Viator Rating : 5 (479 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.7/10 (Verified Excellent)
Fort Myers
Kayak Big Hickory Pass: Guided Tour & Shelling Beach
Overview
The 2.5-Hour Guided Group Kayak Tour on Big Hickory Pass offers a fun way to see Southwest Florida's beauty. Paddle through mangrove tunnels in Estero Bay, a great spot for all ages and skill levels. People can bring their own stand-up paddleboards or kayaks. Even dogs are welcome on this adventure!
What can visitors expect? The tour guide grew up in Southwest Florida and loves the beach. They will share their knowledge while kayaking through the beautiful mangroves. Watch for pelicans, herons, and maybe even dolphins or manatees! A short 15-minute paddle leads to a gorgeous, relaxing private beach loaded with shells. All the kayaks and paddleboards are new and of excellent quality.
The tour includes a kayak or SUP board with paddle, a Coast Guard-approved life vest, a dry bag for phones and keys, and a mesh bag for shells. It does not include any food, drinks, or transportation to the meetup location. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
See Amazing Wildlife: Look for dolphins, manatees, herons, and pelicans in their natural habitat.
Paddle Through Mangrove Tunnels: Explore the unique and beautiful mangrove ecosystem of Estero Bay.
Relax on a Private Beach: Discover a secluded beach with plenty of seashells to collect.
All Equipment Included: Enjoy high-quality kayaks or paddleboards, life vests, and bags for your belongings.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing dolphins and other wildlife up close.
-
The guide was knowledgeable and friendly.
-
Many said the private beach was a highlight.
-
Customers were surprised about how beautiful the mangroves are.
Some found the paddling a bit tiring.
-
A few wished for more time on the beach.
The Journey
Estero Bay
Discover the enchanting Estero Bay, a sprawling aquatic preserve on Florida's Gulf Coast renowned for its pristine mangrove tunnels and abundant wildlife. Paddle through these intricate waterways and witness the graceful dance of manatees, the playful leaps of dolphins, and the soaring flights of osprey and pelicans. Estero Bay is a sanctuary for diverse species, offering a unique eco-adventure and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a nature enthusiast, Estero Bay promises an unforgettable experience immersed in Florida's coastal wilderness.
Know Before You Go
This kayak tour includes the use of a kayak or SUP board, paddle, coast guard approved life vest, a dry bag for keys and mobile phones and a mesh bag for shells. It excludes food, drinks and transportation to the meetup location. The meetup location is at the address provided after booking.
Hot Tip
Many visitors recommend bringing water and snacks for the paddle, and wearing sunscreen and a hat to protect from the sun. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the wildlife!
Review Summary
People find this 2.5-hour Guided Group Kayak Tour on Big Hickory Pass highly enjoyable for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, well-maintained and high-quality equipment, and the chance to see diverse local wildlife such as manatees and dolphins. Reviewers often praise the serene paddling through mangrove tunnels and the visit to a secluded, shell-rich private beach. Some minor critiques mention the physical demand of paddling for beginners, but most travelers appreciate the well-organized, educational, and scenic experience.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
St Petersburg
$79
Shell Key Clear Kayak Tour: See Dolphins & More!
5.0
(5771 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area lets visitors adventure through Shell Key Preserve in a 100% clear kayak! Guests can see crystal-clear water, lots of sea life, and the underwater world below. This is a kayaking adventure tour great for people who love nature and want to see wildlife.
The tour includes paddling along mangroves, enjoying white sand beaches and sandbars, and exploring a secluded beach. If the water is high, the guide will lead the group through a hidden mangrove tunnel in Shell Key Preserve near St. Pete Beach. Shell Key Preserve offers views of dolphins, manatees, pelicans, crabs, and more while enjoying the pretty mangroves and beaches. Look for manatees or pink Roseate Spoonbills in the summer. White Pelicans live on the sandbars in the winter. Dolphins swim in the clear water all year, and cormorants like to swim by the kayaks. There are chances to see wildlife, but it's not a sure thing.
This tour gives people a close look at nature and a fun time on the water. This clear kayak tour is an unforgettable way to see Shell Key Preserve's beauty. The tour includes kayaks, paddles, seats, dry bags, lifejackets, and whistles, but does not include tips or bottled water.
St Petersburg
$80.25
St. Pete Sunset & Skyway Light Show Boat Cruise
4.9
(1831 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show - 3hr Boat Cruise in St. Pete offers an unforgettable evening on the water. This scenic boat tour, perfect for families and sightseers, explores the beautiful St. Pete Waterfront Estates, Gulf Port, and Pinellas Bayway Bridge.
What to Expect: The adventure begins with a relaxing cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway and Shell Key Preserve, known for dolphin sightings. The boat will stop at Sand Dollar Island (Outback Key), for shelling and sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico. As night falls, experience the Skyway Bridge's spectacular $15 million light show.
The cruise includes access to an on-board bar and restroom. Outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted. This catamaran cruise provides a unique perspective of St. Pete's beauty.
Naples
$69.99
Naples' Biologist-Led Kayak Adventure: Explore Mangrove Tunnels & Mudflats!
5.0
(781 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Join local biologist guides for a kayak tour through Rookery Bay Reserve, a top-rated US kayaking destination. Paddle through mangrove tunnels and mudflats, spotting wildlife. Enjoy free HD photos. Perfect for all skill levels, this unique tour offers an immersive exploration of Southwest Florida's backwaters with expert biologists.
Naples
$475
Shelling & Dolphin Tour: 10,000 Islands Adventure!
5.0
(332 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion takes guests on a memorable adventure through the beautiful waters of The 10,000 Islands and Everglades National Park Mangrove Forest. This private tour offers an intimate experience, away from the crowded tourist spots, at a similar cost.
Guests can expect to see wild dolphins swimming and playing up close. The boat then stops at secluded barrier islands covered in beautiful and unique seashells. Everyone can fill buckets with shells to take home – a perfect souvenir! This 2.5-hour trip is great for families with kids and groups of friends who want to explore The 10,000 Islands. This tour includes bottled water, buckets, and bags for collecting shells, and a cooler filled with ice. It excludes snacks, a $10 parking fee, and towels.
Explore the Everglades National Park Mangrove Forest, one of the key stops along this adventure. The tour gives everyone a chance to see nature up close and collect amazing shells. It’s a fun and easy way to experience the beauty of the 10,000 Islands!
Fort Myers
$65
Dolphin & Manatee Adventure Tour - Fort Myers Waterways!
4.9
(2142 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Fort Myers takes people on a fun trip to see cool sea creatures in Fort Myers Waterways! It's an adventure that anyone can enjoy, no matter how good they are at paddle boarding. Fort Myers is one of the few places where you can see West Indian Manatees, so it's a special treat! People from kids to grandparents have all had a blast on these tours.
Get ready to see dolphins and manatees up close! The tour guides know a lot about the area and the animals, so people can learn a lot. The tour provides paddle boards, paddles, and life vests. Just bring yourself and get ready for some fun! The tour does not include other things.
This amazing tour has even been on TV! The Travel Channel called it one of the best tour companies on the East Coast. Because it's so popular, the tours get filled up fast. So, book your Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour today!
Sarasota
$71.43
Sunset Electric Bike Adventure: Siesta Key's Unforgettable Ride
4.9
(1072 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour offers a unique exploration of America's top beach. Effortlessly glide with pedal-assist or throttle, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Enjoy the sunset views with provided bottled water and safety gear. An exceptional way to experience Siesta Key's beauty.
Nearby Events
Kia Center
May 13
8:00 PMDiljit Dosanjh Aura Tour 2026 Kia Center Tickets
Diljit Dosanjh brings his *Aura World Tour 2026** to the Kia Center in Orlando, delivering a high-energy blend of Punjabi pop, bhangra beats, and global hits that have captivated millions. Known for sold-out shows on his previous tours and hits from albums like *G.O.A.T.* and *Crew*, Diljit showcases his signature charisma, live instrumentation, and crowd-surfing vibes that turn arenas into unforgettable celebrations.
Diljit Dosanjh, a trailblazing Punjabi superstar, has risen from Punjabi roots to international fame with record-breaking Coachella performances, Netflix films like *Jatt & Juliet*, and billions of streams across platforms. The Kia Center, a state-of-the-art arena opened in 2010 with 18,500 capacity, has hosted icons like Taylor Swift and Paul McCartney[2][6].
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Mar 25
8:00 PMCeltic Woman A New Era at Ruth Eckerd Hall
Celtic Woman brings their captivating *A New Era** tour to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, FL, fusing signature Celtic harmonies with fresh orchestrations, dynamic stage production, and Irish dancers for an energetic celebration of Ireland's heritage.[1] The GRAMMY-nominated ensemble delivers breathtaking vocals, stirring originals, and classics on bagpipes, bodhran, whistles, and Uilleann pipes, marking a bold 21-year milestone.
Renowned for blending Irish classics, contemporary favorites, and classical masterpieces, Celtic Woman honors centuries of musical tradition through four extraordinary performers.[1] Ruth Eckerd Hall, a premier Tampa Bay venue, offers world-class acoustics for this unforgettable evening.[7]
Kia Center
Apr 13
8:00 PMDemi Lovato Concert Tickets: It's Not That Deep Tour
Demi Lovato brings the 'It's Not That Deep Tour' to Kia Center in Orlando, offering fans an unforgettable night of pop music excellence. The Grammy-nominated artist's electrifying performance promises hit songs, stunning production, and the intimate connection that defines Lovato's live shows.
Demi Lovato stands as one of pop music's most compelling performers, known for powerful vocals and authentic storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide. Kia Center, Orlando's premier entertainment destination, has hosted countless world-class concerts and welcomes over 1.3 million patrons annually, making it the ideal setting for this marquee pop event.[1][2]
Vinoy Park
Apr 11
12:30 PMTampa Bay Blues Fest Saturday: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Live
Tampa Bay Blues Festival at Vinoy Park showcases Saturday headliner Kenny Wayne Shepherd alongside Jimmie Vaughan, Charlie Musselwhite, and Nikki Hill in a powerhouse lineup of blues mastery.[2][3] This 30th anniversary event delivers electrifying performances from Grammy-nominated Shepherd, known for hits like 'Blue on Black,' Texas blues legend Jimmie Vaughan, harmonica icon Charlie Musselwhite, and soulful Nikki Hill, all amid a day of roots music from noon to 10 p.m.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd's high-energy guitar riffs and Jimmie Vaughan's Stevie Ray Vaughan-inspired grooves join Charlie Musselwhite's raw Delta blues and Nikki Hill's dynamic vocals to celebrate American blues heritage, drawing fans worldwide to this premier festival.[1][5][6] Vinoy Park offers acres of lush grass, palm trees, and stunning Tampa Bay waterfront views, recently re-landscaped for an idyllic live music paradise.[5]
Kia Center
May 29
8:00 PMWeird Al: Bigger & Weirder Tour at Kia Center!
Get ready for "Weird Al" Yankovic's Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour, a comedic and musical extravaganza at the Kia Center in Orlando. Fresh off his recent successes, including the critically acclaimed biopic and continued musical parodies, "Weird Al" promises an evening of hilarious lyrics, polka beats, and unforgettable stage presence. This show is part of his unique tour, blending classic hits with new surprises, ensuring fans both old and new will be thoroughly entertained.
"Weird Al" Yankovic has solidified his place as a pop culture icon, known for his clever parodies and energetic performances. The Kia Center, a premier entertainment venue in Orlando, provides a state-of-the-art setting for this unique concert experience, known for hosting big names and delivering quality entertainment.
Benchmark International Arena
Jun 19
8:00 PMJosh Groban & Jennifer Hudson Tampa Tickets
Josh Groban with special guest Jennifer Hudson lights up Benchmark International Arena in a powerhouse pop and adult contemporary showcase from their 'Two Legendary Voices, One Unforgettable Evening' tour. This collaboration unites Groban's soaring tenor, known from hits like 'You Raise Me Up' and recent albums blending classical crossover with pop, alongside Hudson's Grammy-winning powerhouse vocals from 'Spotlight' and her iconic American Idol journey, promising an evening of emotional anthems and duets.[1][2]
Josh Groban, a multi-platinum artist with over 25 million albums sold worldwide, pairs perfectly with Jennifer Hudson, the EGOT winner celebrated for her soul-stirring performances in Dreamgirls and beyond. Benchmark International Arena, Tampa's premier entertainment hub, offers state-of-the-art acoustics for this vocal spectacle.[1][2]
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Tampa
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Tampa From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Private Drivers & Sports in Tampa. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Tampa Activities