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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Longboat Key, FL/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Kayaking Tours/
    5. Lido Key Mangrove Tunnels Kayak Tour
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    Lido Key Mangrove Tunnels Kayak Tour

    Paddle Sarasota's serene mangrove tunnels with a naturalist guide and spot birds, manatees, and dolphins.

    From$65

    Duration

    2 hrs

    Includes

    Guide, kayak equipment, dry bag

    Highlights

    Navigate calm mangrove tunnels on Lido Key and learn about Sarasota Bay’s wildlife from a naturalist guide. Gentle paddling and a mid-tour sandbar stop make this adventure beginner friendly.

    1. Glide through shaded mangrove passages
    2. Watch for birds, fish, manatees and dolphins
    3. Learn local ecology from certified guides
    4. Stop on a sandbar to stretch and explore
    5. Use provided kayaks, paddles and dry bags
    6. Enjoy a short lesson tailored to beginners

    What's Included

    1. Professional and highly-qualified guide
    2. All paddling equipment
    3. Dry storage for personal items
    4. Basic paddling lesson

    Single kayaks are recommended for paddlers 12 and older. The middle seat in a triple kayak is limited to passengers under 50 pounds.

    Cancellation policy

    Full refund if operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Cancel at least 24 hours before your activity for a full refund. No-shows are charged full price.

    Meeting location

    Ted Sperling Nature Park

    Experience provided by Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & Ecoventures
    Experience provided by Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & Ecoventures

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #XMC7GA

    Single Kayak

    $65

    one paddler

    0

    Tandem Kayak

    $130

    two paddlers

    0

    Triple Kayak

    $130

    Middle seat passenger must be under 50 pounds

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

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    Discover what we've curated for you

    5.0 stars• 596 reviews

    Review summary

    5.0
    Excellent
    596 reviews•Google Maps

    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.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    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!

    Photo of Allison Seyler

    Allison Seyler

    September 11, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    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!

    Photo of Allison Seyler

    Allison Seyler

    September 11, 2025

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