Paddle mangrove creeks at dusk and watch birds return to their rookery at sunset
2 - 2.5 hours
Guide, Kayak, PFD
Explore the backwaters of Rookery Bay Reserve as the sun gets low, paddling a winding mangrove creek into the bay at sunset. Anchor near a bird rookery island to watch local birds return for the night before you paddle back in the twilight.
Arrive 30 minutes early to get fitted with PFDs and kayaks before launch. You will wade knee deep to launch, so wear footwear you do not mind getting wet. There are no restrooms available at the launch site.
Full refund or free reschedule with 48 hours notice. Reservations cannot be changed within 24 hours of the scheduled launch time and a refund should not be expected. No-shows are charged the full price. Tours depart promptly, and missing a tour due to late arrival will not result in a refund.
Product ID: 326JBX
Suggested items include water, sunscreen, binoculars, bug spray (and/or bug-protection clothing like long pants/shirt), snacks, a hat or other sun protection, protective footwear (it will get wet), a flashlight or headlamp, and cash.
Continue all the way to the end of Shell Island Road; it dead-ends into the water where the group launches. You should see the truck and trailer at the end, along with signs to help guide the way.
You can receive a full refund or reschedule with 48 hours’ notice. Changes can’t be made within 24 hours of the scheduled launch time, and a refund should not be expected. No-shows are charged the full price.
10 Shell Island Rd, Naples, FL 34113
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.
Our kayak trip was wonderful, and I enjoyed kayaking along the mangrove trees. Ryan was so informative and excited about the estuary. We saw a horseshoe crab and seas stars, along with many other creatures Ryan found along the way. I’d highly recommend the kayak tour with Rising Tide.
Laurel Durban
August 18, 2026
Our kayak trip was wonderful, and I enjoyed kayaking along the mangrove trees. Ryan was so informative and excited about the estuary. We saw a horseshoe crab and seas stars, along with many other creatures Ryan found along the way. I’d highly recommend the kayak tour with Rising Tide.
Laurel Durban
August 18, 2026
Explore Rookery Bay’s backwaters with a local biologist
See birds return to Rookery Bay’s rookery at sunset on a guided cruise with a biologist captain
Drive your own two-seater Craigcat on a 2.5-hour guided tour of Rookery Bay
Private guided riding through mangroves with time at Keewaydin Island
Ride mangrove tunnels and visit Keewaydin Island with your private guide
Ride 35+ miles of Southwest Florida waterways at your own pace