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Kayak Adventure of Shell Key Preserve & Island with a Local

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

Thu 31 Oct

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $50.00

Make a reservation

Thu 31 Oct

Starting at $50.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

kayak, paddle, lifejacket (PFD), whistle or signalling device

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitised between use
This an outdoor experience with plenty of space for all guests and guides to remain at least 6 feet away from each other at all times.

What To Expect

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 (100)

Getaway744559

Apr 2021

The kayak adventure with Scott and Karissa was exceptional from start to finish. The communication for booking was quick, efficient, and pleasant. Upon arrival, I was greeted warmly and by Scott and Karissa and introduced to the others that would be paddling with us. Scott has an engaging personality and shared his local knowledge of birds, plants, weather, and history. Super fun are the cormorants who swim and dive next to and under the kayaks! I have been over to Shell Key several times via the shuttle but this experience was hands down the most awesome way to explore the preserve and surrounding area! We explored several mangrove tunnels and then had plenty of time to explore Shell Key on foot. Scott took the lead and Karissa brought up the rear making sure all guests were attended to, safe, and included. Another bonus is that Scott is former Navy and I so appreciate supporting a member of our armed forces that start up small and local businesses.

Response from Host

Apr 2021

Thank you very much for coming out kayaking with us. We enjoyed getting to know you and showing you all of Shell Keys treasures. Thank you for taking the time to write us a wonderful review. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your stay and look forward to seeing you again next time. Scott &Karissa

ShannonC341

Apr 2021

Lovely being on the water and enjoying the magnificence of the bay. We set off with a large group of paddlers...all ages mind you...and everyone seemed to love the experience. We paddled through the mangroves and then onward to Shell Key Preserve. The Preserve is really beautiful on a Monday! There were very few people there. There were dolphin, blue herons, osprey and lots of shells. The water is crystal clear and a lovely shade of blue. It was just a beautiful way to spend the morning...gently paddling, enjoying the great Florida outdoors with a tour guide. Scott was informative about the flora and fauna. Very pleasant trip.

Response from Host

Apr 2021

Shannon, we enjoy sharing the natural beauty of Florida with wonderful families like yours. Thank you very much for bringing your family out and taking the time to leave us a great review. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your stay and look forward to seeing you again next time. Scott &Karissa

Darcy B

Apr 2021

Scott and Karissa are amazing! From the moment I booked the kayak adventure until the end, I was super impressed with their quick communications and flexibility. We loved the mangroves, Shell Key (we found sand dollars) where we watched a giant bird in a tree, eating a freshly caught fish, and the "Florida Loons" (I can't remember their real name) which swam and dove around us the whole time, and some dolphins. This was my favorite part of our week long trip to Florida! Just a reminder to tip them (they would never ask) because they are so nice! :)

Response from Host

Apr 2021

Darcy, thank you so much for bringing your family out kayaking with us. It makes us happy to hear you had so much fun. Thank you very much for taking time to leave us a wonderful review. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your vacation and we look forward to seeing you again next time. Scott &Karissa