Top St Petersburg Wildlife Watching in 2026

Look for dolphins around Boca Ciega Bay in St. Pete Beach on a cruise in the Tampa Bay Area. Continue into the Gulf of Mexico to visit Shell Key island, a wildlife preserve where you can snorkel, swim, or collect shells on the beach. Depending on the season, you might spot dolphins, manatees, rays, and a variety of seabirds. This family-friendly tour offers both a late morning and afternoon departure, making it easy to suit your schedule.

Discover St. Petersburg's undeveloped Shell Key Preserve on this exciting kayak excursion. Join a small group and gear up for your adventure through mangrove tunnels and shallow seagrass meadows. While you paddle, observe local wildlife like sea turtles and seabirds and stop at Shell Island to collect seashells or go for a swim.

Get out on the water and see Tampa Bay from a new perspective with this kayaking tour. Ride in a clear kayak—which has the advantage of greater visibility of the underwater world. Along the way look out for coastal birds, marine life, and the beautiful mangroves. No need to worry about missing out on photo opportunities—the trip includes photo stops and a break at Shell Key to enjoy its beach and sandbars.

Get out on the water and look for dolphins and other wildlife with this nature boat cruise. Make your way to Madeira Beach to board “The Big Blue Boat,” the largest and most stable dolphin watching boat in the Tampa Bay area, then cruise out in search of dolphins, manatees, sea birds, and more, with full narration along the way.

Shell Key Preserve is only accessible by water, and if you don’t own a boat, it can be hard to get to the area to explore it. This Shell Key Preserve Snorkeling Cruise from Tampa takes you to the 1,800-acre (728-hectare) wildlife preserve to snorkel and look for shells and wildlife. Some of the wildlife you may see along your journey, includes dolphins, birds, manatees, hermits crabs, fish, and horseshoe crabs.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to exercise or a visitor who wants to discover Florida’s waterways, this private kayaking adventure in Tierra Verde is customizable to your desires. This experience includes all of the gear you need, including ocean kayaks, paddles, a safety vest, dry bags, and more. They’ll help you put together a unique tour through the local mangrove tunnels where you can spot plenty of aquatic and aviary wildlife.

Go snorkeling around Egmont Key and look for dolphins and other wildlife on this half-day boat tour from Madeira Beach with a small group. Learn about the history of Egmont Key and look for wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and turtles on the boat ride, then go snorkeling with the provided gear. Options include the ruins for more advanced snorkelers and the grass flats for beginner.

Spend some time out on the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy the beauty and wildlife of the area when you book this private boat tour. Watch dolphins play in their natural habitat as well as the chance to spot manatees, rays, and seabirds. Cruise through picturesque waters, exploring beautiful homes, wildlife preserves, and occasional sandbar parties. Your tour can also be tailored to include snorkeling, swimming, or beachcombing at nearby preserves.

Discover downtown St. Petersburg as the sun rises, illuminating the city in soft hues. This 90-minute guided tour takes you through iconic spots like the St. Pete Pier and Beach Drive in a luxury electric vehicle designed for six guests. Enjoy a laid-back pace with light narration, uncovering local stories, history, and insider details. A stop at Black Crow Coffee Co. adds a delightful touch, with the option to pre-purchase your coffee. Perfect for first-time visitors or locals seeking a unique perspective, this intimate tour ensures a personal and unhurried experience. - 90-minute guided tour in a luxury 6-passenger electric vehicle - Explore iconic landmarks like the Dalí Museum and Vinoy Park - Enjoy a stop at Black Crow Coffee Co. for a local coffee experience - A maximum of six guests for a personal and relaxed atmosphere