The 10 Best Canoe & Kayak Experiences in St Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a prime spot for paddling adventures. With its calm bays, lush mangrove tunnels, and abundant wildlife, it’s a paradise for kayakers and canoe enthusiasts. Unlike crowded beaches, here you get to glide through protected waters where dolphins, manatees, and seabirds often make an appearance. Plus, with the region’s warm climate, your paddling outing can be a comfortable, sun-soaked experience any time of year.
What really makes St. Petersburg stand out are the variety of tours available—ranging from small-group eco-tours to private expeditions, and from daytime explorations to glow-in-the-dark paddling. Whether you’re after a relaxed scenic glide or an engaging wildlife encounter, there’s something for every skill level and interest. And with detailed descriptions and reviews, this guide will help you choose the perfect paddle for your trip.
1. Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve
Rating: 5.0/5 (489 reviews)
Price: $79.00 per person
Duration: 3 hours (approx.)
This tour stands out for its small group setup—ensuring personalized attention from your guide as you explore the Shell Key Preserve, an 1800-acre protected area at Tampa Bay’s mouth. You’ll paddle through mangrove tunnels and seagrass meadows, with frequent sightings of sea turtles, seabirds, and dolphins. The trip includes an island stop at Shell Island, where you can collect seashells or take a swim—perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.
What makes this experience particularly appealing are the all-inclusive gear and instruction, making it accessible even for beginners. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, with one reviewer noting, “Taylor was an amazing kayak guide,” and another highlighting the shelling experience as “the best they’ve had.” It’s ideal for families or small groups seeking a more intimate connection with nature, combined with the chance to see Florida’s wildlife up close.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a guided, small-group experience with wildlife, shells, and swimming thrown in. The $79 price offers good value considering the personalized attention and all gear provided.
2. Guided Kayak EcoTour of Beautiful Shell Key Preserve
Rating: 5.0/5 (81 reviews)
Price: $48.00 per person
Duration: 3 hours (approx.)
At number 2, this eco-tour immerses you in Shell Key’s untouched ecosystems. The tour kicks off with exploring Shell Key Shoal’s beaches, where you can swim, wade, or gather shells. Then, your group paddles around mangrove islands and seagrass flats, often spotting dolphins and manatees along the way. The water clarity makes it a favorite for nature lovers who want to see beneath their kayak, thanks to the double kayak setup.
The guide, Nick, is noted for being informative and personable, sharing knowledge about the flora and fauna. Reviewers mention how the trip combines good exercise with wildlife encounters, like dolphins swimming nearby. It’s a good choice for those who want a mix of adventure and education, with the added thrill of paddleboarding and swimming.
Bottom line: For around $48, this eco-tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, shell collecting, and paddling, making it ideal for active travelers wanting an educational outdoor experience.
3. Exclusive Kayak Expedition: Exploring the Mangroves to Shell Key
Rating: 5.0/5 (56 reviews)
Price: $38.25 per person
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
This private kayak expedition is perfect for those who want a tailored experience. You can choose your start point or opt for kayak delivery, giving maximum flexibility. The route is customized to your interests—whether you want to focus on mangrove tunnels, hidden coves, or wildlife spotting. It’s led by guides with over 25 years of birding and ecological experience, ensuring a rich and informative adventure.
What makes this trip stand out is the personalized approach and the ability to explore at your own pace. Guests rave about the secluded beaches and wildlife sightings, including herons, dolphins, and sea stars. Many reviewers praise the guide’s local insights and friendliness, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Bottom line: The best pick for travelers who want a private, flexible kayak trip with expert guidance in a less crowded setting, at a very competitive price.
4. Kayak Tour at Gandy Beach Mangroves with Capt Yak
Rating: 5.0/5 (55 reviews)
Price: $52.00 per person
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Led by Captain Yak, an ecology researcher with nearly 30 years of experience, this tour offers a deep dive into Shell Key’s ecosystems. You’ll paddle through mangrove tunnels and over sandbars, with plenty of opportunities to spot stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and dolphins. Captain Yak shares stories and facts about the environment, making it as educational as it is fun.
The tour offers flexibility with single or tandem kayaks and is praised for its informative narration. Reviewers mention how the guiding style makes it accessible for all ages and skill levels. The route is carefully designed to be easy and enjoyable, with a focus on wildlife encounters and ecosystem learning.
Bottom line: This tour suits nature enthusiasts wanting a guided experience with a seasoned expert, offering good value at $52 per person.
5. Saint Petersburg Paddle Board Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (54 reviews)
Price: $65.00 per person
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
This paddle board tour takes you through the bayou and past Snell Isles, with commentary on local flora and fauna. All equipment is provided, so no need to bring your own or worry about TSA. The focus is on learning and enjoying—with a basic tutorial before heading out. Stops at Bird Island and manatee hotspots give you chances to observe Florida’s iconic wildlife.
Reviewers appreciate Louisa’s knowledgeable guiding style and the relaxed pace, making it suitable for beginners or those wanting a low-stress outing. The inclusion of all gear and wildlife highlights make the $65 price point competitive.
Bottom line: Ideal for paddleboarders looking for a relaxed tour with wildlife views and easy instruction, especially if you prefer a small-group experience.
6. Small-Group Clear Kayak Tour in Shell Key
Rating: 4.5/5 (166 reviews)
Price: $69.00 per person
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
If seeing what’s beneath you sounds appealing, this small-group clear kayak tour is a great choice. You paddle in glassy, transparent kayaks through Shell Key Preserve’s waters, with wildlife like dolphins, rays, and manatees often spotted underneath. The intimate group size adds a personal touch, with guides sharing knowledge about the marine environment.
Guests praise the friendly guide Reina and the ability to see marine life directly through the kayak’s bottom. The tour also includes parking in Tierra Verde, making it convenient. Reviewers note that even with weather hiccups, the overall experience remains memorable.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a unique, visually engaging kayak experience with expert guidance and wildlife viewing.
7. Clear Kayak Glow Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (13 reviews)
Price: $65.00 per person
Duration: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.)
This glow-in-the-dark kayak tour along Treasure Island’s canals offers a magical evening. As the sun sets, your double kayaks equipped with LED lights make everything glow, from the houses lining the water to the wildlife beneath. It’s a relaxed paddle with an emphasis on fun and visual spectacle.
Reviewers mention the chill vibe and how the glowing kayaks add a fun twist to a calm, scenic paddle. It’s less about wildlife and more about enjoying the atmosphere and the view, making it suitable for families or couples looking for a memorable night out.
Bottom line: A fun, easygoing option for an evening paddle that combines visual effects with the calm of Florida’s waterways.
8. Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area
Rating: 5.0/5 (5,071 reviews)
Price: $89.00 per person
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
This highly-rated tour offers up-close views of Tampa Bay’s marine life in a crystal-clear kayak. Beginning at Shell Key, you’ll paddle through mangroves, shallow waters, and sandbars—spotting manatees, roseate spoonbills, and dolphins. The trip includes photo stops and time at Shell Key beach, where you can relax or collect shells.
What elevates this tour is its extensive positive reviews and the ability to see underwater life without getting wet. It’s a great fit for those wanting a fuller perspective of Tampa Bay’s ecosystem with the comfort of guided support.
Bottom line: For a premium experience with excellent wildlife sightings and photo opportunities, this tour offers top value at $89.
9. Glass Bottom Kayak Mangrove & Sandbar Adventure in St. Pete Beach
Rating: 4.0/5 (50 reviews)
Price: $62.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
Spending time on Florida’s waters to see sea life in action becomes even more engaging with this glass bottom kayak rental. You’ll paddle through Buccaneer Island and John’s Pass Islands, exploring mangrove tunnels and searching for wildlife like herons, fish, and rays. The longer duration makes it suitable for a leisurely exploration.
Reviewers mention the fabulous experience and Logan’s friendly guidance. The beach chairs provided allow for a break if you want to fish or relax on the sandbars.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a longer, relaxed kayak outing with underwater visibility and a mix of mangrove exploration.
10. Kayak Adventure at Shell Key Preserve in Tierra Verde
Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews)
Price: $75.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
This guided kayak adventure is perfect for those seeking an in-depth experience. Launching from Tierra Verde, you’ll explore waters and islands of Shell Key Preserve, keeping an eye out for sea birds and marine life. The tour includes all necessary gear, with a small group of just eight people ensuring a personal touch.
Ideal for dedicated wildlife watchers and outdoor enthusiasts, this experience emphasizes nature immersion. The tour’s longer duration and focus on wildlife spotting make it a comprehensive choice for serious paddlers.
Bottom line: For those wanting a longer, wildlife-focused trip with minimal crowds, this is a strong option, especially if you’re comfortable with a four-hour commitment.
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in St Petersburg
When selecting a kayak or canoe tour, consider your budget, skill level, and interests. For a guided experience with wildlife and shells, the Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve offers excellent value. Want a private, customizable trip? The Exclusive Kayak Expedition fits the bill. For those seeking visual excitement, the Clear Kayak Glow Tour makes nighttime paddling magical.
Budget-minded travelers might prefer the Guided Kayak EcoTour at $48, while wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the Clear Kayak Tour of Tampa Bay, which boasts over 5,000 reviews. Consider also the duration and location—longer trips are better for dedicated explorers, while shorter tours suit those with limited time or wanting a quick adventure.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure the best times and spots. Check for weather conditions and skill requirements—most tours are beginner-friendly but check if you need to bring your own gear or prepare for physical activity.
Final Thoughts
St. Petersburg offers a fantastic mix of kayaking adventures that let you see Florida’s coastal ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and scenic waterscapes. From calm, guided eco-tours to glow-in-the-dark night paddles, there’s an option for every paddler. If wildlife viewing tops your list, the Small Group Kayak Tour or the Clear Kayak of Tampa Bay are excellent choices. For those craving a private, flexible experience, the Exclusive Kayak Expedition is hard to beat.
No matter which tour you pick, early booking and clear expectations will help you make the most of your time on the water. Now, all that’s left is to decide which adventure suits your style—and get paddling.