Guided Eco Kayaking Tour - Oleta River State Park

The tour launches from the Oleta River Outdoor Center and heads through the park's winding mangrove tunnels, which open out onto the northernmost edge of Biscayne Bay. Depending on season and tides, the route may include a stop at Sandspur Island or Beach Cove — both are excellent spots for a swim, a short walk, or simply relaxing before the paddle back. The route varies to make the most of current conditions, and your guide will choose the best path on the day.

Oleta River State Park sits on the northern edge of Biscayne Bay, one of Florida's most ecologically important coastal habitats. Common sightings include herons, egrets, ospreys, cormorants, brown pelicans, and other shorebirds in the mangroves. On the open water, guests frequently spot manatees, dolphins, rays, and a variety of fish. The shallow, clear water makes wildlife watching particularly rewarding throughout the tour.

Oleta River State Park is beautiful year-round. The dry season (November through April) typically brings the most comfortable paddling conditions — lower humidity, cooler temperatures, and calmer bay waters. Manatees are most commonly spotted in winter months when they congregate in the warmer waters of the bay. Summer tours are equally stunning but expect warm, humid conditions and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms; morning departures are recommended.

Absolutely! This tour is dog friendly — your four-legged friends are welcome on the water. Just make sure your pup is comfortable, supervised, and wearing a flotation device for safety.

Absolutely. Coolers and snacks are welcome on this tour. Refreshments are also available for purchase at the on-site Beach Bistro before or after your paddle.

Yes — the outfitter actively encourages guests to bring snorkeling gear and binoculars to enhance the experience, particularly around Sandspur Island where shallow, clear water makes for great snorkeling conditions (weather and tide permitting).

Absolutely. These are calm, protected waterways, and the pace is set for all experience levels. Your guide will provide a full orientation and basic technique tips before you launch. For more tips to help you prepare, check out TripOutside's blog post on Kayaking for Beginners!

Tours operate rain or shine unless there is a severe weather event. In the event of unsafe weather, the outfitter will offer guests the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Florida's afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer — morning tours are generally recommended during those months.

Yes — please arrive 15 to 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time for check-in, waiver signing, and gear fitting. Tours depart on time and the guide will not wait for late arrivals.

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs and seagrass beds like those found throughout Biscayne Bay. Reef-SAFE sunscreens use non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to absorb, helping protect these vital ecosystems. Please avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider sun-protective clothing as an alternative, and if you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled "non-nano."

Please be respectful of the fact that coral is a living organism and any standing, touching, or knocking over will irreparably damage the organism that takes a very long time to grow and is essential to our marine reefs. Please also be respectful of any marine animals including but not limited to turtles, rays, sharks, seals, and dolphins. Please never chase, harass, feed, or touch any of the marine species. Enjoy their company if they approach from a distance and calmly move away from them if in their path.

Oleta River State Park is located at 3400 NE 163rd St, North Miami Beach, FL 33160 — approximately 30 minutes from downtown Miami. From I-95 north or south, take NE 163rd Street / FL-826 east toward the beach. The park entrance is on the right, approximately 4 miles from I-95. The Outdoor Center is inside the park, directly on the water.

Yes — on-site parking is available inside Oleta River State Park. The state park entrance fee covers vehicle entry and parking: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles or motorcycles, and $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. Florida State Parks Annual Pass holders may enter at no charge. Note that the park may close to new arrivals when it reaches capacity on busy weekends and holidays — it is recommended to call the park's ranger station ahead of time on those days.

Yes. The Outdoor Center has restrooms, changing rooms, and showers available for day visitors. A Beach Bistro is also on-site offering food and drinks, and the park has picnic areas along the waterfront.

Tips are greatly appreciated and a wonderful way to recognize a great experience. Standard US gratuity is 20%.