Top Sarasota Wildlife Watching

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.

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.

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!

Soar over the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico in a parasail on this exciting excursion in Sarasota. Join a small group and board your vessel to sail out towards Anna Maria Island. Then, gear up and begin your flight above the island and the Gulf, taking in the surrounding sights from a bird's-eye view.

This lesson provides everything beginners need to go parasailing above Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria Island: all parasailing equipment, safety instructions, and a motorboat with an experienced crew. Meet at the Bradenton Beach Marina, get harnessed up, and parasail in groups of two or three, soaring up to 400 feet (120 meters) in the air—the highest allowed locally.

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.

See Florida’s Anna Maria Island from a different perspective as you soar above in a parasail. Join a small group and set sail from the marina for the perfect location to begin your flight. Then, gear up and feel the wind beneath you as you soar high above the water, taking in the panoramic views.

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

Spend half a day out on the water with this customizable, private boat charter. Choose a departure time that works best for you, make your own way to the start point, and then hop aboard your 25-foot (8-meter) private vessel. On this excursion, you can look out for dolphins and other marine life, stop at a sandbar for sunbathing and relaxing, cool off during a swim, and more—it's all up to you.

Discover the best of Sarasota, Florida as you embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. Climb aboard your air-conditioned vehicle and see several points of interest including the Ringling Museum and College, Selby Library, and the Sarasota Opera House. While you ride, learn about the vibrant history and culture of the city from your guide.