Top Sarasota Nature and Wildlife Tours

You will explore the Gulf Coast and the beautiful back bay. We will cruise the crystal clear waters to look for manatees grazing (seasonal) and dolphins playing. At a low tide you can often view wading birds on the exposed grass flats. Bring your day to a perfect end by watching the sun's magnificent reflection on the water as it slowly sinks beyond the horizon. *We have a 6 passenger minimum for our public tours to leave the dock, in the unlikely event that we do not meet that requirement we will do our best to reschedule you or give you a full refund if your trip is unable to go out.*

Immerse yourself in Sarasota's coastal mangrove forests, look out for dolphins and manatees, and practice kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding skills on this immersive, small-group tour. After departing from the Turtle Beach Boat Launch, paddle out on Sarasota Bay and practice with your equipment. Then, head into the mangrove islands of the Jim Neville Preserve for your best chance to see local marine life including dolphins.

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!

Try your luck spotting dolphins in their natural Florida habitat on this group boat tour around Anna Maria Island. And don’t keep your eyes peeled for just dolphins—you’re in with a chance of seeing manatees, eagles, osprey, and more. Whether you’re a Holmes Beach local or you’re just visiting, this is an experience nature-lovers won’t want to miss.

Explore the waters of Anna Maria, Florida with the help of an experienced naturalist for a guide to help you spot manatees in the wild. Paddle your way around the waterways with a local to tell you all about the area’s ecosystem as you sightsee on the water. Stop at Beer Can Island to explore on land too.

Experience a sunset to remember with this kayaking tour alongside local marine wildlife. Paddle next to dolphins and look out for local species of birds nesting on islands as you pass by. Learn all about the behavior and habitat of these animals from your guide as you observe them and soak up the Florida sunset on the water.

Don’t miss out on your chance to spot manatees on your Bradenton trip—book a slot on this tour and walk with a guide who knows all the best locations to maximize your chances so you get a leg up on the other tourists. While you walk, your guide also shares fun facts about the animals and conservation efforts in the area.

Sightsee on the water in a clear kayak that gives you a fresh vantage point in every direction with a local naturalist for a guide on this small group tour. Learn all about the Florida ecosystem from your guide while you keep your eyes peeled for a chance to spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and more from the dry comfort of your kayak.

This tour takes guests through Sarasota Bay, scenic mangrove tunnels, and beautiful sunset locations near the Sarasota bridges and islands. Guests may also see dolphins, pelicans, and other local wildlife during the experience. The tour is led by an experienced professional kayaker and is perfect for couples, families, friends, and adventure seekers looking for a relaxing and memorable experience on the water. Professional photos are included to help guests keep unforgettable memories from their tour.

Discover the beauty of Anna Maria Island on this 2.5-hour Public Sandbar Trip. Cruise through the beautiful local waters to Jewfish Key or another popular sandbar, depending on tides and conditions. Once there, swim, wade in the shallow water, or simply relax and enjoy time with family and friends. Dip nets are provided for guests who want to explore the shallow waters and see what they can find. You’re welcome to bring drinks and a small cooler. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views and keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, rays, sea turtles, and coastal birds. Wildlife sightings are always a bonus and cannot be guaranteed. A fun, laid-back way for all ages to experience Anna Maria Island from the water. 2.5-hour public sandbar trip Swim, float, wade, and relax Visit beautiful local sandbars Family-friendly and great for groups

Ditch the typical Florida boat tour crowds and enjoy a way more personal experience on this private dolphin-spotting experience. Try your luck spotting these beloved aquatic mammals, as well as manatees, with the help of a captain who knows all the best spots on the water—it’s an experience lots of Florida tourists miss out on, but they shouldn’t.

Discover the calm waterways around Siesta Key, just outside of Sarasota, on this small-group excursion. Choose a kayak or stand up paddleboard, whichever you are more comfortable with, for your journey. Then, follow your guide through the Jim Neville Marine Preserve observing mangrove islands and local wildlife while you paddle towards a secret beach.

On this self-guided bicycle tour, you’ll discover how an unlikely cast of characters – from a Fig Newton millionaire, to platform divers who dodged sharks – transformed a barrier island into a beloved community. You’ll encounter the island’s famous “mosquito jail” – a 1927 lockup with barred windows but no glass, where biting insects proved more effective than bars at deterring crime. You’ll pedal past the Roser Memorial Church, built by Charles Roser, who created the Fig Newton cookie and the process to make it then sold his creation Nabisco for a million dollars in 1890 Along the way, you’ll learn about the making of Hollywood’s 1948 film On an Island With You, and explore Bean Point where the island’s first homesteader settled in 1892. You’ll also ride past sites devastated by 2024’s hurricanes and discover how this community of 1,000 residents rallied to rebuild.

Enjoy one of Florida's best beaches at sunset on an electric bike tour. With 5-level pedal assist and an on-demand throttle, the electric bike allows you to put in as much or as little effort as you want as you ride along Siesta Key. All experience levels are welcome. Booking in advance ensures you won't miss out on this small-group tour.

Whether you are a family, group of friends, couples (we have done engagements!) or celebrating a special occasion, we are the best private boat charter on and around Siesta Key! We have been in business 10 years and made incredible memories for the many thousands of guests we have had out. You plan your day! We offer so many fun activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, sandbar and beach hopping, fun fishing, sunsets, dolphin and wildlife watching. Another popular option is lunch at one of the excellent waterfront restaurants between the North end of Sarasota Bay all the way down to Venice. We can help you decide the right one for you. There are also many fun tiki bars to hit by boat! Just let us know what sounds good to you and we will help you make it the perfect day! We are here to answer any questions or help you in the planning.

Increase your chances of spotting manatees and dolphins during an eco-friendly kayak tour of the Lido Key in Sarasota. Ideal for lovers of nature and wildlife, this experience lets you escape the crowds on land and is suitable for both beginner and advanced paddlers. Plus, traveling in a non-motorized vessel means you’re less likely to scare away animals.

Discover the delectable highlights of Sarasota's thriving dining scene on this small-group, evening tasting tour. Meet your guide in central Sarasota, and come with an appetite: you'll visit several local restaurants, and will enjoy enough samples to add up to a meal (alcoholic drinks additional expense). As you go, soak up the convivial atmosphere, and learn more about Sarasota's unique culture and culinary offerings.

A Vortex Tour is an ecotour with a twist! Embrace wellness and restore nature connection with mindful walking tours to the Energy Vortexes of Sarasota. This tour offers a unique blend of guided meditation and intuitive skill-building in the serene environment of Myakka River State Park. Participants will engage in a mindful hike, exploring the landscape while practicing breathing exercises and reflecting on nature. The tour is led by experienced guides who facilitate activities aimed at connecting with the vortex energy. Enjoy forest bathing and exploring metaphysical inquiry. This small-group tour fosters personal growth and connection with nature in a tranquil setting. - Duration: Approximately 2-2.5 hrs, departing in early morning and evening sunsets - Group size is limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience - Suitable for adults and youth, with special rates for children - Includes guided mindfulness exercises, forest bathing, and interpreting the wildlife messages.

This eco-adventure combines the best of Florida's coastal habitats in one unforgettable experience. Paddle through the serene mangrove tunnels of Emerson Point Preserve, cruise across the open waters of Terra Ceia Bay, and stop at shallow sandbars where you can search for sand dollars, sea stars, sea urchins, and shells. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, spotted eagle rays, sea turtles and a variety of native birds while your guide shares fascinating insights into the vital role mangroves play in protecting Florida's coastline and supporting marine life. It's the perfect blend of kayaking, wildlife viewing, and hands-on exploration.

You and your party of up to 6, will experience an unforgettable time on the water, whether you decide on a 2 hour day trip or sunset (sunset times will vary throughout the year), You choose how to make the most of the time. Kick back and relax, enjoying the local sea life up close, many times getting the dolphins to play in our wake. During your charter, you will see gorgeous homes, SeaLife, beautiful scenery and Siesta Keys amazing sunset, if that is the charter you prefer. You will ride in comfort in our 25ft Cobalt deck boat. The boat is equipped with Bluetooth so you can enjoy your own playlist. We will bring the bottled water and light snacks like PB crackers and granola bars... but feel free to bring anything else fun to eat or drink! We depart from Siesta Key, making it convenient for tourists and locals alike! After 10 years in business, we know how to show you the BEST time on the water!

The open water near Sarasota is home to pods of dolphins and manatees—if you know where to find them and can reach them. With this private boat cruise, head out from the North Siesta Key Bridge to search for wildlife while getting comfortable on board. Stop at a sandbar or beach for swimming, sliding, and paddle boarding, and optionally visit a tiki bar and restaurant before returning to shore.

What makes this experience special is the chance to ride a horse directly through the shallow coastal waters of Florida while surrounded by a natural marine habitat. Instead of a traditional trail ride, you’ll experience the coastline from the water, with the possibility of spotting dolphins, manatees, stingrays, and other local wildlife along the way. The guides also share insight into the horses and the surrounding environment, making the experience feel more personal and connected to the area rather than simply being a scenic ride.

Ideal for marine wildlife lovers vacationing in Bradenton and the wider Sarasota area, this private boat tour shows you a whole new side of Florida. The route is planned specifically to make your chances of spotting dolphins as high as possible, and the whole experience is family-friendly. The boat even has a big bow bimini, which gives you and the kids protection from the sun.

Explore the serene waters of Clam Bayou on our clear kayak tours, perfect for adventurers of all skill levels. Paddle beneath a stunning canopy of mangroves with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy the possibility of spotting manatees, dolphins, and birds such as herons and egrets in their natural habitat. Take in the scenic beauty just minutes from downtown St. Pete while learning about the local ecosystem. All gear is provided, including transparent kayaks, life jackets, and paddles. The calm waters are ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers, offering a unique opportunity to see marine life through the transparent kayak hull. Kayak Info: Our clear tandem (2-seat) kayaks have a 385 lb combined weight limit to ensure proper weight distribution and safety. Solo use is available for guests over the limit or for odd-numbered groups—please contact the supplier after booking. Solo riders must not exceed 325 lb for safety and balance.