Viator Rating : 5 (5771 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.3/10 (Verified Excellent)
St Petersburg
Shell Key Clear Kayak Tour: See Dolphins & More!
120
Overview
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. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (7 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Highlights
Paddle in a Clear Kayak: See the underwater world as you paddle in a 100% clear kayak.
Spot Wildlife: Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and many kinds of birds.
Explore Shell Key Preserve: Discover the beautiful mangroves, beaches, and sandbars.
Visit a Hidden Mangrove Tunnel: Paddle through a secret tunnel surrounded by mangroves (if the water is high).
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love seeing lots of wildlife like dolphins and birds.
-
They enjoy paddling through the clear water and seeing everything below.
-
The tour guides are friendly and know a lot about the area.
-
The clear kayaks make the experience special and fun.
Some people say it can be tiring to paddle for a long time.
-
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, so some are disappointed if they don't see much.
The Journey
Mangrove Tunnels
Delve into the enchanting world of the mangrove tunnels, a hidden labyrinth of waterways formed by the intricate root systems of mangrove trees. These tunnels offer a unique and immersive kayaking experience, guiding you through shaded pathways teeming with marine life. High tides unveil the full splendor of this natural wonder, creating an unforgettable passage through a vibrant ecosystem. Keep an eye out for the diverse array of birds and fish that call these tunnels home, making it a photographer's paradise and a nature lover's dream.
Shell Key Preserve
Discover the untouched paradise of Shell Key Preserve, a pristine barrier island renowned for its white sandy beaches and abundant wildlife. As a protected bird sanctuary, Shell Key is home to a diverse avian population, including white pelicans in winter and roseate spoonbills in summer. Spend time collecting unique shells along the shore, basking in the sun, and immersing yourself in the tranquility of this natural haven. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island provide ample opportunities for dolphin sightings, adding to the magic of this extraordinary destination. Shell Key Preserve offers a serene escape from the everyday, a place where nature's beauty unfolds in all its glory.
Know Before You Go
This clear kayak tour includes all the equipment needed: tandem kayaks, paddles, seats, dry bags, lifejackets, and whistles. It does not include tips for the guide or bottled water, so make sure to bring water. With the tour, you will get to explore the beautiful waters of Shell Key, see amazing views, and keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds.
Hot Tip
Many people say it's best to go early in the morning for calmer water and a better chance to see wildlife. Also, bring sunscreen and a hat because there isn't much shade on the water.
Review Summary
People finds this tour to be an exceptional and memorable experience, praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the comfort and quality of the clear kayaks, and the beautiful scenery of Shell Key Preserve. Many highlight the wildlife sightings, especially dolphins and manatees, and appreciate the ease of access and safety measures. Some mention that the tour can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended, and a few note that wildlife sightings, while common, are not guaranteed.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Crystal River
$74
Swim with Manatees: Crystal River Adventure & Photos!
5.0
(2280 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Manatee Swim Tour with In Water Photographer, located in Kings Bay, Crystal River, Florida, Citrus County, Florida, offers an unforgettable adventure to swim with gentle giants in their natural habitat. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and anyone seeking a unique and ethical wildlife encounter.
What to Expect: Guests will glide through the crystal-clear waters of Kings Bay, a natural warm-water refuge for manatees. With an experienced in-water guide and photographer, participants will have the opportunity to observe and interact with these amazing creatures up close. The adventure ensures a safe and respectful environment for both humans and manatees.
The tour includes the use of safe USCG Certified Boats, bottled water, wetsuit, float noodles, snorkel gear, and an in-water guide/photographer. Note that photos and videos are available for purchase after the tour. With Explorida's commitment to customer experience, this tour promises to be a highlight of any visit to Crystal River.
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.
Florida
$375
Luxury Sarasota Boat Tour: Dolphins, Mansions & Fun!
5.0
(217 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Private Luxury Boat Charter in Sarasota offers a fancy way to see amazing sights! This tour is great for people who want to explore the beautiful waters around Siesta Key and Downtown Sarasota Waterfront in style. Think of it as a private sightseeing adventure on a comfy Sea Ray boat, perfect for families and friends of all ages.
What can guests expect? A fun, guided tour where they'll learn about the local area, see dolphins and manatees, and maybe even catch a beautiful sunset. The boat has soda, snacks, and bottled water, plus a bathroom and a cooler full of ice. It's like having a living room on the water!
This tour includes a verbal guided tour of the local area, soda pop, snacks, bottled water, a bathroom on the boat, and a Yeti cooler full of ice. Please remember to not bring spray sunscreen, dyed tanning lotions, or messy foods/drinks like red wine or Doritos.
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!
Orlando
$99
Rock Springs Clear Kayak Tour: See Underwater!
4.9
(2449 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Rock Springs 2-Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour offers a super cool way to see Rock Springs! This isn't just any kayak trip; it's a chance to peek into the underwater world without even getting too wet. It’s great for anyone who loves nature and wants a fun adventure on the water.
What to Expect: Imagine paddling in a see-through kayak, gliding over the clear waters of Rock Springs Run. You'll start near King's Landing, a popular spot for getting into the water. As you paddle, keep an eye out for wildlife like turtles, birds, and fish. You might even spot an otter or a deer! The tour goes to the Emerald Cut, a beautiful part of the river known for its clear, green water. The guide will share interesting facts about the area as you float along.
This tour includes a 2 to 2.5-hour guided trip in a clear kayak, so you can see everything below. The tour provides quick instructions, multiple stops for photos, and a small group size (up to 10 people) for a more personal experience. The tour does not include gratuities. This experience provides a really unique way to see Rock Springs Run.
Florida
$81.6
Miami Everglades Airboat Tour: Wildlife & Thrill Ride!
5.0
(349 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with the Semi-Private 1-Hour Airboat Tour of Miami Everglades! Glide through the Everglades National Park, a unique ecosystem teeming with incredible wildlife.
This exciting airboat tour takes guests on an unforgettable adventure through the "River of Grass." Expect to see alligators, various bird species, and other native animals in their natural habitat. The tour provides a thrilling ride as the airboat whips and slides across the water, offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder.
The tour includes bottled water to keep everyone hydrated. It excludes restrooms on board and private transportation. This semi-private tour ensures a more intimate experience with a smaller group. See why others rate it highly, with excellent quality and low supplier cancellation rates.
Nearby Events
Duke Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater
Apr 23
7:30 PMTheresa Caputo Live: The Experience in St Petersburg
Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience brings America's most recognized medium to the Duke Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater in St Petersburg on April 23, 2026. Known worldwide for her acclaimed TLC series, Theresa Caputo has captivated audiences for over a decade with her extraordinary ability to connect with spirits and deliver profound messages from the other side. This live event promises an awe-inspiring evening where attendees will witness firsthand the powerful readings and emotional connections that have made Caputo a household name.
Theresa Caputo's journey as a spiritual medium has transformed countless lives, offering closure, healing, and validation to those seeking connections with departed loved ones. Her dynamic stage presence and authentic approach create an intimate atmosphere despite performing in larger venues. The Duke Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater, located in downtown St Petersburg, provides an elegant setting for this unforgettable evening of spiritual insight and personal transformation.
Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Mar 29
7:00 PMAli Wong Live at Dr Phillips Center Orlando
Ali Wong Live at the Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts offers an unmissable comedy experience featuring one of today’s most acclaimed comedians. Known for her bold stand-up specials and Emmy-winning role in the Netflix series Beef, Ali brings her sharp wit and fearless humor to Orlando’s premier arts venue.
Ali Wong has redefined comedy with her brutally honest, feminist perspective on cultural identity and motherhood, winning multiple Emmy and Golden Globe awards. The Dr Phillips Center is a world-class performing arts venue, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and vibrant cultural programming, making it the perfect setting to experience Wong’s dynamic performance.
Plaza Live - Orlando
Apr 16
8:00 PMCalum Scott Live at Plaza Live - Orlando Tickets
Calum Scott returns to the stage at Plaza Live in Orlando, offering fans a soulful evening of emotive pop music. Known for his breakout hit "Dancing on My Own" and powerful ballads like "You Are the Reason," Scott continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his heartfelt performances and recent collaborations such as his 2023 single "Whistle".
Emerging from his Britain's Got Talent success in 2015, Calum Scott has evolved into a globally recognized singer-songwriter with platinum hits and a devoted fanbase. Plaza Live, Orlando's premier intimate concert venue, is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent acoustics, making it the perfect setting to experience Scott's compelling voice and authentic storytelling live.
Kia Center
Apr 29
8:00 PMRomeo Santos & Prince Royce — Kia Center Tickets
Romeo Santos & Prince Royce bring the Mejor Tarde Que Nunca Tour to Kia Center for a high-energy Latin music event headlined by two of bachata's biggest stars. The co-headlining show promises classic Santos and Royce hits, collaborative moments onstage, and a concert experience built for fans of modern bachata and Latin pop.[6][4]
Romeo Santos, famed as the former lead of Aventura and a chart-topping solo artist, and Prince Royce, a multi-platinum singer-songwriter, are touring together after releasing collaborative material and high-profile singles that have reenergized bachata for new audiences; their joint tour packages stadium-level production and fan-favorite setlists.[5][1] Kia Center is a large-capacity indoor arena known for hosting major concerts and touring Latin acts, offering standard arena amenities and accessible seating options for large events.[3][6]
Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
May 01
7:00 PMMatt Mathews: Boujee On A Budget - Orlando
Matt Mathews: Boujee On A Budget comes to Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, bringing the viral TikTok sensation's blockbuster stand-up comedy tour to Florida audiences. The Alabama-born comedian, who rose to fame during the pandemic with farm-themed comedy videos that garnered over a billion views, delivers raw, relatable humor drawn from his life as a farmer, barrel racer, boudoir photographer, and LGBTQ+ trailblazer pushing boundaries in entertainment. His Live Nation-promoted Boujee On A Budget Tour has already sold more than 150,000 tickets across major venues, establishing Mathews as one of comedy's fastest-rising stars.
With over 12 million devoted followers across social media, Mathews has earned recognition from Deadline as one of the "Future of Comedy" and from The Advocate for his unique path in both comedy and entertainment. His live show delivers what fans describe as an unforgettable experience, blending taboo topics and hysterical personal anecdotes that showcase the real and raw Matt Mathews beyond his social media persona. Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando's premier venue for world-class performances, provides the perfect setting for this comedy phenomenon to connect with audiences seeking authentic entertainment and genuine laughs.
Hard Rock Live Orlando
Aug 12
6:00 PMThe Wiggles Tree of Wisdom at Hard Rock Live Orlando
The Wiggles - Tree of Wisdom Spectacular! comes to Hard Rock Live Orlando, offering a vibrant children's theatre experience perfect for families and young audiences. Known for their energetic performances and educational themes, The Wiggles continue to enchant children worldwide with lively songs and engaging storytelling. Hard Rock Live Orlando, located in Universal CityWalk, is celebrated for its intimate yet state-of-the-art setting, ideal for immersive family shows.
The Wiggles are a pioneering children's entertainment group recognized globally for their fun and educational impact on kids’ music and dance. Their latest production, "Tree of Wisdom Spectacular!" emphasizes themes of knowledge and growth, making it both entertaining and meaningful. Hard Rock Live Orlando serves as the perfect venue with its modern acoustics and welcoming atmosphere, nested within the excitement of Universal Orlando Resort.
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