Top Sarasota On the Water

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.

With this small-group tour, get on the water and kayak along Sarasota Bay to the world-famous Lido Key mangrove tunnels. After a detailed paddle and kayak operation lesson, venture into the open water. Search for wildlife encounters with manatees, dolphins, stingrays, eagles, and other animals before kayaking through clear water under the protective canopy of mangrove forests.

Glide through the water in an illuminated glass-bottom kayak on a private nighttime tour of Sarasota. Learn about Sarasota’s coastal ecosystem as you paddle over mangroves and grass flats, viewing marine life such as dolphins and manatees. Plus, exploring with your own personal guide means you’ll enjoy undivided attention.

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.*

Discover a side of Florida most tourists will never see on this guided nighttime kayaking tour around the waters of Anna Maria Island. The LED lights fitted to the bottom of these transparent kayaks light up the dark waters and let you see the world hidden below. A guide is on hand to make sure everyone is safe and having fun.

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.

Everyone has kayaked during the day—but at night, it’s a whole new experience. Your easy-to-maneuver kayaks are equipped with powerful LED lights that illuminate the water beneath you, allowing you to see underwater sea life in a whole new light (pun intended). This family-operated tour offers the perfect balance of serenity and adventure as you paddle through Sarasota’s beautiful waterways while searching for marine life below. With the water glowing beneath your kayak, you may spot fish, crabs, stingrays, and other fascinating sea creatures. No two tours are ever the same, making every trip a unique experience. Come discover Sarasota’s nightlife - on the water.

We are the only paddling outfitter with kayak access to this spectacular area in the clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, which means no crowds and more exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities! Wildlife-viewing here is outstanding! Our expert naturalist guides set the gold standard for hospitality in our beautiful corner of the world and are always very respectful of any wildlife encountered on the tour. While larger groups can easily be accommodated upon request, we always limit our tours to small groups and we are rewarded with a very relaxed and happy group of paddlers. This excursion is perfect for families, couples, groups, and individuals with any level of paddling experience. First-time paddlers are always welcome. If you are looking for an incredibly relaxed and memorable adventure during your visit to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, this is it!

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.

Experience a whole new side of Florida on this private guided kayaking tour around the waters of Siesta Key. The LED lights fitted to the bottom light up the nighttime waters and the transparent kayaks let you see under the water like never before. Keep a lookout for manatees, dolphins, and other marine wildlife while you paddle through the night.

Join Watersports Now for a 2 hour clear kayak guided tour minutes from downtown Sarasota. Explore mangroves, seagrass beds, and potentially spot dolphins, manatees, and seabirds from a crystal-clear kayak that lets you see straight down to the sea life below. What to Expect: Launch from Longboat Key near Sarasota Paddle bays, mangrove tunnels, and open water Learn about the local ecosystem This paddle is recommended for intermediate to advanced paddlers or those who are physically fit. Guests should be comfortable paddling for the duration of the tour. A safety briefing and Coast Guard-approved life jackets are provided, with time for photos along the way. 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.

What makes this Sarasota Restaurant/Pub Dock Hop truly unique is its seamless blend of culinary exploration and scenic cruising directly along the intracoastal waterways. Unlike traditional dining experiences, you'll embark on a delectable journey by boat, effortlessly hopping between a diverse array of waterfront restaurants, casual beachside eateries, upscale establishments, and vibrant tiki bars – all accessible directly from the water. The breathtaking cruise itself becomes an integral part of the adventure, offering stunning views of the Sarasota coastline, nearby islands, and the chance to witness a spectacular sunset as you navigate between stops. Adding to its distinctiveness, the tour is entirely customizable, allowing your group to tailor the duration and number of stops to your preferences, ensuring a perfectly paced and personalized libation and culinary exploration.

Explore Sarasota’s Gulf Coast on a guided Clear Kayak Beach Hopping Adventure. Paddle crystal-clear waters in a transparent kayak with views of marine life below. This 3-hour tour is great intermediate to advanced paddlers. Launch near Sarasota and paddle calm bays, mangrove tunnels, and open water. Opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, rays, fish, and coastal birds, then snorkel and relax on secluded beaches. Friendly, experienced guides provide instruction and share insight on the local ecosystem. Guests should have a basic level of physical fitness and be comfortable paddling for extended periods. Safety briefing, gear, and Coast Guard-approved life jackets included. 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.

Enjoy a fun-filled, active excursion—and get up close and personal with Lido Key's spectacular mangrove forests—on this stand-up paddleboarding tour. Pick from several morning and afternoon start times, meet at the departure point in Ted Sperling Park, and set off after a brief introduction. You'll paddle out on Sarasota Bay; will head into the Lido Mangrove Tunnels; and will look out for wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and bald eagles.

Explore the waterways of Sarasota Bay, Bird Key, and Lido Key on a compact two-seater catamaran. Discover a new side of Florida on these unique little speedboats, soaking up the sun and scenery. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you enjoy the ride.

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.

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.

Watch the sunset over Anna Maria Island, then paddle into the night in a glowing clear kayak, lighting up the water beneath you as marine life moves below. Glow Boats offers a one-of-a-kind kayaking experience in 100% clear kayaks illuminated with some of the brightest LED lights in the area, allowing you to see the water and marine life beneath you as you paddle through calm coastal waters and scenic mangrove tunnels after sunset. The tours take place near Neal Preserve, making them beginner-friendly and ideal for a relaxed, scenic paddle. The combination of a stunning Gulf Coast sunset, glowing clear kayaks, and peaceful mangrove tunnels creates a unique two-in-one adventure. With small group sizes and knowledgeable local guides, guests enjoy a more personal and immersive way to explore the waters near Anna Maria Island. Glow Boats is a locally owned, female-owned small business.

Embark on a private two-hour adventure through Florida’s pristine waters, where you’ll witness dolphins and manatees up close, take in the peaceful beauty of hidden waterways, and enjoy a crowd-free, unforgettable experience

What makes this sunset cruise truly unique is the unparalleled combination of natural beauty and effortless relaxation, offering more than just a view, but an immersive experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, you're not simply watching a sunset; you're enveloped in the tranquil waters of the Gulf and Sarasota Bay, witnessing the dynamic interplay of vibrant colors reflecting off the water against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sarasota skyline and nearby keys. Beyond the stunning visuals, our comfortable boat, with its ample seating, provides a truly laid-back and intimate environment, perfect for unwinding whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or quality time with loved ones. Adding to this special journey is the potential for magical encounters with playful dolphins in their natural habitat, turning a beautiful evening into an unforgettable moment of wonder.

We offer guided tours with kayak for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Explore the beauty of Florida's waters both during the day and at night. During the day, travelers can enjoy the crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life, while the night tour provides a unique and thrilling experience of paddling under the starry sky Night Kayak Tour. Experience the charm of Florida's waters in a completely new light with our captivating turns at the night of led lights kayaks. As the sun and darkness get, it embarks on a trip that immerses you in the tranquility and mystery of the night world. Refer through the serene paths, guided by the soft glow of the moon and the stars above. Listen Experts will guarantee a safe and unforgettable experience, sharing their knowledge of local ecosystem and pointing out hidden wonders along the way.

Explore one of Sarasota’s most unforgettable kayaking adventures as you paddle through the winding mangrove tunnels of Lido Key. Glide along calm, shaded waterways that feel like a hidden world, while keeping an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of coastal birds. Our fun and knowledgeable guides make the experience easy and engaging, sharing local insight while helping you feel comfortable on the water. This tour is also a photographer’s dream, with endless opportunities to capture wildlife and stunning scenery. We provide dry bags to keep your gear safe. No experience is necessary. We’ll give you simple paddling tips before you launch, and our stable, high-quality kayaks are designed for all skill levels. Single and tandem kayaks are available, making this perfect for couples, families, and first-time paddlers. Come experience Sarasota from the water this will be an adventure you won’t forget. SarasotaKayakRerntals.com

Explore the waters of Anna Maria Island Sound in 100% crystal-clear kayaks, offering unique views of marine life both beneath and above the surface. Paddle through serene mangrove tunnels surrounding peaceful Neil Preserve, where dolphins, manatees, conchs, and coastal birds are often spotted in their natural habitat. Choose from relaxing daytime paddles, vibrant sunset glow kayak tours, or magical nighttime glow kayak experiences illuminated by LED lights. Led by local expert guides, this family-friendly adventure offers an intimate way to experience Florida’s coastal ecosystem while supporting responsible, low-impact eco-tourism.