Shell Key Preserve Sunset Glow Clear Kayak Tour

The Sunset Tour departs while there is still daylight, giving you a gorgeous view of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico from Shell Key beach. As night falls, your LED kayak lights activate and you'll paddle back through the preserve in the dark.

The Glow Tour departs after dark, so the full experience is a nighttime adventure — you'll go straight into the preserve with the LED lights active the entire time, and explore the hidden mangrove tunnel under the glow of the lights. Both tours are equally magical; the Sunset Tour is ideal if you're new to the water or bringing teens on the younger end, while the Glow Tour offers a more immersive nighttime experience.

No — the glow effect is created by waterproof color-changing LED lights built into the bottom of the clear kayaks, not by naturally occurring bioluminescent organisms. The lights illuminate the water beneath you, revealing the seagrass, sand, and any marine life passing below. It is a visually stunning experience, but it differs from a bioluminescent bay tour.

Evening paddling activates different wildlife behavior. Fish become very active at dusk and are frequently seen jumping around the kayaks. Depending on the season, you may also encounter manatees (summer), various species of coastal birds, and crabs along the shallow bottom. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the nighttime preserve has its own magic.

Mosquitos can be active in the mangrove areas, especially in warmer months. The outfitter strongly recommends wearing long sleeves, long pants, and applying insect repellent under your clothing before boarding. Bringing a DEET-free repellent is preferred to avoid any chemical impact on the water.

If you or a member of your group is nervous about nighttime paddling, the Sunset Tour is a great starting point — there is still light at the beginning of the tour and you have time to settle in before full darkness falls. Both tours follow the same sheltered waterway route and are guided the entire time. Let your guide know before launching if you have any concerns.

Yes — a waterproof camera or phone in a waterproof case is recommended for capturing the glow effect. Keep in mind that standard phone cameras may struggle to capture the LED light effect without adjusting settings (try night mode or a longer exposure if available). The outfitter is not responsible for damaged or lost items.

No prior kayaking experience is necessary — tours are designed for all skill levels. Your guide will provide basic paddling tips and tricks before you set off. Guests should have upper-body mobility and be able to walk up and down steps to enter and exit the kayaks.

The weight limit is 250 lbs (113 kg) per person and no more than 425 lbs (193 kg) per boat (two paddlers combined). These limits are set by the kayak manufacturer and cannot be exceeded for safety reasons.

All kayaks are tandem (two paddlers). Seats are removable, so solo paddling can be accommodated for groups with an odd number of participants — the same 250 lb (113 kg) per-person limit still applies.

Prohibited items include disposable containers (cans, plastic, glass, foam, paper), alcoholic beverages, oil-based sunscreens and lotions, tobacco products, and audio speakers.

Yes. You will receive a separate email with a link to complete your waiver (subject: 'Action required for your kayak tour'). Please sign before arriving to save time on the day of your tour.

Yes — the team is passionate about the environment and conservation, donating a portion of proceeds to Florida Land & Springs Conservation. Guides are trained in responsible wildlife viewing, particularly regarding manatees (Guardian Guide certified by Save the Manatee Club).