Coastal Kayak Charters is the passion project of longtime guides Ross and Doug, who transformed their love of wild water into intimate paddling adventures through St. Pete Beach’s Shell Key Preserve. Backed by 15+ years in guiding...
Coastal Kayak really delivers when it comes to exploring the mangrove tunnels and Shell Key Preserve. Guides like Taylor, Tracy, and Kristi consistently earn praise for being knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely friendly. They tailor tours to match what groups want to see and do, whether that's lingering in the stunning mangrove tunnels or spending more time relaxing on the white sand beaches. Wildlife sightings of dolphins, manatees, and various birds are common, though never guaranteed. Several guests mentioned their guides even took photos during the trip and shared them afterward. The tours typically run about three hours and include exploring the beautiful mangrove ecosystem before heading to Shell Key. Most reviewers loved the relaxed pace and the guides' expertise about local wildlife and history. One reviewer noted their guide paddled quite quickly through the tunnels, which felt rushed. Another mentioned the clear kayaks look cool but are actually harder to paddle and don't really enhance the experience compared to regular kayaks. The occasional complaint aside, this outfit has built a strong reputation for creating memorable kayaking adventures in the Tampa Bay area.
Had an amazing 3 hour private tour for two of us with Tracy. She is friendly, informative and took the time to do what we wanted to do. We saw birds, fish, dolphins, mangrove tunnels and spent some time relaxing on Shell Key. Highly recommend!!!
Robert Leonard
September 7, 2025
Had an amazing 3 hour private tour for two of us with Tracy. She is friendly, informative and took the time to do what we wanted to do. We saw birds, fish, dolphins, mangrove tunnels and spent some time relaxing on Shell Key. Highly recommend!!!
Robert Leonard
September 7, 2025