Fort Myers Beach offers some of Florida’s most accessible and scenic paddling experiences. Known for its calm waters, abundant wildlife, and stunning sunsets, this area is perfect for paddling enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re gliding through mangroves, watching dolphins dance around your kayak, or catching a fiery sunset, the options here provide both excitement and relaxation. The variety of tours means there’s something for all—from quick, family-friendly trips to immersive eco adventures. For those interested in exploring the local waters with a knowledgeable guide, there are several excellent choices to consider.
If you want a memorable evening watching the sunset from your kayak, the Fort Myers: Guided Sunset Kayaking Tour through Pelican Bay offers a 3-hour trip packed with wildlife viewing and scenic views. For a shorter, more casual outing, the Guided Kayak or SUP Tour in Pelican Bay provides a quick hour of peaceful paddling with wildlife encounters. Eco-minded travelers will appreciate the Eco Tour in Pelican Bay, which focuses on exploring mangroves and shallow waters. Lastly, the Standup Paddleboarding or Kayaking Tour combines fun with education, perfect for those wanting a guided introduction to paddling in Fort Myers.
Below, we break down each of these top choices to help you decide which paddling adventure suits your style, schedule, and interests.
1. Fort Myers: Guided Sunset Kayaking Tour through Pelican Bay
This sunset kayaking tour takes you through Pelican Bay, where the water is calm and the scenery is stunning. During the 3-hour trip, you’ll paddle alongside dolphins, manatees, and turtles while witnessing the sky change colors. The guide, with their extensive knowledge, makes this tour both relaxing and informative. Participants rave about the guide’s friendly, easy-going style—”the 3 hours flew by,” one reviewer said, describing seeing mangroves, seer stars, and dolphins up close.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to savor the sunset from the best seat in the house. Watching the fiery sky reflect off the water as dolphins frolic nearby creates a memorable moment. The tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic paddle with wildlife sightings included. The $75 price includes all gear, and the trip is rated 5/5 based on 12 reviews, highlighting its popularity and quality.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for nature lovers who want an immersive, tranquil paddling experience with stunning sunset views and wildlife encounters.
2. Fort Myers: Guided Standup Paddleboarding or Kayaking Tour
This 2-hour guided tour combines the fun of standup paddleboarding with the serenity of kayaking. The tour takes place in calm waters, ideal for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Your guide, Seth, shares interesting facts about local wildlife and the environment while helping you learn or refine your paddling skills.
The tour’s highlights include spotting elusive West Indian manatees, dolphins, and sunbathing turtles. Reviewers love that Seth is both friendly and knowledgeable—”He pointed out everything we missed on our own,” one wrote. The tour costs $65 per person, making it a reasonably priced way to experience Fort Myers’ wild side. Many reviews mention how close the dolphins came to their boards, creating magical moments.
This tour is well-suited for families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a quick, wildlife-focused adventure. It offers excellent value for time and money, especially considering the chance to see dolphins up close and paddle through mangrove tunnels.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a guided, wildlife-rich paddle in a short time, with plenty of chances to see dolphins and manatees.
3. Fort Myers: Guided Kayaking Eco Tour in Pelican Bay
This 3-hour eco tour offers a deeper dive into the region’s natural environment. You’ll paddle through mangroves and shallow bays, discovering the ecosystems that make Southwest Florida special. The tour emphasizes ecotourism and responsible wildlife viewing, making it popular among nature enthusiasts.
Participants can expect to see dolphins, manatees, and turtles, with the guide sharing insights into the local flora and fauna. The tour’s focus on ecology makes it a bit more educational and quieter than sunset trips, ideal for travelers interested in conservation or who simply want a peaceful paddle. The cost is $75 per person, and the reviews praise the experience for its educational value and immersive scenery.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on wildlife and habitat, offering insight into what makes Southwest Florida ecotourism unique. It suits travelers who want to combine paddling with learning and appreciate the quiet beauty of nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers or those seeking a peaceful, wildlife-rich paddle with an educational twist.
4. Fort Myers: Guided Kayak or SUP Tour in Pelican Bay
This one-hour guided tour is ideal for a quick, low-pressure introduction to paddling around Pelican Bay. You can choose between kayak or standup paddleboard, depending on your preference. The tour emphasizes experiencing the calm waterways and mangroves while encountering local wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and turtles.
Rated 4.3/5 from four reviews, this tour is praised for its peaceful setting and friendly guides. It’s priced at just $60 per person, making it the most affordable option on our list. The short duration makes it suitable for families or travelers with limited time, and it provides a gentle, guided way to enjoy the area’s natural sights without a long commitment.
While it’s a brief experience, it captures the essence of Fort Myers’ tranquil waterways and offers plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s a good choice if you want a quick introduction or have a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: An excellent quick paddle for beginners or those on a tight schedule seeking a peaceful wildlife encounter.
How to Choose Your Perfect Paddling Experience in Fort Myers Beach
Selecting the right tour depends on your budget, available time, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a romantic sunset with plenty of wildlife, the Sunset Kayaking Tour is unbeatable. For a short, wildlife-focused outing, the Paddle or SUP Tour offers great value. Those interested in ecology and natural habitats will find the Eco Tour ideal. Lastly, if time is tight but you still want a guided introduction to the waterways, the Pelican Bay Tour provides a relaxed, scenic paddle.
Remember to book early, especially in peak season. Think about whether you prefer a longer, immersive experience or a quick trip. Each tour provides a different glimpse into the stunning waters of Fort Myers Beach.
To sum it up, Fort Myers Beach offers a variety of paddle adventures that cater to different interests and schedules. For a truly memorable sunset, the Guided Sunset Kayaking Tour stands out. If wildlife is your priority, the Eco Tour or the Guided Wildlife Tour are excellent choices. Finally, for a quick, introductory paddle, the Pelican Bay tour provides a peaceful taste of local waterways. Whichever you choose, early booking will ensure you secure the best times and avoid missing out on these popular experiences.