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Kayak Adventure of Shell Key Preserve & Island with a Local

Overview
Hi, I'm Scott. Karissa and I are the owners and only guides at Island Kayak Tours. We will guide you through the mangrove tunnels (tide permitting) and time your adventure just right to give you the best chance at seeing dolphins & manatees. There is also free time for you to explore Shell Key Island, whether that means shelling, swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the view. Our tours take place in a shallow saltwater preserve. There are no alligators, and most of the water is knee to waist-deep; perfect for both beginners and experts. All the experience I have from growing up here in St. Petersburg has given me the opportunity to put together a kayak tour like no other. Kayaking has always been one of my favorite things to do around the area. This has allowed me the opportunity to find all the best kayaking spots and to accumulate the local knowledge to give you a true Florida experience. I started this kayaking company to share the natural beauty of my home with you.
City: St Petersburg
Tue 03 Jun
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $58.00
Tue 03 Jun
Starting at $58.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
kayak, paddle, lifejacket (PFD), whistle or signalling device
Additional Info
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
1
Tierra Verde
Tours take place in Shell Key Preserve. As a native Floridian, I will guide you through the backcountry of the preserve. Through shallow grassy meadows we go, watching fish jump and birds hunt; all the while, ducking through the mangrove tunnels (tide permitting) and allowing time for pictures and explanations of the surrounding habitat. Most of the area we paddle in is typically only frequented by locals and is off-limits to motorized vessels.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (168)
E5494XGbrandons
Mar 2025
Scott is a true local and the best person to explore the Shell Preserve with. He knows the beaches, mangroves, and fauna like the back of his hand and can tell you all about the history and his childhood experiences in a way that is genuinely engaging. The water is comparably nicer (cleaner/clearer) on the west coast of Florida compared to Tampa (still nice). The kayaking itself was great. Despite damage from the hurricanes, there were still mangroves tunnels to explore. He gives great instruction and the pace is good whether you're experienced or a beginner. In these crazy times in the world, I felt grounded and peaceful for the first time in awhile. Pure fun and enjoyment.
Response from Host
Mar 2025
Brandon, we enjoyed kayaking with you! Thank you for taking the time to write us an awesome review! Love the pics. We look forward to seeing you again. Safe travels. Scott and Karissa
TrailBlazer314130
Mar 2025
Everything was amazing! We enjoyed every bit of it. Thank you Scott and Chris for a great afternoon and experience! Hope to be back again next year!
Response from Host
Mar 2025
We enjoyed kayaking with you all! Thank you for taking the time to write us an awesome review! Love the pics. We look forward to seeing you both again. Safe travels. Scott and Karissa
billfyock
Mar 2025
One of the best, if not THE best, tour we have ever been on. Scott and his wife were fantastic guides! Cormorants dove under the kayaks as we paddled, while a mama dolphin and her baby played close by. How could it get better?
Response from Host
Mar 2025
Bill, we enjoyed kayaking with you all! Thank you for taking the time to write us an awesome review! We look forward to seeing you both again. Safe travels. Scott and Karissa

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