Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour From Virginia Key

Manatee season is upon us, and Virginia Key offers a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close. The guided paddle tour provides a chance to explore the serene waters, take in the local wildlife, and create unforgettable memories. With expert guidance, safety gear, and a choice between paddle boards or kayaks, this tour promises an engaging outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, the Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour may be the perfect addition to your itinerary.

Key Points

• Explore Virginia Key and Miami waters on a guided paddle tour to observe manatees, rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 95% traveler recommendation.
• Paddle board or kayak rental, safety gear, and knowledgeable guide are included in the $80 per person cost for a maximum group size of 28.
• Meeting point is at Virginia Key Beach Park with ample parking, and the tour starts and ends at the same location.
• Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
• The tour offers a scenic and relaxed experience with close encounters with manatees and local wildlife, though some find it overpriced.

Tour Overview

The "Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour" offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the waters of Virginia Key, Miami, and observe the majestic manatees in their natural habitat.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars, the tour provides a 95% traveler recommendation and is priced at $80 per person.

With a maximum group size of 28, the experience includes a paddle board or kayak rental, safety gear, and a knowledgeable guide.

The tour meets at the Virginia Key Beach Park, with ample parking available.

While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate activity level makes it suitable for most travelers, excluding those with certain medical conditions.

Inclusions

The Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities to enhance the experience. Participants will receive a paddle board or kayak rental, along with paddles and US Coast Guard approved life jackets. To keep valuables dry, a waterproof bag for phone, wallet, and car keys is provided. Before setting out, guests receive paddle instruction and a safety briefing from a licensed tour guide. These thoughtful inclusions ensure a comfortable, safe, and worry-free outing as guests explore the tranquil waters of Virginia Key in search of manatees and local wildlife.

Inclusions	Details
Paddle board or kayak rental	–
Paddles and life jackets	US Coast Guard approved
Waterproof bag	For phone, wallet, car keys
Paddle instruction	From licensed tour guide
Safety briefing	–

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour is located at 3801 Arthur Lamb Jr Rd, Miami, FL 33149, USA, within the Virginia Key Beach Park.

Travelers should follow the signs for the kayak and paddleboard rentals, where there’s ample parking available.

The tour starts and ends at this meeting point. To get there, participants can:

1. Enter Virginia Key Beach Park
2. Follow the signs for kayak and paddleboard rentals
3. Park in the designated areas
4. Meet the guide at the rental location

The tour provides a convenient and accessible starting point for the guided paddle excursion.

Activity Restrictions

Although the Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour is suitable for most travelers, there are some activity restrictions to be aware of. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. It’s also not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. A moderate level of physical fitness is required. To help visualize the restrictions, here’s a table:

Restriction	Yes	No	N/A
Wheelchair Accessible		X
Service Animals Allowed	X
Recommended for Back Problems		X

Reasons to Join the Tour

With an opportunity to observe manatees in their natural habitat and admire the stunning Miami skyline from the water, the Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour provides a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.

The tour offers:

1. Close encounters with the gentle, slow-moving manatees, providing a rare glimpse into their world.
2. Informative and engaging commentary from licensed guides, sharing insights about the local wildlife and ecosystem.
3. A chance to explore the serene waters of Virginia Key Beach Park, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
4. An affordable way to try out paddleboarding or kayaking with all necessary equipment provided.

What to Expect During the Tour

Participants begin the tour by meeting at the designated location, the kayak and paddleboard rental area within Virginia Key Beach Park.

After a safety briefing and paddle instruction, the group embarks on their journey. The tour guides lead the way, sharing insights about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

As the tour progresses, participants may spot manatees, exotic birds, and other marine life in their natural habitats. The calm waters and scenic views of the Miami skyline provide a serene backdrop for the experience.

At the end, the group returns to the starting point, having enjoyed a memorable encounter with nature.

Customer Experiences

How do travelers generally feel about the Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour? Overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.9-star rating based on 19 reviews.

Travelers:

1. Enjoyed close encounters with manatees and local wildlife
2. Praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness
3. Appreciated the tour’s scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere
4. Described it as a unique way to see the Miami skyline from the water

However, some travelers felt the tour was overpriced and suggested renting kayaks independently for better value.

A few also mentioned issues with the waterproof containers provided. The tour offers a memorable kayaking experience with opportunities to observe manatees and learn about the local environment.

Planning Your Visit

Where can travelers find the meeting point for the Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour? The tour departs from Virginia Key Beach Park, located at 3801 Arthur Lamb Jr Rd, Miami, FL 33149.

Travelers should follow signs for the kayak and paddleboard rentals, where ample parking is available. The tour begins and ends at this central meeting point.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check-in, get fitted for life jackets, and receive a safety briefing.

Participants should wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and sturdy water shoes. Bringing a waterproof pouch for personal items is recommended.

The guided tour typically lasts 2-3 hours, returning to the starting location.

Sum Up

Set out on a captivating Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour from Virginia Key and witness the enchanting marine life up close. With top-notch gear, expert guidance, and breathtaking scenery, this adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to create lasting memories. Don’t miss your chance to paddle through the serene waters and encounter the gentle giants of the sea. Book your spot today for an unforgettable outdoor experience.