Unique things to do in Sarasota County

A smiling face will greet you as soon as you arrive at our launch site. We will provide you with ice cold drinking water, a waterproof bag to protect your cellphone, keys, wallet, etc. We'll walk down to the kayak launch area and go over all safety precautions including proper use of your life jacket & provide a detailed paddle lesson. Once we are ready to paddle, we will embark on a two hour kayak adventure exploring beautiful Sarasota Bay and the world famous Lido Key mangrove tunnels. I'll tell you all about the interesting history of our beautiful bay as well as talk to you about the incredible flora and fauna we encounter! If we are lucky, we may even be visited be amazing dolphins and gentle manatees. Then, we will journey through Lido Key's spectacular mangrove tunnels while we learn of their importance to our coastal ecosystem. Once our tour is over, we will send you on your way with memories that will last a lifetime. Important note: I will message you immediately after you book to get your preference on single kayaks or tandems. If I get no response, we will default to all tandems if your group is even numbered, or all tandems and a single if its odd numbered. Other things to note My kayak tour is fun and safe for all ages and skill levels! If your desired date & time is not available, do not hesitate to find us at www.paradiseadventuresfl.com or by calling (941) 275-2971!

Thank you to our lovely customers for making us the most popular kayak tour in Tampa Bay! Our kayaking eco tour explores both the wonderful waters & beautiful beaches of Shell Key Preserve. This is an entirely outdoors experience! We do have to adjust daily tour times to work with the tides+weather so please LET US KNOW if you are only available for the 1 time slot you select. We'll meet everyone at the launch, do introductions, give waterproof bags,& get everyone prepped for kayaking. No experience needed as we'll give everyone a paddling overview! We use primarily double kayaks for ease+comfort. (Your booking time is the planned arrival time. Average water depth 2 feet) After that we'll get launched into Shell Key Preserve! The Preserve is a beautiful shallow environment with tons of wildlife & a very interesting ecosystem which we'll discuss plus the history of the Preserve! From the shallow seagrass flats to the large mangrove islands to the pristine beaches of Shell Key itself we'll try and cover it all! Including traveling through some mangrove tunnels (with friendly tides, primarily Mar-Oct) We'll also look for+talk about some of our incredible wildlife in the Preserve including dolphins, manatees, & other fish & birds! We'll also happily give some places to eat & things to do while you're here! If you enjoy your tour please consider tipping your guide thank you!

After a thorough tutorial and fitting of the bikes we'll make our way immediately out onto the #1 beach in the country. We ride to the Southern-most point, Crescent Beach and Point of Rocks. We share a bit about the area then continue on, making our way all the way to the Northern-most point of the Key, Sunset Point. There is a local gentleman that puts on a flag lowering ceremony complete with Taps on the bugle each night as the sun sets, we stick around to observe this then ride the entire length of the beach back to our starting point. We take plenty of photos throughout and send them at the end so you are sure to have plenty of mementos to remember our adventure! Other things to note Although no special clothes or shoes are necessary to ride, I do recommend wearing something comfortable as we will be on the bikes the entirety of the tour.

This cruise will depart from Jug Creek Marina and include a fabulous nature experience on the way to lunch at Cabbage Key. You'll see the old fishing village of Bokeelia and then cruise the fabulous wilderness of Jug Creek. Dolphin sightings are common in these waters. We will transit Back Bay, Dead Man's Curve, and view the mansion built by the battery magnate, Charles Burgess. Once we exit the Creek, we head across Pine Island Sound past Useppa Island and the world famous Baron Collier Inn, before landing at Cabbage Key. There you can walk the nature trails of the historic island and climb the water tower. You will have an hour and a half to enjoy lunch in the Old House, Cabbage Key's open air restaurant. Following your meal, we will cruise back to Jug Creek Marina. Other things to note This experience will involve getting into and out of a boat at a dock. Payment for the meal at Cabbage Key is not included.

You will meet your guides at Ted Sperling Park, the launch site for the famous Lido Mangrove Tunnels. After a short explanation of the equipment and the paddle, we will launch and practice our skills in a beautiful, shallow bay. Depending on weather conditions, we may paddle to the channel with a goal of paddling with manatees and dolphins. If we do come across them, we will keep our distance and watch them play and frolic. Occasionally, manatees will be curious and will swim up to us. It is such a special experience. Next up, we will head to the mangrove tunnels. We may take a short break at a private beach to stretch our legs before we head into the maze of mangrove tunnels. Your guides will help you navigate the tunnels, pointing out exotic wildlife as you pass. Everyone loves when finding giant hermit crabs and seastars along the way. After paddling though the tunnels and to the hidden lagoon, we will head back to the launch. Your hosts will text photos of your adventure for you to share with friends and family. Other things to note Kids welcome from age 3 and up. Kayaks and paddleboards can be combined on the same tour. If you need a different date, contact us at info@surfitusa.com or call 941-952-8245. We love family groups!

Siesta Key is known for its quartz crystal powdery white sand and beautiful beaches. There's no better way to remember your vacation than with a Beach side mini-photo shoot! Whether you are celebrating a special engagement, or just want to remember your trip, a photo shoot is a great way to save the memories! Each session includes: -30 minute photo shoot on the beach -20+ images edited in color & black and white -Personal online gallery to download images -Copyright release to print -Photos sent within 2 weeks Price charged per person, children under 2 years old are free. For more info, find Lyons Eye Photographer on Insta.

We offer the Ultimate Adventure on our Glass Bottom LED illuminated Kayak Sunset to Night Tours! The extremely powerful self developed underwater light system that we use illuminates the sea floor and sea-life! We'll start off in mangrove canals and then visit mangrove shorelines and look for different species of seabirds & learn about the mangroves and their benefits. Then we'll explore the Amazing grass flats and look for different crustaceans, stingrays and fish. It's also a regular hangout for Manatees as well. Exploring for sea-life on the grass flats and sandbars is fun for everyone with our high powered underwater LED lights! We'll also get amazing views of the Sarasota city skyline and the John Ringling Bridge. With literally nothing to do at night in the Water Sports Industry, our Glass Bottom Kayak LED illuminated Night Tours are perfect for families, friends, large groups, or an unforgettable date night under the stars!

To expedite our response to common questions, please scroll down to the FAQ's section before you contact us – thanks! Cruise along Anna Maria Island to a front-row experience of the most magnificent sunsets in the Gulf of Mexico; lookout for dolphins and other wildlife as we make headway! If weather conditions allow it, we will visit a wildlife refuge island, only accessible by boat. Once on the island, enjoy the company of hundreds of sea birds and sand critters, and capture the most amazing pictures! During our voyage, we will share interesting local knowledge and little-known facts. To complete your trip, take it all in as the Sun sets in the horizon; maybe even get a glimpse of that elusive green flash! The tour ends with a penumbral cruise back to port. FAQ's Q: How much is it for 3 passengers? A: The group rate applies to any number of passengers from 1-6 Q: We are only 2 people, and we are ok with splitting the cost with another group A: We only offer private tours and do not combine groups. Q: What happens if I need to cancel? A: We follow Airbnb’s 24-hr cancelation policy. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, at the discretion of our staff. Q: We have a group of 7 but 2 are small children, can we book this tour? A: Unfortunately, no. The US Coast Guard strictly limits the number of passengers to 6, regardless of age.

Join us on a one-of a-kind electric paddle board adventure to Shell Key Preserve. Electric paddle board a.k.a. eSUP comes with a Bixpy Jet motor and allows us to go farther, see more and have a blast while cruising around! We typically go 4-6 mph, keep your eyes open for dolphins, manatees, cormorants and other wildlife. If you are looking for an experience that is both serene and thrilling, look no further than the motorized paddleboard and hybrid kayak tours with Native e-SUP Adventures at Shell Key. With clear turquoise waters that are warm and inviting, it’s the perfect place to indulge in some much-needed relaxation or dive into the world of adventure. This is a seriously fun, unforgettable experience! On the tour we will complete a 3-mile loop around the preserve, stopping at the pristine beach with crystal clear water for a 15-minute break. Why sit in a kayak, when you can stand up and truly take in all the beauty around you. Whether it is your first time or you are a seasoned pro - we promise you will have a great time exploring Shell Key with our guides. Our boards are what we call "Cruiser Boards" and are very wide and stable. If you've been wanting to give paddleboarding a try, you came to the right place. Motorized paddle board adventure is great for couples and friends, great for groups, great for team building, great for teams.

Take the Adventure of a lifetime! Listing is for 2 hours out on the water driving a jetski. Experience all the wonder that exists in our offshore playground. Experience the wind and ocean spray in your face while you cruise around and enjoy the outdoors. Booking is for 1 jetski which holds up to 2 people. Lido Beach area

Capt Yak is a Veteran owned business. We will explore through and around Mangrove Islands, Beds of Sea Grasses and Sand Bars on Comfortable and Easy Paddling Kayaks. Our Sit-On-Top Kayaks are outfitted with adjustable seats with back support that add comfort and paddling ease to your trip. The seat position also allows you to see the abundant sea life below much better than the old style Sit-In Kayaks. Birds, stingrays, horseshoe crabs, shells, manatees and dolphins are some of the wildlife you may see. Greg, "Capt Yak", will immerse you in this vital eco-system and provide you with information on the abundant wildlife and plant life you will encounter on this 3 hour tour. Your route will be based on the tide and wind to make the paddle as easy and enjoyable as possible. Mid way through the tour we will stop at Shell Key where you can Search for shells, take a stroll, swim or just sit an relax. Shell Key is the largest undeveloped barrier Island in the county and vital to the preserve's ecosystem. With nearly thirty years experience conducting field research and working in the zoo field, Greg has acquired a vast amount of knowledge that crosses over to his passion of kayaking.

We are Shell Key's #1 kayak tour. We provide 2 guides on every tour to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Upon arrival, guests will be offered a paddle instruction, making this experience perfect for both experts and first-timers. We use comfortable sit-inside kayaks and paddle at a leisurely pace through the preserve while I tell about the local history, and wildlife & nature we find along the way. Depending on tidal conditions, we will explore one or more of the hidden mangrove tunnels tucked away in the preserve. Approximately half-way through the tour, we will stop at one of several possible landing sites at the island of Shell Key to stretch our legs, swim, snorkel, or collect shells. After enjoying the island, we will make our way back through the preserve, possibly visiting areas or tunnels we did not see before, always keeping a watchful eye out for dolphins, manatees, and the many species of birds that live in the area. We will arrive back at the launch site approximately 3 hours after launch time. Other things to note Contact me before booking if you need a tandem kayak. Anyone under the age of 12 must be in a tandem with an adult. Children 3 and older are welcome on the tour. If you have any questions or are interested in larger groups, private tours, or other dates, please call, text, or message us before reserving.

A smiling face will greet you as soon as you arrive at our launch site. We will provide you with ice cold drinking water, a waterproof bag to protect your cellphone, keys, wallet, etc. We'll walk down to the kayak launch area and go over all safety precautions including proper use of your life jacket & provide a detailed paddle lesson. Once we are ready to paddle, we will embark on a two hour kayak adventure exploring beautiful Sarasota Bay and the world famous Lido Key mangrove tunnels. I'll tell you all about the interesting history of our beautiful bay as well as talk to you about the incredible flora and fauna we encounter! If we are lucky, we may even be visited be amazing dolphins and gentle manatees. Then, we will journey through Lido Key's spectacular mangrove tunnels while we learn of their importance to our coastal ecosystem. Once our tour is over, we will send you on your way with memories that will last a lifetime. Important note: I will message you immediately after you book to get your preference on single kayaks or tandems. If I get no response, we will default to all tandems if your group is even numbered, or all tandems and a single if its odd numbered. Other things to note My kayak tour is fun and safe for all ages and skill levels! If your desired date & time is not available, do not hesitate to find us at www.paradiseadventuresfl.com or by calling (941) 275-2971!

Thank you to our lovely customers for making us the most popular kayak tour in Tampa Bay! Our kayaking eco tour explores both the wonderful waters & beautiful beaches of Shell Key Preserve. This is an entirely outdoors experience! We do have to adjust daily tour times to work with the tides+weather so please LET US KNOW if you are only available for the 1 time slot you select. We'll meet everyone at the launch, do introductions, give waterproof bags,& get everyone prepped for kayaking. No experience needed as we'll give everyone a paddling overview! We use primarily double kayaks for ease+comfort. (Your booking time is the planned arrival time. Average water depth 2 feet) After that we'll get launched into Shell Key Preserve! The Preserve is a beautiful shallow environment with tons of wildlife & a very interesting ecosystem which we'll discuss plus the history of the Preserve! From the shallow seagrass flats to the large mangrove islands to the pristine beaches of Shell Key itself we'll try and cover it all! Including traveling through some mangrove tunnels (with friendly tides, primarily Mar-Oct) We'll also look for+talk about some of our incredible wildlife in the Preserve including dolphins, manatees, & other fish & birds! We'll also happily give some places to eat & things to do while you're here! If you enjoy your tour please consider tipping your guide thank you!

After a thorough tutorial and fitting of the bikes we'll make our way immediately out onto the #1 beach in the country. We ride to the Southern-most point, Crescent Beach and Point of Rocks. We share a bit about the area then continue on, making our way all the way to the Northern-most point of the Key, Sunset Point. There is a local gentleman that puts on a flag lowering ceremony complete with Taps on the bugle each night as the sun sets, we stick around to observe this then ride the entire length of the beach back to our starting point. We take plenty of photos throughout and send them at the end so you are sure to have plenty of mementos to remember our adventure! Other things to note Although no special clothes or shoes are necessary to ride, I do recommend wearing something comfortable as we will be on the bikes the entirety of the tour.

Situated just 9 miles East of Siesta Key, Myakka River State Park is a sprawling wildlife wonderland that epitomizes "Old Florida" beauty. Our beaches are undeniably breathtaking but most locals will agree: Myakka is a must! On this E-bike adventure we are pretty much guaranteed to see tons of alligators (from a safe distance), deer, numerous types of birds and plant life and possibly even wild boar! My favorite attraction, the canopy walk, allows you to walk on a suspension bridge thru the tree tops to the other end where you can go up another 40 ft., leading you to the most jaw-dropping view you'll encounter this trip. We meet in the parking lot just past the ranger's station (immediately to your left) near the park's entrance (13208 St. Rd. 72) but from there our options are endless! Smooth paved trails, grassy savanna, swampy marsh, nice and easy beginner trails up to a bit more rugged, off the beaten path trails, Myakka has it all! Our bikes average about 40-55 miles per battery charge so we are able to see more of the park than you'd be able to get to otherwise. We provide plenty of photos so this is sure to be an experience you won't soon forget! Other things to note We've thought of pretty much anything you could need! There is a $5 per car park admission fee that is not included but goes to a great cause.

This cruise will depart from Jug Creek Marina and include a fabulous nature experience on the way to lunch at Cabbage Key. You'll see the old fishing village of Bokeelia and then cruise the fabulous wilderness of Jug Creek. Dolphin sightings are common in these waters. We will transit Back Bay, Dead Man's Curve, and view the mansion built by the battery magnate, Charles Burgess. Once we exit the Creek, we head across Pine Island Sound past Useppa Island and the world famous Baron Collier Inn, before landing at Cabbage Key. There you can walk the nature trails of the historic island and climb the water tower. You will have an hour and a half to enjoy lunch in the Old House, Cabbage Key's open air restaurant. Following your meal, we will cruise back to Jug Creek Marina. Other things to note This experience will involve getting into and out of a boat at a dock. Payment for the meal at Cabbage Key is not included.

Siesta Key is known for its quartz crystal powdery white sand and beautiful beaches. There's no better way to remember your vacation than with a Beach side mini-photo shoot! Whether you are celebrating a special engagement, or just want to remember your trip, a photo shoot is a great way to save the memories! Each session includes: -30 minute photo shoot on the beach -20+ images edited in color & black and white -Personal online gallery to download images -Copyright release to print -Photos sent within 2 weeks Price charged per person, children under 2 years old are free. For more info, find Lyons Eye Photographer on Insta.

You will meet your guides at Ted Sperling Park, the launch site for the famous Lido Mangrove Tunnels. After a short explanation of the equipment and the paddle, we will launch and practice our skills in a beautiful, shallow bay. Depending on weather conditions, we may paddle to the channel with a goal of paddling with manatees and dolphins. If we do come across them, we will keep our distance and watch them play and frolic. Occasionally, manatees will be curious and will swim up to us. It is such a special experience. Next up, we will head to the mangrove tunnels. We may take a short break at a private beach to stretch our legs before we head into the maze of mangrove tunnels. Your guides will help you navigate the tunnels, pointing out exotic wildlife as you pass. Everyone loves when finding giant hermit crabs and seastars along the way. After paddling though the tunnels and to the hidden lagoon, we will head back to the launch. Your hosts will text photos of your adventure for you to share with friends and family. Other things to note Kids welcome from age 3 and up. Kayaks and paddleboards can be combined on the same tour. If you need a different date, contact us at info@surfitusa.com or call 941-952-8245. We love family groups!

Kayak and Paddleboard Tour on Siesta Key Away from all the hustle and bustle of Siesta Key, is our favorite local beach, Turtle Beach. It is only a few short miles from the main Siesta Key beach to Turtle Beach and the Sarasota County trolley will drop you right there. Not only is this area such a beautiful and quiet place, it is also a great place to paddle! We start on the intercostal and paddle down a short canal to the Bay. We paddle around the mangrove islands along a bird rookery. We paddle around the mangrove islands of Jim Neville Marine Preserve and then to a "secret" beach. This beach is only accessible by boat so we may have it to ourselves. Such a beautiful place for a quick swim or just stopping for a few moments to relax.

We invite you to experience GypSea Soul Boutique and Studios We offer creative workshops and private Art parties ! All of our workshops are beginner friendly ! We carefully plan each project to ensure that all of our guests can successfully create a beautiful work of art No experience or artistic talent necessary. We employ local artists as instructors . Our instructors are friendly , patient , and hands on knowledgeable . We are here to guide you on your creative journey with step by step instructions and guidance. We are currently offering Resin Art , Glass Collage , Mosaics and Acylic Painting . Most of our projects are coastal theme . All materials and supplies are included in class tuition . However you are welcome to bring your own locally collected treasures to personalize your artwork and memorialize your visit to Florida . You can collect seashells from our local beaches and create your own unique souvenir. No seashells ? No worries ! We have plenty to share ! Students at GypSea Soul can choose from a vast selection of Beads , Buttons , seashells , crushed glass , driftwood, and vintage jewelry . Most projects are built on wood , glass or canvas in sizes that will fit in your suitcase . . We offer private parties for groups of 6 or more . Individual reservations and workshop info on our website thegypseasoul.com

We offer the Ultimate Adventure on our Glass Bottom LED illuminated Kayak Sunset to Night Tours! The extremely powerful self developed underwater light system that we use illuminates the sea floor and sea-life! We'll start off in mangrove canals and then visit mangrove shorelines and look for different species of seabirds & learn about the mangroves and their benefits. Then we'll explore the Amazing grass flats and look for different crustaceans, stingrays and fish. It's also a regular hangout for Manatees as well. Exploring for sea-life on the grass flats and sandbars is fun for everyone with our high powered underwater LED lights! We'll also get amazing views of the Sarasota city skyline and the John Ringling Bridge. With literally nothing to do at night in the Water Sports Industry, our Glass Bottom Kayak LED illuminated Night Tours are perfect for families, friends, large groups, or an unforgettable date night under the stars!

To expedite our response to common questions, please scroll down to the FAQ's section before you contact us – thanks! Cruise along Anna Maria Island to a front-row experience of the most magnificent sunsets in the Gulf of Mexico; lookout for dolphins and other wildlife as we make headway! If weather conditions allow it, we will visit a wildlife refuge island, only accessible by boat. Once on the island, enjoy the company of hundreds of sea birds and sand critters, and capture the most amazing pictures! During our voyage, we will share interesting local knowledge and little-known facts. To complete your trip, take it all in as the Sun sets in the horizon; maybe even get a glimpse of that elusive green flash! The tour ends with a penumbral cruise back to port. FAQ's Q: How much is it for 3 passengers? A: The group rate applies to any number of passengers from 1-6 Q: We are only 2 people, and we are ok with splitting the cost with another group A: We only offer private tours and do not combine groups. Q: What happens if I need to cancel? A: We follow Airbnb’s 24-hr cancelation policy. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, at the discretion of our staff. Q: We have a group of 7 but 2 are small children, can we book this tour? A: Unfortunately, no. The US Coast Guard strictly limits the number of passengers to 6, regardless of age.

You will board my spacious 26-ft World Cat at the Jug Creek Marina. We will head west on the Creek which is lined with mangrove and habitat of dolphin, manatee, herons, egrets and osprey. Along the way we pass under the Stringfellow Road Bridge and pass the Lazy Flamingo restaurant. Further along we enter Back Bay and transit Dead Man"s Curve. You will view the beautiful mansion on Little Bokeelia Island which was built in 1902 by the famous battery magnate, Charles Burgess. When we exit the Creek we enter Pine Island Sound and the vista is amazing: Useppa Island, Cayo Costa, and the Boca Grande Pass. We will return to the Marina via Charlotte Harbor and Shell Cut. You will be amazed at the beauty of Charlotte Harbor and learn about the history, geography and wildlife. On the cruise back you can look out for dolphins, and enjoy relaxing music. Other things to note This experience will involve getting into and out of a boat at a dock.

Join us on a one-of a-kind electric paddle board adventure to Shell Key Preserve. Electric paddle board a.k.a. eSUP comes with a Bixpy Jet motor and allows us to go farther, see more and have a blast while cruising around! We typically go 4-6 mph, keep your eyes open for dolphins, manatees, cormorants and other wildlife. If you are looking for an experience that is both serene and thrilling, look no further than the motorized paddleboard and hybrid kayak tours with Native e-SUP Adventures at Shell Key. With clear turquoise waters that are warm and inviting, it’s the perfect place to indulge in some much-needed relaxation or dive into the world of adventure. This is a seriously fun, unforgettable experience! On the tour we will complete a 3-mile loop around the preserve, stopping at the pristine beach with crystal clear water for a 15-minute break. Why sit in a kayak, when you can stand up and truly take in all the beauty around you. Whether it is your first time or you are a seasoned pro - we promise you will have a great time exploring Shell Key with our guides. Our boards are what we call "Cruiser Boards" and are very wide and stable. If you've been wanting to give paddleboarding a try, you came to the right place. Motorized paddle board adventure is great for couples and friends, great for groups, great for team building, great for teams.