Kayak Tours
Naples & Marco Island Guided Kayak Tours
Join Southwest Florida’s only team of local biologist guides for guided kayak tours near Naples and Marco Island through the protected waters of Rookery Bay Reserve. Explore calm backwaters, winding mangrove tunnels, and expansive mudflats while learning about the wildlife, ecology, and conservation history that makes this one of Southwest Florida’s most unique outdoor experiences.
Our Kayak Tours
- Kayak Activities
Mangrove Tunnels & Mudflats Kayak Tour
- Kayak Activities
Heart of the Rookery Bay Kayak Tour
- Kayak Activities
Sunset Bird Rookery Kayak Tour
Why Rising Tide Explorers?
Biologist-Led Tours
Explore the beautiful waters with active local biologists who bring the wildlife, ecology, and conservation history of Southwest Florida to life.
Minutes from Naples & Marco Island
Guided kayak tours through protected mangrove estuaries conveniently located near both destinations
Partners with Friends of Rookery Bay
Our partnership with Friends of Rookery Bay helps support environmental education, research, and conservation throughout Southwest Florida.
Beginner & Family Friendly
Offering calm water routes, small groups & free photos! No prior kayak experience needed.
Kayak Tour Details
- Duration: 2 – 3 Hours
- Launch Times: 9:00AM; 12:30PM & Sunset tours resume seasonally
- Departure Locations:
- Isle of Capri Paddlecraft Park
- Shell Island Road – Call to reserve
- Included: Complimentary HD PHOTOGRAPHY
Photos from Our Naples & Marco Island Kayak Tours
Naples & Marco Island's Most Unique Guided Kayak Tours
Get ready for an adventure unlike any other! Experience one of the most unique guided kayak tours near Naples and Marco Island with Rising Tide Explorers. Led by our real local biologist guides, our tours explore the protected estuaries of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, including winding mangrove tunnels, quiet backwaters, oyster reefs, protected rookery islands, and expansive mudflats. Along the way, guests may encounter dolphins, manatees, wading birds, sea stars, iconic giant marine snails, and other wildlife that makes Southwest Florida such a remarkable place to paddle. Complimentary photos are included so you can stay focused on the experience while we help capture the memories.
Local Wildlife
Our biologist guides are specially trained to help you spot as much wildlife as possible throughout the journey. With every encounter they will share with you the incredible stories of adaptation and survival that go beyond common knowledge to unveil the amazing intricacies of the unique local wildlife. As biologists, we’ve spent years learning about how these plants and animals have adapted to survive in the estuary, so be sure to take advantage of your time with these ‘science nerds’ and ask as many questions as you’d like! Biologists are just kids who never grew up, so bring your curiosity and share in their passion for this amazing place and its wildlife on a kayak tour in Naples & Marco Island.
Kayak Tour Departure Information
Our guided kayak tours depart from launch locations near both Naples and Marco Island, including Isle of Capri Paddlecraft Park and Shell Island Road. Your confirmation email will include the exact meeting location, arrival time, and any tour-specific instructions.
- Time: Launch Times are daily at 9:00AM, 12:30PM, and Sunset
- Summer Hours: May- October; 9AM ONLY
- Group Size: Maximum 12 guests (call for larger parties)
- Photos: FREE PHOTOGRAPHY sent directly to your inbox
- Provided: Paddling Equipment, Dry Bags, Photography
- What to Bring: Water, Sun Protection, Bug Repellent, Water Friendly Clothing, Snacks
- Cancellation & Rescheduling: You may voluntarily reschedule or cancel your tour 72 hours prior to departure at no charge. See FAQ page for full details.
- Gratuities Customary
