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Guided Kayak Mangrove Tunnel Tour Sarasota

Guided
See all kayak tours in Sarasota
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Wildlife
Beginner Friendly
Free Cancellation
On the Water
Instant Book
Duration: 2 hours

Pricing

Single Kayak
$65
Tandem Kayak

Price is for 2 people*

$130

All Prices

Single Kayak
$65
Tandem Kayak

Price is for 2 people*

$130

Description

Lido Key Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour

Kayaking the mangrove tunnels of Lido Key is one of the most popular things to do in the Sarasota area - and for good reason. This guided 2-hour tour takes you through the calm, protected waters of Sarasota Bay, weaving through natural mangrove tunnels that shelter one of the most diverse coastal ecosystems on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Your expert guides lead the way on sit-on-top kayaks (single or tandem), making the experience safe and accessible for all ages — from first-timers to experienced paddlers. Before you set out, guides provide a brief paddle lesson to get everyone comfortable on the water. From there, the pace is relaxed as you explore a landscape teeming with life. Keep your eyes open for manatees, dolphins, birds, fish, starfish, and shells along the way. The bay is a protected body of water and an easy paddle — most of the route travels through shallow water, with occasional ventures into deeper areas where wildlife tends to congregate.

One notable detail: there are no alligators in the mangrove tunnels on Lido Key or in the bay, making this a particularly welcoming environment for families and first-timers. The best time to spot manatees is April through December, though dolphins are commonly seen year-round as they travel through the nearby channel and come into the bay to feed.

Duration

2 hours

Location / Where to Meet

Ted Sterling Park
190 Taft Drive Sarasota, FL 34236, US

Ages

Ages 2+. Children under the age of 12 need to be accompanied by an adult in a tandem kayak.

What's Included

  • Paddle
  • PFD
  • Dry bags for cameras, keys, and phones

Not Included

  1. Water & Snacks
  2. Gratuity

What to Bring

  • Water
  • Towel
  • Sunblock
  • Hat
  • Light clothes

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Kayaking SRQ

FAQs

What if it rains?

The safety of our guests comes first. We constantly assess weather conditions. If it is light rain, we still go out for our adventure. But, if there is thunder and lightning we will wait for the storm to pass before we head out. If we need to cancel we will try to reschedule you to later in the day or another day. If we need to cancel due to storms and you cannot attend another tour you will be refunded.

Are there alligators?

There are no alligators in the Mangrove Tunnels located on Lido Key or in the Bay.

What kind of kayaks do you provide?

Our kayaks are safe sit on top kayaks. We have both single (solo) and double (tandem) kayaks available. PFDs are provided for children and adults.

Do I need previous experience?

No, this tour is appropriate for first-timers and beginners of all ages! We start all our tours with a short paddle lesson and continue to make sure everyone is comfortable throughout their journey with us. Your happiness is key. The majority of what we kayak through is shallow however, we do venture out to the deeper waters to look for wildlife. The bay is a protected body of water and an easy paddle.

Will we get to see a manatee or dolphin?

It depends on the time of year. The best time to see Manatee is April through December. However, if we have a warmer winter some will stay all year. There is a chance to see them all throughout the year. Dolphins travel through the nearby channel and will come into the bay to feed. It is very common to see a pod of dolphins frolicking while they feed. Please remember this is nature and while we do our best to spot them for you it can never be promised.

Are dogs allowed?

Unfortunately not. The county does not allow dogs in the kayak park unless they are certified service animals.

Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund with a 48 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellations within 48 hours of a scheduled rental or tour, we will reschedule the reservation at no additional cost to the customer, but no refund will be issued. No-shows will be charged the full price.
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Availability

October 2026

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Reviews

Location

Address

190 Taft Drive

Sarasota, FL, 34236

US

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