Explore hidden mangrove tunnels and mudflats with a biologist guide for a unique wildlife adventure.
2-3 hours
Guided tour, biologist guide, photography
Discover the estuaries of Southwest Florida as you paddle through mangrove tunnels and over active mudflats with a knowledgeable biologist guide. Experience local wildlife and learn about the unique habitats of Rookery Bay Reserve.
Children must be ages 3 or older. All participants should arrive 30 minutes before launch and be prepared to wade knee deep in water. A $10 parking pass may be required if you do not have a Collier County Beach Parking Sticker.
Full refund or free rescheduling with 48 hours notice. Rescheduling within 48 hours may incur a fee up to 50%. No changes within 24 hours. No-shows are charged full price. Arrive 30 minutes early to avoid missing the tour; late arrivals will not be refunded.
1295 Capri Blvd, Naples, FL
The guides here are consistently the standout feature, with names like Evan, Eben, Winston, Gerald, and Derek earning individual praise for their genuine expertise and personable approach. Many are biologists or have advanced degrees in marine science, and it shows in how they bring the ecosystem to life. They dive down to retrieve sea creatures for closer looks, share fascinating details about mangrove propagation, and maintain an engaging commentary throughout the 2.5 to 3-hour tours. Families appreciate how patient and accommodating the guides are with nervous kayakers and children. The tours explore Rookery Bay's mangrove tunnels and mudflats, offering sightings of dolphins, frigate birds, ospreys, sea stars, and various marine life. Reviewers love the conservation mission behind the operation, knowing their fees support environmental work in the area. Multiple visitors warn about serious sun exposure since your legs remain uncovered in the kayaks, so come prepared with sun-protective clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen. The physical effort is moderate but sustained, so it's best suited for those without significant mobility limitations. Repeat customers speak volumes about the quality of the experience.
We booked a 9am-12p mangrove kayak tour in Rookery Bay estuary, with 3 adults and 2 children (8yo/9yo). Our guide was Eben, a biologist who studied estuaries at the U, who did a terrific job and shared a ton of valuable information about Rookery Bay and estuaries in general. We covered about 3 miles of Rookery Bay, including numerous mangrove tunnels. We saw an abundance of wildlife both in and out of the water. If you’re looking for a guided/educational kayak tour in southwest Florida, this is it. 10/10. Highly recommend.
Caleb McDaniel
October 8, 2025
We booked a 9am-12p mangrove kayak tour in Rookery Bay estuary, with 3 adults and 2 children (8yo/9yo). Our guide was Eben, a biologist who studied estuaries at the U, who did a terrific job and shared a ton of valuable information about Rookery Bay and estuaries in general. We covered about 3 miles of Rookery Bay, including numerous mangrove tunnels. We saw an abundance of wildlife both in and out of the water. If you’re looking for a guided/educational kayak tour in southwest Florida, this is it. 10/10. Highly recommend.
Caleb McDaniel
October 8, 2025