Paddle Big Hickory Island mangroves with a guide and included instruction
2 - 2.5 hours
Life jackets, paddles, photos
Join a guided eco tour from Big Hickory Island in Bonita Springs and explore Estero Bay by paddleboard. Get a brief lesson on technique, then paddle into mangroves, inlets, and sandbars while keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
Arrive 15 minutes early for a mandatory safety overview. Tour time is typically 2 to 2.5 hours and varies with group size and conditions.
Full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. With less than 24 hours notice, you receive a 50% refund. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged the full price.
Bring a hat, sunglasses (polarized recommended), sunscreen, bottled water, and water shoes (oyster shells can be sharp enough to cut your feet).
Arrive 15 minutes before departure for a mandatory safety overview.
No. You get a brief lesson on proper paddleboarding techniques before you launch, and the guide makes sure you are comfortable on your board.
Bonita Springs, FL
With a perfect track record across well over a thousand reviews, this kayaking outfitter has clearly mastered the art of creating memorable water experiences. The guides, particularly Nick and Hannah, earn consistent praise for being knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about sharing the local ecosystem. Guests love that Nick captures photos and videos during tours so everyone can stay present and enjoy the moment. The clear kayaks are a popular draw, and excursions often include stops at Big Hickory Island for beachcombing and shell identification. What really stands out is how the guides tailor experiences to different skill levels and ages. First-time kayakers feel comfortable and confident, while those with more experience appreciate the depth of ecological information shared about mangroves, wildlife, and marine life. The relaxed, professional atmosphere makes it work for families, couples, and groups alike. Several international visitors have also had great experiences, showing the operation's ability to connect with all kinds of travelers.
This kayak tour was by far the best we have ever experienced. It was, of course, a beautiful setting, and it was also great fun to go through the mangroves. But our tour guide, Nick, made the experience even more enjoyable. He knew an incredible number of interesting facts about the area, the animals, and the nature. And I really mean the fun facts, not the standard stories. We also got to see dolphins up close several times. All in all, a fantastic experience!
Kim van Lith
May 23, 2026
This kayak tour was by far the best we have ever experienced. It was, of course, a beautiful setting, and it was also great fun to go through the mangroves. But our tour guide, Nick, made the experience even more enjoyable. He knew an incredible number of interesting facts about the area, the animals, and the nature. And I really mean the fun facts, not the standard stories. We also got to see dolphins up close several times. All in all, a fantastic experience!
Kim van Lith
May 23, 2026