Explore Lido Key’s mangrove tunnels with included gear and a map for a self-guided adventure.
Half-day (4 hrs)
Paddling equipment, map, lesson
Discover the mangrove tunnels of Lido Key with a half-day kayak or paddleboard rental. Enjoy well-marked paddling trails and spot local wildlife as you glide through the protected forest.
Single kayaks are best for individuals at least 12 years old. Middle seat passenger in triple kayak must be under 50 pounds.
Guests must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled activity for a full refund. Operator cancellations due to weather or unforeseen circumstances will be fully refunded. No-shows will be charged the full price.
With a flawless reputation among recent visitors, this kayaking operation clearly knows what they're doing. Guides like Jeff, Nick, and Shane consistently earn praise for being knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely engaging. People love how the guides share expertise about local birds, marine life, and the mangrove ecosystem while keeping the vibe relaxed and fun. The tours take you through stunning mangrove tunnels and out to beautiful sandbars and beaches, with frequent dolphin sightings and occasional manatee encounters making the experience memorable. Equipment quality stands out as a major plus—multiple reviewers specifically mention how well-maintained the kayaks are compared to other rental operations. The staff handles logistics smoothly, from clear instructions to flexible rescheduling when weather doesn't cooperate. Families particularly appreciate the kid-friendly approach. This is the kind of place where people become repeat customers, often making it an annual tradition when visiting Longboat Key.
We had a fantastic time kayaking on a Happy Paddler guided tour! Don't hesitate - book your spot now (yes, really!) Our guide, Jeff was helpful, thoughtful, and funny. He also easily rebooked us when the weather wasn't in our favor. We saw a ton of birds and fish, and had the pleasure of watching a mother dolphin teaching her baby how to hunt. We made friends with cormorants and had a good time exploring the beach and sandbar. We didn't get lucky enough to see a manatee, but maybe next time, Longbay is beautiful - we'll be back!
Allison Seyler
September 11, 2025
We had a fantastic time kayaking on a Happy Paddler guided tour! Don't hesitate - book your spot now (yes, really!) Our guide, Jeff was helpful, thoughtful, and funny. He also easily rebooked us when the weather wasn't in our favor. We saw a ton of birds and fish, and had the pleasure of watching a mother dolphin teaching her baby how to hunt. We made friends with cormorants and had a good time exploring the beach and sandbar. We didn't get lucky enough to see a manatee, but maybe next time, Longbay is beautiful - we'll be back!
Allison Seyler
September 11, 2025