St Petersburg, Florida, isn’t just about the sun and sandy beaches; it’s also a gateway to some spectacular natural areas that are perfect for exploring on a tour. Unlike some busy tourist hotspots, this region offers a handful of well-organized, nature-focused excursions that let you get up close and personal with wildlife, mangroves, and barrier islands. Whether you prefer paddling in a kayak, cruising by boat, or biking through lush preserves, these tours give a genuine taste of the area’s untouched beauty—all within a short drive from the city.
What makes these tours stand out is their focus on small groups, expert guides, and unique experiences, like shelling on pristine islands or paddling through mangrove tunnels. You won’t find cookie-cutter sightseeing here—each adventure is designed to connect you with local ecosystems and wildlife. If you’re into wildlife spotting, eco-educational experiences, or just want to find a peaceful spot where nature still rules, this list has something for you.
1. Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve
At number 1, the Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve offers an immersive way to explore this protected 1800-acre nature preserve. This tour is perfect for those who want to paddle through mangrove tunnels, shallow seagrass meadows, and visit Shell Island, a prime spot for shell collecting or a refreshing swim. All kayaking equipment and instruction are included, making it accessible even if you’re new to paddling.
What makes this tour special is the small group size—usually no more than a few people—ensuring you get personalized attention from guides who share fun facts about the local wildlife, including sea turtles and seabirds. The highlight is the chance to soak up the Florida sun while paddling, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery or walk on Shell Island. Plus, the reviews are glowing: travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, the chance to see manatees and dolphins, and the fun shelling experience led by guide Taylor.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, educational, and wildlife-rich outing. It’s a three-hour trip that balances adventure with comfort, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The only downside might be the need to book in advance during peak season to secure a spot.
Bottom Line: A superb, small-group paddling experience with wildlife, shelling, and expert guides—perfect for nature lovers who appreciate a personal touch.
2. Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John’s Pass
For around $45, the Three Hour Shelling Cruise from Johns Pass combines a relaxing boat ride with time on Shell Key for shelling and swimming. Starting at Hubbard’s Marina, this tour takes you on a gentle 3-hour trip through calm back bay waters, where wildlife like dolphins, seabirds, manatees and others are often seen.
What sets this cruise apart is the combination of sightseeing and leisure. The boat, the HUB Cat 49, provides a comfortable platform to view the scenery while the crew shares local stories and wildlife facts. The best part is the hour spent on Shell Island, where you can walk the soft white sands, search for shells, or go for a quick dip. The return cruise may include views of gulf beaches when weather permits, adding to the scenic experience.
The reviews emphasize the fun, relaxed atmosphere, with travelers noting dolphin sightings and friendly crew members like Captain Michael and first mate Morgan. It’s a good pick for families or travelers wanting an easy, no-fuss outing with plenty of wildlife sightings and shelling.
Bottom Line: An affordable and relaxing boat cruise that combines wildlife viewing with shelling and swimming opportunities, ideal for all ages.
3. Guided Kayak EcoTour of Beautiful Shell Key Preserve
At number 3, the Guided Kayak EcoTour of Shell Key Preserve offers a deeper dive into the ecosystems of this large, undeveloped barrier island. This three-hour guided paddle takes you through mangrove tunnels, seagrass flats, and around shell-strewn beaches, with stops at Shell Key Shoal for swimming and shell collecting. The tour is led by an informative guide, and all equipment, including waterproof bags for your camera, is included.
One of the tour’s unique features is paddling where dolphins and manatees frequently swim, giving you plenty of chances for wildlife encounters. The focus is on eco-awareness and understanding the area’s natural habitat, making it ideal for those who love nature and want to get a close-up view of Florida’s coastal ecosystems. The 1-hour paddling to the island is complemented by time to explore and enjoy the scenery.
Reviewers particularly enjoy guides like Nick, who share their knowledge about the flora and fauna. The tour suits active travelers comfortable with paddling and those eager to learn about local wildlife. The experience balances physical activity with educational value, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: An educational paddling experience that offers plenty of wildlife sightings and the chance to collect shells and enjoy the beach, suited for active eco-enthusiasts.
4. Saint Petersburg Preserve Bike Tour
Next up is the Saint Petersburg Preserve Bike Tour, a two-hour ride through Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. For just $65, this tour takes you on a 3.1-mile journey over trails, boardwalks, and meadows, giving an up-close look at the diverse ecosystems of the area.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see all kinds of birds, mammals, and butterflies, including alligators, cormorants, and ospreys. The guide also shares insights about the preserve’s history and residents, enriching the experience beyond just scenery. This tour is limited to eight people, ensuring plenty of personal attention and a relaxed pace that suits most fitness levels.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to explore five different ecosystems in a short time, all without breaking a sweat. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, with one noting how the bikes allowed them to see so much more than they could on foot. It’s a great way to combine exercise with education and wildlife watching.
Bottom Line: A compact, informative bike tour perfect for those who want a physical activity that doubles as a nature lesson.
5. Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area
If you want to see Tampa Bay from a different perspective, the Clear Kayak Tour is hard to beat. For $89, you paddle in see-through kayaks, giving you an unobstructed view of the underwater world as you glide over mangroves and shallows. This 2-hour tour includes stops at Shell Key, where you can collect shells and enjoy the beach.
What makes this tour stand out is the visual experience—being able to see fish, crabs, and even manatees beneath your kayak is mesmerizing. The guides also take photos for you and provide ample time for wildlife watching, including pink Roseate Spoonbills and pelicans. The tour is designed for those seeking a photo-friendly and immersive nature experience.
Reviewers mention how Alessia, the guide, was friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip both fun and educational. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with photography or simply prefer a more transparent view of marine life.
Bottom Line: A visually stunning kayak tour that offers excellent wildlife viewing and photo opportunities, perfect for nature lovers and shutterbugs.
6. Kayak Adventure at Shell Key Preserve in Tierra Verde
Finally, the Kayak Adventure in Tierra Verde is a four-hour guided tour accommodating small groups of eight. It takes place at the Shell Key Preserve, where you’ll paddle through mangroves, around islands, and search for wildlife like sea birds and fish.
This tour is geared toward outdoor enthusiasts and serious nature lovers who want an extended, immersive experience. All necessary gear—kayak, paddle, dry bag, Bluetooth speakers—is provided, and the small group size ensures a more personal connection with your guide. Since it’s a longer outing, it’s best suited for those comfortable with paddling for several hours.
The tour’s highlight is exploring the waters and islands of Shell Key Preserve, with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s expertise and the chance to experience more remote parts of the preserve. It’s a great choice for those looking for a full-day adventure in nature.
Bottom Line: A longer, more comprehensive kayaking experience ideal for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore the preserve in depth.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best National Park Tour in St Petersburg depends on your interests, fitness level, and the kind of experience you seek. If wildlife viewing and a relaxed pace are your priority, the Small Group Kayak Tour or the Clear Kayak Tour are excellent options. For families or those wanting a mix of sightseeing and shelling, the Shelling Cruise from Johns Pass offers a gentle boat ride combined with beach time.
For active travelers keen on biking, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Bike Tour provides a way to see diverse ecosystems without much physical exertion. Meanwhile, the Kayak Adventure in Tierra Verde suits those looking for an extended, immersive paddling experience.
Remember to book early during peak seasons and consider your fitness level, as some tours involve significant paddling or biking. Also, check the weather forecast—on windy days, a calmer boat cruise or a shorter tour might be more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
St Petersburg offers a surprising range of nature-based tours that appeal to different interests. For a peaceful paddle with wildlife, the Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve is hard to beat. If you prefer boat-based relaxation with fun shelling, the Shelling Cruise from Johns Pass is a solid choice. Those wanting to explore ecosystems more actively will find the Guided EcoTour and the Bike Tour particularly rewarding.
No matter your preference, these tours provide a chance to experience a different side of St Petersburg—away from the beaches but just as awe-inspiring. To make the most of your visit, consider booking your preferred tour early, especially during the busy spring and summer months, and gear up for some memorable outdoor adventures.