Kayaking and Canoeing in Jacksonville

Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour at Lido Key

Why haven't we done this before?

After jogging around Lido for a spell because of GPS guidance we finally found the pick up spot for our kayak tour. We hired a guide, Skyler, who was fantastic. He's an adventurer (base jumper!) and a recent arrival to Sarasota but knew the waters, animals and terrain very well. Evidently, he and his wife own the company. We got two paddleboards for my daughter and her husband and a kayak each for me and and my wife. Skyler guided us through the 2 hour trip pointing out black tree crabs, fish and birds along the way. Unfortunately, no manatees that day but they're often seen. I haven't been on a kayak for years but it's easy to get used to. My wife struggled a little bumping into roots and trees but she managed. You navigate through a series of mangrove tunnels and some open water bays. The wind on the bays made paddling a little challenging but everyone kept up. We learned a lot about flying fish, mangroves and cormorants that day. My wife and I have lived in Sarasota for 11 years and I don't know why it took us this long to experience this local gem.

Amelia Full Moon Paddle at Talbot Islands State Park

Do not miss

Outstanding, highly recommended, beautiful, relaxing, peaceful, serene, gorgeous. Webb was a great guide!

Amelia Sunset Paddle at Talbot Islands State Park

Just do it

Great experience, beautiful views, Buddy and Denise are very friendly