Coastal Wildlife Kayak Tour

Happy Paddler is the only kayak outfitter with private launch access to the beautiful waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, avoiding crowded public boat ramps. This gives you a relaxing start to the adventure and more time to enjoy any wildlife you encounter. Happy Paddler always limits tours to groups of 12 or less, allowing you to enjoy more time to explore and much better opportunities for manatee and dolphin encounters. Larger groups can be accommodated. Our expert naturalist guides will lead you through shallow coastal waters, mangrove shorelines and islands while looking for manatees, dolphins, rays, sea turtles and coastal birds. Wildlife sightings vary, but opportunities are outstanding year-round and our guides know exactly where to look. This excursion is perfect for families, couples, groups, and individuals with any level of paddling experience. For visitors to Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key looking for the best wildlife adventure, this is it!

Epic wildlife viewing, pristine white sand beaches, tranquil sandbars, and lifelong memories await on the award-winning Coastal Wildlife Kayak Tour! Manatees, dolphins, birds, and abundant marine life highlight this relaxed adventure. After a quick paddling lesson and safety briefing, we’ll set out on the calm waters of Bishop’s Bayou, paddling through historic Longbeach Village and past beautiful waterfront homes while watching for wildlife. We'll make our way into Sarasota Bay and the spectacular clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. This special area is a major wildlife gathering spot where manatees, dolphins, and other marine animals regularly move between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. Along the way, we’ll have several beautiful spots to get out and stretch our legs. After soaking up the "coastal life," we'll paddle back to rinse and refresh after an awesome adventure! Solo guest or odd-numbered group? We’ll provide single kayaks as needed. Just let us know how many single vs. tandem boats your group prefers by leaving a note in the Special Requests section during booking. Please call with any questions or other special requests.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.