St. Pete Beach offers a variety of kayak river paddle boat tours, providing visitors with unique opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty. These tours, located within a short distance from St. Pete Beach, offer experiences through mangrove tunnels, wildlife preserves, and along the Gulf of Mexico. Operators like Coastal Kayak Charters, Island Kayak Adventures, and St Pete Kayaking provide guided tours that cater to different skill levels and interests, making them accessible to both beginners and experienced kayakers.
What Are the Best Kayak Tour Locations Near St. Pete Beach?
Several excellent kayak tour locations are situated close to St. Pete Beach, offering diverse experiences for paddlers:
- Shell Key Preserve: A popular destination for many tours, known for its:
- Mangrove islands
- White sand beaches
-
Diverse marine life (dolphins, manatees, shore birds)
-
Tierra Verde: Launch point for multiple tour operators, approximately:
- 15 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg
-
10 minutes from St. Pete Beach
-
Pass-A-Grille: Some tours depart directly from this area within St. Pete Beach
What Types of Kayak Tours Are Available?
Visitors can choose from a variety of kayak tour options:
- Eco-Tours: Focus on exploring the natural environment and wildlife viewing
- Sunset Tours: Offer a unique experience of paddling during sunset
- Mangrove Tunnel Explorations: Navigate through intricate mangrove ecosystems
- Clear Kayak Tours: Some operators offer tours with transparent kayaks for enhanced underwater viewing
- Nighttime Tours: Unique experiences with LED-lit kayaks for nocturnal adventures
How Long Do Kayak Tours Usually Last?
Most kayak tours in the St. Pete Beach area have similar durations:
| Tour Operator | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Kayak Charters | 3 hours | $49 per person |
| Island Kayak Adventures | 3 hours | $45 per person |
| St Pete Kayaking | 3 hours | $54-$59 per person |
| Get Up and Go Kayaking | 3 hours | $64 per person |
What’s Included in a Typical Kayak Tour Package?
Kayak tour packages generally include:
- High-quality kayaks (single or double)
- Life jackets
- Paddles
- Guided instruction
- Dry bags (on some tours)
- Signaling devices (on some tours)
Some operators, like Get Up and Go Kayaking, offer clear kayaks for an enhanced viewing experience.
Are These Kayak Tours Suitable for Beginners?
Most kayak tours near St. Pete Beach are designed to accommodate beginners:
- Tours are generally fun, safe, and informative for all skill levels
- Guides provide instruction and support throughout the tour
- Stable, user-friendly kayaks are used to ensure comfort and ease of use
However, some tours may require a moderate level of physical fitness due to the distance paddled (e.g., St Pete Kayaking’s 4-mile paddle).
What Wildlife Might You See on These Kayak Tours?
Kayak tours in the St. Pete Beach area offer opportunities to observe various wildlife:
- Dolphins
- Manatees
- Rays
- Shore birds (various species)
- Fish (through clear kayaks or in shallow waters)
Guides often provide information about the local ecosystem and the animals you might encounter.
Are There Any Unique Features of St. Pete Beach Kayak Tours?
Several unique features set St. Pete Beach kayak tours apart:
- Mangrove Tunnels: Many tours include exploration of intricate mangrove ecosystems
- Shell Key Preserve: A protected area offering pristine beaches and diverse wildlife
- Clear Kayaks: Some operators offer transparent kayaks for enhanced underwater viewing
- LED Night Tours: Unique nighttime experiences with illuminated kayaks
- Small Group Sizes: Many operators focus on intimate, small group experiences
- Eco-Friendly Approach: Some tours emphasize minimizing environmental impact
What Should You Bring on a Kayak Tour?
While tour operators provide essential equipment, it’s recommended to bring:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Water shoes or sandals
- Waterproof camera (optional)
- Change of clothes
- Towel
- Drinking water
Are There Kayak Rental Options Near St. Pete Beach?
For those preferring self-guided experiences, several rental options are available near St. Pete Beach:
- Island Marine Rentals (Indian Shores): Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals
- Florida Kayak Outfitter (Seminole): Provides kayak rentals
- Makin’ Waves Jet Ski and Beach Rentals (Clearwater Beach): Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals
These rental locations typically provide high-quality kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. Some may also offer guided tour recommendations.
How Do You Choose the Right Kayak Tour for You?
Consider the following factors when selecting a kayak tour:
- Skill Level: Choose a tour that matches your kayaking experience
- Physical Fitness: Some tours may be more strenuous than others
- Interests: Select a tour that aligns with your interests (wildlife, photography, etc.)
- Group Size: Decide if you prefer a more intimate experience or a larger group setting
- Time of Day: Consider whether you’d prefer a daytime, sunset, or nighttime tour
- Budget: Tour prices vary, so choose one that fits your budget
- Special Features: Some tours offer unique experiences like clear kayaks or LED night tours
By considering these factors, you can select a kayak tour that best suits your preferences and ensures an enjoyable experience exploring the waters near St. Pete Beach.
References:
- https://www.coastalkayakcharters.com
- https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/things-to-do/canoeing-kayaking
- https://getupandgokayaking.com/locations/tampa-bay/shell-key-preserve-tour/
