Paddle Shell Key Preserve on a small-group guided kayak tour
3 Hours
Guide, gear, dry bags
Explore the Shell Key Preserve by kayak on a guided, small-group tour that highlights local ecosystems and time on Shell Key Island. Paddle through protected waters with instruction and gear provided.
Ages 8+; ages 8–12 must ride in a double kayak with an adult or older child. Weight limit is 250 lbs per seat and 450 lbs combined for doubles. Water and water shoes or flip-flops are required, and you must arrive 30 minutes before departure.
Full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price.
Arrive 30 minutes before departure. If you arrive late, you risk forfeiting your tour and fee (no exceptions).
Bring water (you will not be permitted to begin the tour without it). Wear water shoes, slides, or flip-flops.
No experience is necessary. Your guide provides instruction, and the tour includes all gear.
2830 Pinellas Bayway South, FL 33715
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.
This was a GREAT tour! We looked at another option but went with Coastal because they could accommodate our 3 person group and so glad we did. Opted for the morning tour to avoid the midday sun/heat. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly and truly loves what she does. Shell Key was awesome and even found a large conch shell while exploring. Thank you so much for a wonderful experience.
Meredith Gruenwald
May 24, 2026
This was a GREAT tour! We looked at another option but went with Coastal because they could accommodate our 3 person group and so glad we did. Opted for the morning tour to avoid the midday sun/heat. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly and truly loves what she does. Shell Key was awesome and even found a large conch shell while exploring. Thank you so much for a wonderful experience.
Meredith Gruenwald
May 24, 2026