kayak tours everglades city

Let your Everglades Adventures Begin!

Escape the pavement in a kayak or canoe

Paddle with a naturalist guide

Rent equipment for multi-day trips

Explore the unique Everglades habitat

Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey

Explore mangroves on a boardwalk stroll

• Guided Kayak Tours

Explore the beautiful Everglades wetlands with a naturalist guide.

• Private Kayak Camping Combo

Kayak Rentals

Explore on your own and rent the equipment you need.

Kayak & Canoe Rentals

• Wilderness Waterway

Kayak Combos

Combine multiple activities for a complete Everglades experience!

• Kayak Airboat Combo

Stay & Play Combo

• Fakahatchee Combo

Why Choose Everglades Adventures?

Discover Everglades Wildlife

Trained Naturalists

Equipment rental.

• Everglades City Boardwalk

30 Years of Experience

Conveniently Located

Perfect for Groups

Guests love us.

"Wonderful morning tour! Fabulous natural & cultural history and great conversations with our guide in Turner River area! Marvelous quiet kayak through mangrove tunnels! Gorgeous birds & cool alligators! Would do this again! Great value and nice equipment."

—L. from Colorado

“We kayaked the Turner River with our personal guide for three and a half hours. We learned about orchids, and cypress trees, and sawgrass, and alligators, and egrets, and why we weren't bothered by mosquitoes. We saw the Everglades in their natural state and it was beautiful."

—C.A.

"Fantastic journey through the wilderness. Our guide was so patient and knowledgeable and friendly. We had a great time working our way down the river and among the mangroves. He shared lots of stories about the plants and pointed out many alligators along the way. Highly recommend this activity. Well worth it if visiting the area."

—S. from Indiana

"What a unique experience to kayak near so many gators! They were much more docile than I had expected so there really was no reason to be nervous with them in the water. We saw a lot of alligators, turtles, birds and even a water snake here. I thought 3 hours of paddling might be a lot, but it was actually very relaxing and more like a float for much of it..."

—F. from Michigan

Visiting Everglades City overnight?

Kayak tours depart from the Ivey House Everglades Adventures Hotel, a perfect destination for families or couples looking for a relaxing Everglades vacation.

• Kayak & Canoe Rentals
• Kayak Stay & Play

Everglades Kayak Tours

-tour the glades-, private wildlife tours.

909 Dupont St

Everglades City, Florida 34139 

[email protected]

239-260-4577, see the real everglades with us.

Come explore the Everglades on our Kayak Tours , Motorboat Tours and other unique Private Guided Adventures . Launching from Historic Everglades City….The Capital City of The Everglades!

Our business model is simple, we only conduct Private Tours with Local Guides…focusing on the Quality of our tours not the Quantity of customers. This approach is Best For The Environment and the only way to truly experience the Everglades….just you and your own Naturalist Guide.

WE have the smallest tour group size in The Everglades…Only You!

You will get Amazing PHOTOS and VIDEOS so bring your camera and be ready for an adventure. Our tours are conducted in The Real Everglades. The Big Cypress Preserve, Fakahatchee Strand and Everglades National Park are the most diverse protected lands in the glades, and full of wildlife!

WE explore MORE locations and have MORE wildlife sightings than any other tour company!

We offer a wide variety of Kayak Tours in several locations in the Everglades.  Our most popular is the 3.5 hour Private Kayak Tour in The Big Cypress Preserve and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve .  We explore both of these beautiful routes year round as we follow the wildlife throughout their seasonal movements.  Typically early mornings and late afternoons are best for wildlife viewing. However, the weather…specifically temperature, dictates much of the wildlife activity.  Since we only do private kayak tours we can be flexible with our start times.

Our low impact philosophy allows our guests to experience the Everglades in a very unique way that will create lifelong memories. We take pride in our tours and have included something for everyone’s sense of adventure.

Our Everglades Tour Collection

Kayak Tours In The Everglades

• This Is The Real Everglades!

Everglades Motorboat Tours

Everglades Kayak Tour & Motorboat Combo – Alligators to Dolphins

Everglades birding tours.

Everglades Hiking Tour

Everglades Swamp Buggy Tour

10,000 Island Exploration

Catch Your Own Dinner Gulf to Table

Camping In The 10,000 Islands

Everglades Big 5 Tour

Kayak & Bike Rentals

• Explore On Your Own

If Kayaking is your thing you you’ll definitely want to call on us!  Our small business / private tour approach allows us to be the most flexible, accommodating and innovative tour company in the Everglades.  We’ve done it this way for 14 years now because we are serious about spotting wildlife. We are very fortunate to have so many return guests because we never run out of things to do/see and places to explore.  Here are some other kayak tour options for you to consider when booking…. 

Everglades Kayak Tours 

Sunrise kayak tour.

We call the “The First On The River Tour” because you will be! We’ll meet pre-sunrise and be on the water as the Everglades Awakens.  This is the BEST time for wildlife and we also beat the other big tour groups in and out!

Mangrove Kayak Tour

The Everglades is also home the the largest uninhabited mangrove forest in the world!  We explore this unique ecosystem through the natural tunnel systems connecting the upland areas of the Everglades to the Gulf of Mexico.

Full Moon Kayak Tours

This is a tour you’ll want to book well in advance. We set out just at sunset and paddle into the twilight to watch the full moon rise.  Headlamps are provided as we paddle back in the darkness!  We only do private tours so once the full moon is booked we are full.

   Full Day Kayak Tour

You’ll travel the ancient route used by the Calusa and Seminole Indians to travel from the upland areas of the Everglades to the rich estuaries in the bay.  This is a big day and not recommended for a first time kayak adventure.

Kayak Combo Tours

If you can get an early start you can easily combine a morning Kayak Tour with a Motorboat Tour, Hiking, Swampbuggy Tour or even an Airboat Ride.  Between your tours you can have a nice lunch in Everglades City or even bring a picnic lunch with you!

Sunset Kayak Tour

Watching the sunset is a great way to end any day!  We operate year round but the prime time for the Sunset Kayak Tour is Oct-May. Outside of that we can always attempt as long as the weather cooperates.  Another option is to see the sunset from the 10,000 islands on our Motorboat Tour.

Everglades  Cit y is the perfect basecamp for our Kayak Tours and other adventures.  It is considered The Capital City of the Everglades and is completely surrounded by the Top 4 National & State Parks. Hotels, restaurants, a grocery store and all the creature comforts right here in the middle of this beautiful wilderness setting.

Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

605 Buckner Ave N

Everglades City, FL 34139

You Might Also Consider

Chokoloskee Island Resort

3.8 miles away from Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours

Bob S. said "Day tripper here, came over from way over there to do some 10000 island fishing. We pulled in about 0630. The office opens at 0700. We rigged up our kayaks right near the ramp. Which is nice. The office guy filled me in, rig here,…" read more

in Fishing, Resorts, Hotels

South Bay Marina

Guy C. said "Absolutely amazing people to work with! If you are looking for a fishing charter call these guys! Hard working and honest people. Go have fun!" read more

in Marinas, Fishing, Boat Charters

Holiday Water Sports Fort Myers Beach

Welcome To Holiday Water Sports Fort Myers Beach! Holiday Water Sports is Estero Island's premier water sports attraction for Guided Dolphin Adventure Tours, WaveRunner Rentals, Beach Chair & Umbrella Rentals, Sailboat Rentals,… read more

in Jet Skis, Parasailing, Boat Tours

Amenities and More

About the business.

Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours, located at the Ivey House in Everglades City, is the leading provider of eco-tours in the western Everglades. For over 30 years, our eco-paddling adventures, either by canoe or kayak, have been amazing visitors from around the world with breathtaking excursions along peaceful flatwater and deep into lush subtropical cypress and mangrove forests full of rare and exotic wildlife. All of our tours are guided by naturalists who take you to their favorite spots and share their knowledge of this ecosystem. For travelers who want to experience the beautiful backcountry of the Everglades on their own, Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours provides canoe and kayak rentals and convenient shuttle service. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

I did a tour and a kayak rental through Everglades Adventures and I gotta say everything was excellent and incredible all the way around I stopped into the office before my tour time just to go over my kayak plan and get any advice and knowledge for my kayak camping trip Dylan, who runs the rentals and tours was SO knowledgeable and SO helpful! We discussed my original plan, and unfortunately I had not planned well enough. Dylan helped me adjust my plan, and guide me to a better, more attainable set of camping sites. With his knowledge and advice, I ended up leaving one day later, BUT it was definitely for the best. Dylan's knowledge is key! Always take his advice! By taking Dylan's tips and advice, I had an amazing kayak camping experience - I paddled out to Tiger key, during the calm part of my trip, and then hunkered down on Tiger for a few days - which Dylan had warned there would be a storm. With his advice, I took a book and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I paddled around some of the other Keys and headed back on a safer day. My Eco tour was with Alec, and he was an excellent tour guide - he took us through the mangroves and we saw some alligators, water fowl, and ospreys- super dope! He gave us some really interesting history about Big Cypress and the Everglades, and was all around just awesome. Finally, shoutout to Matt, who was super helpful setting up my kayak rental and getting me paddles. He went above and beyond to make sure I had two sets of breakdown paddles for my journey - just awesome! Thanks so much Dylan, Alec and Matt, you all rock! Highly recommended!

See all photos from Devin P. for Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours

We had an amazing kayak tour on the Turner River. Kenzie, our guide was amazing. Her passion for the Everglades is evident in her knowledge of the history, wildlife and vegetation.

We had an excellent 12.5 mile unguided kayak trip approx 4-5 hrs. Dylan set us up and was great. Plenty of gators, and tons of birds and fish. A great adventure with almost no one else on the water

Visiting for the week, and was lucky to check this off my bucket list. We had a great guide. Thank you, Sophia:) the wildlife is amazing, paddling was very relaxed. Definitely recommend this to start your day. You will still have plenty of energy for another afternoon adventure.

We had great time kayaking with the Everglades Adventures Kayak tours. We requested in advance and were able to secure a private tour for just the six of our group. In all the kayak tours I have had (which is plenty) this was one of the most memorable one. The tour guide was excellent and we were lucky to see lots of wildlife. We took the morning tour but also heard the afternoon (sunset) tour was excellent as well. Thus, next time we return to Everglades area we are surely doing the tour. Five star kayak tour! Highly recommend

So cool. Private tours are best

Tom was the person who assisted me in setting up a single kayak rental for the day ~85 for 7hrs worth of kayaking, that's a steal in my book. Tom also happened to be the driver to the Turner River Launch. He was very patient and helpful in getting the other adventurers kayaks/canoes down to the launch and attentive to their needs. If you're an experienced kayaker it is a relief to know that you can drive to the launch and then leave the kayak when you're all done, so long as it's before 1600/4PM. I started my kayaking at around 10 and I stayed out pretty much until 1545/345 PM. I went North first and ran into a guide who had an elderly couple with him. He gave great advice in that you can sort of push/paddle yourself through the sawgrass and get into some magical spots and secluded pools. Just a FYI, it is easy to lose your bearings in the sawgrass so track yourself on smart phone GPS while offline (there's mostly no service) to ensure you find your way back. South is where all of the mangrove caves are and lots of alligators just before the cave section. Tom was right just before he sent me off he said, "you're going to love this." It's definitely no kayaking I've ever done before, can't wait to do it again. The ease of the rental can not be overlooked. Will be using them for my return trip.

See all photos from Felipe V. for Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours

Our tour guide was fantastic! very know Knowledgeable and informative. Our second trip with them . Loved it. And easy to stay at the Ivey hotel for the trip. Thanks Todd.!

It was a great adventure during low water season. Our Eco Guide was great. Do it in a kayak

Wilson was our guide. He was so knowledgeable about all of the eco-system, the animals, & made it a lot of fun. Highly recommend & ask for Wilson!

3 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Pure Florida

Pure Florida specializes in water experiences that bring the beauty and wonder of Southwest Florida within reach! Family owned and operated, Pure Florida offers pure family fun for all ages. Pure Florida's Naples location offers… read more

in Fishing, Boat Charters, Tours

People Also Viewed

Shurr Adventures

Tour The Glades - Private Wildlife Tours

Paddle Marco

Rising Tide Explorers

Jenny’s Eco Everglades Wilderness Tours

Speedy’s Airboats

Everglades Area Tours

Back-Water Adventures

Florida Adventures and Rentals

Everglades Kayak Company

Best of Everglades City

Things to do in Everglades City

People found Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours by searching for…

Kayak Rental Everglades City

Browse Nearby

Things to Do

Restaurants

Canoe Rental

Sunset Cruise

Other Rafting/Kayaking Nearby

Find more Rafting/Kayaking near Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours

• Everglades Florida
• (239) 695-3633
• [email protected]

Mangrove Tunnel Tours

Mangrove tunnel kayak eco tours.

Come have some fun and let us share our passion!

Advance purchase required, sign up for our newsletter and special offers, about everglades kayaking | frequently asked questions | directions and maps | photos and videos boat assisted kayak eco tours | mangrove tunnel kayak eco tours | everglades alligators and orchids tours turner river to chokoloskee kayak eco tour | camping kayak tours | outfitting & rentals book a tour | contact us | everglades kayaking home page.

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, canoe and kayak trails.

Last updated: April 19, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

40001 State Road 9336 Homestead, FL 33034-6733

305 242-7700

Stay Connected

• Everglades Kayak Tours
• Photo Gallery

Everglades Kayak Tours | Everglades Eco Tours | Sightseeing Tours

Welcome To Jenny's Eco Everglades!

Where Authenticity, Quality, and Customer Service Are Priority!

[email protected]

Unforgettable Everglades Tours: Led by Local Naturalist

Small-group everglades kayaking: personalized tours for an intimate experience.

Eco Everglades is a small-town family-owned and operated lifestyle. 

Founded on our lifetime zeal for exploring and living in the Everglades! ​

  We are grateful and take pride in our professional yet personal guided kayak eco-tours led by local National Park trained naturalists, a former NPS Park Ranger & Master Captain in the heart of the Everglades!

Jenny's Eco Everglades Wilderness Tours invites you on an unforgettable journey through the pristine beauty of the Everglades. Our personalized guided kayak tours and nature wellness experiences offer a perfect blend of education , excitement , eco-conscious exploration , and a pathway to presence .

Duration : Immerse yourself in nature for a half-day kayak adventure, spanning 3.5 to 4 hours. 

Intimate Groups : With a maximum of 4 participants per tour, enjoy a personalized and immersive experience led by our professional, passionate and knowledgeable guides. All groups of four or more will be private kayak tours. (Approximately 85% of all Tours booked are private tours at this time: Spring/Summer 2024.)

Local Passionate Guides : Our local professional guides are extremely knowledgeable about the Everglades ecosystem and able to provide insights into the intricate balance of flora, fauna, and ongoing conservation efforts. 

Authenticity : Discover the true essence of the Everglades as you paddle through its winding waterways, surrounded by mangroves, marsh prairies, and unique wildlife. 

Booking and Inquiries : Ready to experience your Everglades adventure? 

Contact us via email at: [email protected] for availability or any questions you may have. 

Google Guest Reviews : Read what our guests had to say about their kayak eco-tour experience with us.

Capture the Moment : Browse through our online photo gallery to get a sneak peek of the breathtaking scenery and memorable moments from previous tours.

Our Services:

• Everglades Kayak Tours : Experience the Everglades like never before on our immersive kayak tours. Learn about the rich biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts from our expert guides.
• About Us : Learn more about the history, passion, and experience of Jenny's Eco Everglades Wilderness Tours.
• Contact Us : Have questions or ready to book your adventure? Reach out to us here.
• Photo Gallery : Explore stunning visuals from past tours and get inspired for your own Everglades adventure.
• Smallest Everglades Group Tours : Experience serenity without being in a large loud group. Enjoy area tips from a local guide instead of an out of state guide, often having limited local knowledge. 

Join Jenny's Eco Everglades for an eco-conscious exploration of one of the world's most unique ecosystems. Let's paddle together towards a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Everglades!

Everglades Kayak Tour

Everglades motorboat tours.

American Alligators are often encountered on our Everglades eco tours! 

Experience one of our Everglades kayak tours or the motorboat eco tours. 

Both are wildlife sightseeing tours!

Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are often seen jumping out of the water during the Everglades motorboat eco tours!

Copyright © 2018 Eco Everglades - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Everglades Kayak & Canoe Rentals

• Kayak / Canoe
• National Park Entrance Fee is required. It costs $25 with a vehicle and $8 per person
• 875 S Copeland Ave, Everglades City, FL 34139, USA Check-in at the observation Tower - The Boat Dock is inside the Gulf Coast Everglades National Park
• Wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 875 S Copeland Ave 875 S Copeland Ave, Everglades City, FL 34139, USA Check-in at the observation Tower - The Boat Dock is inside the Gulf Coast Everglades National Park See address & details
• 1 Everglades National Park Stop: 2 hours Our 10,000 Islands tour departs daily from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in beautiful Everglades City, FL. Kayak/Canoe your way across Chokoloskee Bay, into Indian Key Pass, and through the mangrove islands of Everglades National Park. A naturalist will highlight the rich history and unique wildlife of the area. Upon arrival to the Gulf of Mexico, guests may enjoy views of Indian Key, the Stop Keys, Picnic Key, and Marco Island. Every trip is unique, and while wildlife varies day to day, we are always on the lookout for manatees, osprey, sea turtles, shorebirds, and playful dolphins. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• NFernandez_69 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Relaxing and Informative Trip The tour was very good. Captain Bobby was very informative and provided a lot of information on the flora/fauna of the area. Answered all our questions and was very funny as well. The trip itself is very relaxing, you get to see the beautiful Everglades up close. As far as seeing some of the animals, unfortunately we did not get to see as many. We saw dolphins, manatees from afar, and some birds. I should say that the captain was very accommodating - going back and circling to areas so that we could have an opportunity to see an animal. I would have loved to see more animal action - but it is not really within the control of the captain - so I am not taking that as a negative, merely mentioning it so that you are prepared on what to expect. Organization and safety were top notch too, and as stated, Capt Bobby was very cool! Read more Written May 19, 2024
• karaliner2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Much needed escape Just what I needed in life! What a beautiful escape from everyday life. I learned so much and will be back out ASAP. Captain was extremely knowledgeable about the Everglades as a whole. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• josephnB7492BS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Three Hour Cruise We had a very successful three hour cruise. We saw Osprey, and I counted at least six nests. Also, frigate birds, white ibis, a pelican, among other birds in the mangrove forests. We were very lucky to see a pair of tortoises mating! There were dolphins, and we also saw the elusive manatee, plural! So it was an extremely great trip through the everglades. Our skipper was very knowledgeable and kept us entertained with stories about the ecosystem, and his mate kept a lookout for unusual sightings. Thank you for an enjoyable experience. Family of six from Ontario Canada. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• L1843XRoliverc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stunning! What a beautiful tour! Seeing the mangrove tunnels is a must if you are visiting the area. Captain Bobby did an excellent job teaching us about the ecology and history of the area. Highly recommended! Read more Written May 18, 2024
• JaneH1879 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great nature experience The Everglades boat tour was fabulous. We saw so many dolphins, Manatee Alligators and various birds. The captain definitely knew his stuff. He was very informative and explained everything as we went along. Read more Written May 17, 2024
• L8879IIpeterm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing tour! Highly recommend. We took this tour years ago before hurricane Irma and have been waiting years for It to return. Just as great as we remembered it! Read more Written May 15, 2024
• FraFiori 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles dolphin and turtles and gators!! a very very nice experience! after the classic airboat tour, we have done this tour to see other animals, not only gators, and to see the mexico gulf. The tour il wonderful, more than 3 hours with a very gently capitain. To do! Read more Written May 14, 2024
• Evelyn239 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Would do this again. Most satisfying, comfortable and informative excursion. Dolphins, eagles, osprey, oyster catcher birds and more sighted. Read more Written May 7, 2024
• virginiak557 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour. We had a great tour. We were fortunate enough to see alligators, manatee, turtles and dolphins! Really a good tour, lots of information about the animals and the area. Read more Written May 3, 2024
• mackdonna2211 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great excursion, fantastic customer service! We thoroughly enjoyed our 10,000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour with Bobby and Cheese. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that we were the only ones who booked the tour and they still took us out on a private excurion! I have never encountered a company who was willing to do this and we are so very thankful! Bobby and Cheese were excellent at spotting animals. Bobby's knowledge of the area and it's history was amazing. He answered all of our many questions and we learned so much. We saw an eagle ray jump out of the water, an alligator, mama and baby manatee, mama and baby dolphins, and many birds, including a pelican. Highly recommend this company and this tour with Bobby and Cheese for unmatched customer service! Read more Written May 2, 2024
• lurriec2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Waterways full of wonder Great time. Captain was so knowledgeable and answered all questions. You could tell his heart is in the job and he truly cares about the environment, the wildlife, everything. His co Captain was very knowledgeable and pointed out things when I sat up front and chatted with him. I asked if the clouds were always this beautiful and he said, “it’s a special day “. I admire both these gentlemen and will recommend bookings to friends! It was wonderful. Read more Written April 24, 2024
• bobrmj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An amazing guide to an amazing place can be an amazing adventure. Taking ecotours of places I visit on vacation is a favorite pastime of mine. I have seen some amazing things on many of them. Did not seem so many amazing things on this trip however the guide on this trip showed genuine passion for the area he calls home. The ecosystem of the mango Forest and the thousands of islands created by the mangroves has never been better explained or more passionately defended then by the gentleman that led our tour today. One of the most important ecological areas of our country detailed by a true expert. If you just want to see a bunch of animals and plants and birds I'm sure there are other tours but if you really want to fall in love with the areas known as the Thousand Islands I could not imagine a better teacher. He was extremely knowledgeable of the history of the area the Flora and Fauna and the way the mangrove forests saved Florida during the hurricanes. Cannot recommend this tour enough. Read more Written April 23, 2024
• robertbC3737PU 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Eco Tour Great eco tour. Very educational. Bobby was an excellent guide. Had no idea there was so much to see. Saw dolphins, manatees rays and many birds. Would strongly recommend. Read more Written April 22, 2024
• Go707689 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time Bobby was our captain, fun and very knowledgeable, answered all questions and let us just enjoy the wonders of the ocean and Gulf, pointed different wildlife out, over all great time. Read more Written April 21, 2024
• vwinelover 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely excursion out to the Gulf Lovely trip out to the Gulf of Mexico, knowledgeable guides, giving history of the area and pointing out various wild life. Highlight was dolphin play and surfing alongside the boat. Read more Written April 20, 2024

More to explore in Everglades City

Buy it with

Everglades Kayak & Canoe Rentals provided by Everglades Florida Adventures

Best Kayaking Spots in South Florida: the Keys, Everglades, Gulf Coast & More

R oad tripping through Florida is amazing for so many reasons, one of which is the endless list of kayaking spots in South Florida. Varying from state parks to overlooked rivers, and even subtropical kayaking through mangroves, any skill level paddler can find any number of options for getting on the water in South Florida, and there are even great options for clear kayaking tours if you’re interested.

There are several eco-tourism destinations from Lake Okeechobee to the Florida Keys , providing natural alternatives to the bustling coastal cities. The Great Calusa Blueway and the Marco Island region on the Southwest coast give a wide variety of kayaking choices. Our South-Central region provides several excellent freshwater choices, including two of our favorites, Fisheating Creek and Lake Myakka State Park. The Greater Miami area offers one wild and scenic river and some nice paddling in its numerous parks and preserves. The Everglades, Biscayne and Big Cypress offer a much more natural experience within the bounds of National Parks.

Beside what we’re sharing here, there are hundreds more great places to kayak in South Florida. If you want to share your favorite, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to include others’ recommendations and tips!

Easy Kayaking Spots in South Florida

The following spots offer great easy kayaking spots for quick day trips, family outings, or just a more leisurely paddle. Be mindful that most South Florida is known for its hot, humid weather with brutal summers well into the 90s. Winter, while more pleasant, rarely see temperatures below 70 degrees. Moreover, when planning your trip, be mindful of hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November, with September being the peak month. 

Indian Key Historic State Park, Florida Keys

While there are an endless number of waterways to choose from in the Florida Keys, Indian Key Historic State Park is a top choice for your visit. A short 20 minutes will get you from Islamorada to a tiny island once the site of a shipwreck salvage business. Common marine life includes dolphins, eagle rays, and manatees. Check out Robbie’s Marina or Backcountry Cowboys for local information and rentals. 

Check out this great guide to the Best Places to Kayak in the Florida Keys

Note that while this is a fairly easy option, you’ll need to be sure you’re launching from a smooth waterway, such as the northwest tip of Lower Matecumbe Key. If you head too far north and put in on the narrower channels of the Indian Fill keys, you’ll find a rough current when the tides are at their strongest (mid-tide).

Where to launch:

• Indian Key Public Boat Ramp
• Robbies of Islamorada
• or the Southside Indian Key ramp

The Great Calusa Blueway, Cape Coral

The Great Calusa Blueway is a paddling trail that covers a large area typically divided into three smaller regions. Phase one begins with Estero Bay, characterized by its open waters and spectacular views. The next phase of the trail is Pine Island to Matlacha Pass, home to narrower waters, dense marshland, and the J.N Ding Darling National Refuge. Finishing the trail is the Caloosahatchee River and its tributaries. Beginning paddlers will check out the numerous outfitters located in Phase 2- Pine Island to Matlacha Pass.

This is a SUP friendly paddling area, where the tides and sandbars make for great fun and relaxation, depending on where the water level is at when you’re paddling. This area is just north of Naples and south of Fort Myers, so if you’re planning a trip to Naples and Marco Island, you can easily visit the Great Calusa Blueway for a day.

For more information, visit The Great Calusa Blueway section of Lee County’s website . Maps of each phase can be found on Fort Myers tourism website . 

• Matlacha Community Park  

Lake Worth Lagoon, Palm Beach County

Located just outside of Palm Beach, Lake Worth is home to the Snook Islands Natural Area, a protected wetland restoration area complete with a boardwalk, floating dock and kayak launch. Exploring the county’s largest estuary, Lake Worth Lagoon, is best done through local outfitter if you are unfamiliar with the busy nature of the Intracoastal Waterway, Kayak Lake Worth . 

There are lots of great things to do in Palm Beach County , including more paddling on the Intracoastal waterway, such as in Jupiter Inlet or Peanut Island. For the best visit, plan two days in the area for some of the prettiest beaches and kayaking in South Florida. This whole area of Palm Beach County is really wonderful for SUP (stand up paddleboarding) as well as being some of the best mellow kayaking in South Florida.

• Kayak Lake Worth  

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo 

Key Largo is located in the backcountry of Florida Bay and Everglades National Park , complete with dolphins, crocodiles and birds. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park gives opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, SUP and even glass bottom boats to the reef.

The beautiful scenery is great for beginners and is one of the best places to kayak in South Florida, as the area is free of crowds and power boats. Dusenbury Creek provides an excellent opportunity to kayak through the mangrove tunnels. Watch your head as you go through!

Visit Florida Bay Outfitters or  Out There Key Largo Kayak and Fishing Expeditions for kayak tours of the State Park and surrounding area. For more info on John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, visit their website for kayak rental information, as well as expeditions out to the reef for snorkeling.

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Less-visited Kayaking Spots in South Florida

For experienced paddlers visiting South Florida offers countless multi-day excursions into the backcountry full of wilderness and free of human interference. Whether you’re launching your kayak in the Everglades, Loxahatchee River, Bahia Honda Park or Fisheating Creek, you will have to do some planning and be sure mother nature is in good form to allow a paddle. Timing low tides, seasonal considerations such as mosquitoes and heat, open water conditions, and a myriad of other factors will make or break your next paddle. Be sure to plan accordingly. 

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Naples 

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a great place for kayakers. It stretches across 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forest, uplands and protected waters, encompassing nearly half of the Collier County coastline. Birders will want to have their binoculars at hand as the area has excellent birdwatching. If you’re visiting Naples and Marco Island , you can’t NOT visit Rockery Bay!

Kayakers have the opportunity to paddle through beautiful mangrove tunnels, mudflats, and intricate oyster reefs surrounded by wildlife, including sea stars, large snails, birds, dolphins and manatee! However, as much of the area is open water be considerate of wind and tides.

For more information on kayaking in Rookery Bay visit the research reserve site for estuary information or to book kayak rentals or a guided tour.

• Capri Paddlecraft Park  
• Shell Island Boat Launch  

Loxahatchee River in Martin County, Jupiter 

The Loxahatchee River is Florida’s first designated Wild and Scenic River (state, not national). This scenic 8.5-mile paddling trail starts at Riverbend Park in Palm Beach County and takes to you Jonathan Dickson State Park in Martin County, designated a Wild and Scenic River.

The canopy of cypress trees gives kayakers a great refuge from the sun, and thank goodness, as you’ll need 5-7 hours to traverse through scenery of wildlife, taking you through freshwater creeks, brackish waters in an estuary, and emptying into the Jupiter Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean.

Book a guided Loxahatchee River kayaking tour here!

Bonus : stop into the Hobe Sound Natural Wildlife Refuge visitor center before or after your kayaking to get up close with local wildlife, including baby alligators, skunks and snakes found in the area.

• Jonathan Dickinson State Park Hobe Sound
• Riverbend Park Canoe Launch   Jupiter

Bahia Honda Railroad Bridge, Florida Keys

Bahia Honda State Park is part of the Florida Keys and gives picture-perfect island scenery complete with beautiful sandy beaches teeming with vibrant coral reefs. If the waters are calm, we recommend going into the open water and paddling the two-thirds of a mile journey southwest to Spanish Harbor Key.

This part of the Florida Keys is exceptions for wildlife watching . Whether you’re kayaking in South Florida looking for dolphins or hoping for sharks and rays, Bahia Honda and the Railroad Bridge channel are two of the best places to see marine life.

One of the most unique views you’ll find while kayaking in South Florida, the route from Bahia Honda Key and State Park to Spanish Harbor Key takes you along the old railroad bridge, which is one of the most iconic sights in the Florida Keys. You can haul out on the south side of Spanish Harbor Key where you’ll find tidepools and even sandy spots at low tide. Low tide is wonderful for birdwatching in the Florida Keys .

Note : the current through the channel here is fierce sometimes and you’ll want to be sure to paddle far enough away from the bridges towards the open water to navigate safely. Being a strong paddler is very important here and this should not be attempted by novices.

Bahia Honda State Park 36850 Overseas Highway Big Pine Key, Florida 33043 (305) 872-2353   

• Calusa Beach & Loggerhead Beach  – on weekends and late mornings there may be a wait to enter the state park
• Spanish Harbor Key tide pool beach

Famous Fisheating Creek, Palmdale

This is where kayaking in South Florida really changes, as Fisheating Creek is the interior. It’s where old Florida meets the subtropical jungle. Paddlers have hyped up Fisheating Creek as one of the most scenic and unique paddles in Florida. The river is full of ancient cypress trees, Spanish moss, air plants, and an abundance of wildlife.

Swimming is not recommended due to the presence of alligators and water moccasins. The 52 mile long river starts in Highlands County and ends at Lake Okeechobee. Upstream from Fisheating Creek Outpost is where most paddlers start their adventure.

For more information on the area, visit Fisheating Creek Outpost’s official website .  

• Fisheating Creek Outpost

National and State Park Kayaking in South Florida

There are 11 National Park sites in Florida and ten times as many state parks. You’ll find that nearly all of them have some sort of kayaking or canoeing option. Many state parks have rental vendors located on site, and there are authorized vendors in Biscayne and Everglades National Parks for rentals and tours.

Check out our guide to Kayaking in Florida State and National Parks here!

Biscayne National Park, Homestead or Islandia

Kayakers visiting Biscayne National Park will find plenty of opportunities to explore the mangrove-lined shorelines and shallow bay waters. The park’s expansive Biscayne Bay is perfect for crossing to Elliott or Boca Chita Keys, and experienced kayakers can find plenty of enjoyable routes to explore.

Tip: due to the size and expansiveness of Biscayne National Park, planning a kayaking trip with the Biscayne Institute is recommended. They are the National Park Service authorized vendor.

Adams Key is the most popular launching spot and a great spot to base yourself and explore the lagoons, creeks and channels to the north in Biscayne National Park. Given the shallow waters, you won’t see motorized vessels in the area and you’ll have the place all to yourself. The paddle if you’re kayaking from Adams Key is long, so be well prepared.

Visit the National Park Services website for more information and regulations.

Where to launch: 

• Dante Fascell Visitor Center – Homestead, FL map here
• Adams Key parking area – parking not guaranteed

Everglades National Park in Homestead or Everglades City, FL

The biodiversity of the Everglades subtropical setting touches both the Gulf coast and the Atlantic. Kayakers have the option to start on either side when launching on a multi-day excursion. The best way to take in Everglades National Park is through the Wilderness Waterway, a trail between Everglades City and the Flamingo area at the southern end of the National Park.

Tide charts will be your savior from getting stuck in mud during low tide. It is recommended to make this trip during the winter or spring, taking full advantage of the winds and fewer chances of severe and unexpected weather. Start in Everglades City in the 10,00 Islands area and end at the Flamingo visitors center. Embarking on this trip is best done through an outfitter as it requires planning and back-country permits. 

Our recommended outfitter is Everglades Florida Adventure . If you do want to do this on your own and have the experience and the proper gear and training (there are crocodiles AND alligators), to help you plan your trip, visit the National Park Service website .

We went kayaking in the 10,000 Islands area of Everglades National Park while visiting Naples and Marco Island. It was an easy drive from town to Chokoloskee, and the boat-assisted kayaking tour was remarkable. The wildlife in the mangroves, especially the birds, was beautiful and the final destination of Rabbit Key was just WOW.

Go out with Everglades Area Tours for this specific experience. You won’t be disappointed!

The other aspect of kayaking in Everglades National Park is going through the river of grass. There are only a few places where you can launch a kayak and NOT potentially cross paths with airboats. The Turner River launch at the Edge of Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve is one of those spots. This is alligator territory for sure, so be prepared to see lots of gators as you explore the area.

• Gulf Coast Visitor Center
• Flamingo Visitor Center  
• Turner River Kayak Launch (Big Cypress area)

Cayo Costa State Park on the Gulf of Mexico

A favorite South Florida kayaking spot (maybe even considered central Florida) Cayo Costa is very special and one of the least visited state parks in Florida. Kayakers looking to visit Cayo Costa State Park will find nearly miles of trails winding their way through three distinct ecosystems. Note: Hurricane Ian in 2022 hit the island hard and changed it forever. It’s still beautiful, but kayaking to the cabins and staying there isn’t currently possible (2023).

The highlight of the park is the over 8 miles of undeveloped, natural beaches – perfect for finding seclusion and some well-deserved peace and quiet. The park’s numerous islands and passages between them are teeming with wildlife including manatees, dolphins, alligators, osprey, eagles and many seabirds. One highlight includes the Manatee Hole, a small lagoon where manatees can be seen year-round.

For more information visit the Cayo Costa State Park section of the Florida State Parks website . Here you’ll also find information about camping on the small island.

• Safe Harbor Pineland  
• Bocilla Island Boat Ramp
• Gasparilla Island State Park beach

Kayaking in Big Cypress National Preserve

If you’re a kayaker looking for an amazing Florida adventure, be sure to check out Big Cypress National Preserve . Bordering the Everglades National Park, Big Cypress is a diverse marine estuary swamp spanning over 700,000 acres. The preserve is home to a wide variety of plant life and animals, including the endangered Florida panther.

There are plenty of trails to explore, but the best time to paddle the waterways is between November and March when temperatures are more tolerable and the water levels are consistent. There isn’t a National Park authorized vendor at this time (March 2022) but you can launch and paddle on your own. Be sure to register at one of the visitor centers AND to let somebody else know what you’re doing, where you’re going, and when you should be back.

For more information visit National Park Services website, specifically the kayaking and canoeing section . See Canoe Trails info here

• Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center
• Turner River Kayak Launch
• DO NOT LAUNCH FROM MITCHELL LANDING ( map here ) – if you’re unfamiliar with the area and just looking at a map, you’ll see this is a boat launch, but it is for airboats and is not suitable for kayaking or canoeing.

Recommended Kayaking Tours in South Florida

While we realized not everyone visiting South Florida are experienced kayakers, we still believe that a trip into the Everglades National Park is a must. Those pressed on time will enjoy a guided tour with Everglades Adventures Kayak & Eco Tours from the Everglades City entrance. Their team of professionals will take you through mangrove tunnels and cypress ponds full of exotic Floridian wildlife!

Note : there are no guided kayaking tours from the Shark Valley area of Everglades National Park, just the overland tram tour or bike rentals.

If you find yourself in the city of Fort Lauderdale just north of Miami, there are also opportunities to paddle. Fort Lauderdale is part of Broward County, and with over 300 miles of navigable waterways in this county alone, it’s a great place for kayaking in South Florida. Nicknamed the Venice of America, it offers more than just beautiful beaches! We recommend hopping on a kayak and exploring the Venice of America. Sunrise Paddleboards does both SUP and kayaking tours through the nature preserve and they can accommodate nearly any age and skill level.

Regardless of where you are in Florida paddling options abound and are a must do in the Sunshine state!

When to Visit South Florida

Visiting South Florida is a great idea year round if you’re trying to either escape the cold or really want to feel like you’re cooking in an instapot. From Jupiter and Palm Beach county, across to Bradenton and southward, it never really gets too cold, so they are all year-round destinations for kayaking and beach days. In summer though, it really can get hot, so if you’re kayaking in South Florida May through September, plan your paddling to start early in the day.

Check out our guide to visiting the Florida Keys in Summer , as the same principles apply to visiting South Florida for kayaking in summer.

Weather in South Florida

If you’re looking to kayak in South Florida, late October to early March is typically the best time to do so. The weather is usually calmer during this time, and you’re more likely to see migratory birds and other wildlife. Keep in mind that there may be more storms in the later part of March and into April.

For summer trips for kayaking in South Florida, you will need to be wary of storms and the possibility of getting hit by lightning, though rare, is very much possible. The Atlantic hurricane season starts on June 1 and lasts until November 30. The season peaks in August through early October as surface temperatures in the Atlantic hit their highest temperatures, but there is usually ample warning if a named storm, or even just a bad weather system, is going to make its way through.

Need to Know for South Florida

Beyond the weather considerations mentioned above, tides and bugs are important factors when planning your trip. Mosquitoes are a common problem in South Florida, so be sure to take precautions during activities and use insect repellent. The weather is conducive to high levels of mosquitoes, so make sure you’re prepared.

Moreover, you’ll want to check the water conditions, specifically the tides, when planning a trip, especially in some of the national parks such as the Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. Our advice, trade the bugs for the migratory birds and the muggy stormy weather for cooler temperatures and visit in the winter!

Wildlife While Kayaking in South Florida

One last consideration is wildlife. Florida has incredible creatures that can seem rather intimidating. While you always want to keep your distance, both for your safety and that of the animals, you need to be aware of aggressive or unusual behaviors as you paddle. The most common wildlife you’re encounter while kayaking in South Florida includes alligators, manatees, sharks, turtles (sea and freshwater), dolphins (salt water and Intracoastal paddling), and then crocodiles.

Dolphins and manatees tend to be curious and playful, but don’t often directly approach paddlers. You will want to keep at least 15 feet from manatees and 50 yards+ from dolphins, unless they are coming to you. They don’t often cause problems for kayakers, but you DON’T want to surprise a manatee by sneaking up on it and then experience what’s called a manatee rodeo.

When it comes to sharks and sea turtles, you may see them, both only briefly. It’s not common for either to stick around for long. You may enjoy being escorted through shallow salt water by a sting ray or eagle ray, but again, that’s usually breif.

Being aware of alligators and crocodiles is very important. While neither is usually interested in humans in any capacity, if they are approached, taunted, fed or if they’re protecting young, you’ll want to get away from them pretty quickly. Most of the time when you see alligators they’re disinterested and would rather just sleep, and it’s the same with crocodiles.

Note : crocodiles are found in saltwater and only in a few places, mainly the Upper Keys and western side of the Everglades, but these are wild animals, so they can go wherever they like.

I hope you’re excited to explore and enjoy kayaking in South Florida. It’s really the best way to experience this beautiful place, and the diversity of sights and wildlife make it a paddling bucket list destination.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re happy to help plan kayaking trips!

• ARTS & MUSEUMS
• EDUCATIONAL

Error report has been sent successfully.

We will review your submission and make any necessary updates.

If you're a band, promotor, venue, or artist representative,

Consider becoming one of our verified users!

- speed up the creation process

- Add multiple events and artist at once

- Skip the holding period and publish automatically

Shared Kayak And Airboat Tour To Everglades

Similar events.