Viator Rating : 5 (384 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.7/10 (Verified Excellent)
Orlando
Silver Springs Kayak Tour: Manatees, Monkeys & More!
120
Overview
Silver Springs Clear Kayak Manatee, Monkey & Wildlife Adventures invites one to explore the underwater world of Silver Springs in a clear kayak. This guided tour offers an amazing opportunity to see manatees, wild monkeys, and many kinds of water birds. Experience one of the best kayak tours in Florida, on one of the most beautiful rivers in the world.
As people paddle through the crystal-clear waters, they can spot fish, turtles, and old movie relics from movies filmed here. Silver Springs' history includes Tarzan and other Hollywood movies. This raw beauty is extravagant, and what better way to experience it than in a clear kayak.
Silver Springs State Park is about 90 minutes from Orlando, making it a great day trip. There are trails for hiking and biking, clear-bottom boat rides, and places to eat. The kayaking is one of the best in Florida, with clear water and abundant wildlife. The park is a national natural landmark. 
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 (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (9 - 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 Manatees and Monkeys: Paddle through the water and see manatees and wild monkeys in their natural home.
Clear Kayaks: Look down and see fish, turtles, and even movie props under the clear water.
Guided Tour: Learn about the history of Silver Springs from an expert guide.
Perfect Day Trip: Only 90 minutes from Orlando, Silver Springs is a great place to spend the day.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love seeing lots of wildlife, like monkeys and manatees.
-
Many enjoy how clear the water is for seeing underwater.
-
Reviewers appreciate the tour guides who are friendly and know a lot about the area.
-
Guests thought that it was worth the money.
Some people wished that the tour was longer.
-
A few reviewers mentioned seeing trash in the water.
The Journey
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is a natural landmark in Florida, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. It features five miles of pristine water, making it ideal for kayaking. The park is rich in history, having served as Florida's first tourist attraction and a filming location for Tarzan movies and other Hollywood productions. It offers a variety of activities, including kayaking tours, hiking, and clear-bottom boat rides, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers.
Orlando
Orlando is a major city in Central Florida and is approximately a 90-minute drive from Silver Springs State Park. While primarily known for its theme parks, Orlando serves as a convenient base for day trips to natural attractions like Silver Springs, offering visitors a mix of entertainment and outdoor adventures. It is an ideal stay if you plan to also visit major theme parks in Florida.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes the use of all equipment, taxes, and fees. Gratuities (tips) are not included. Confirm meeting location details upon booking.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers have stated that if you go early in the morning you may be able to see more manatees and other wildlife.
Review Summary
People find this experience exceptional, with an average rating of 4.6 to 5.0 stars across platforms[1][2][4][8]. Travelers consistently praise the crystal-clear water visibility, knowledgeable and personable guides (particularly Chris, Justin, Steve, and Josh), and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially manatee sightings[1][2][4][7]. The most frequently mentioned strengths include the quality of clear kayaks, professional service, and guides' ability to locate and photograph wildlife while prioritizing safety and environmental care[1][4][7]. Minor concerns include kayak comfort padding and the importance of setting expectations for first-time kayakers regarding what to bring and physical requirements[2][4].
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.
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.
Clearwater
$37
Clearwater Beach: Little Toot Dolphin Adventure!
4.9
(5584 reviews)
Duration: 75
minutes
The Little Toot Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach offers an exciting way to see dolphins in their natural habitat. This tour takes place aboard the Little Toot, a tug boat known for creating a wake that dolphins love to play in.
The tour provides a narrated sightseeing experience of Clearwater Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. Because the boat sits lower to the water, guests can enjoy closer dolphin sightings. Passengers are welcome to move around the boat freely, with options for seating in the sun or shade.
This experience offers a unique opportunity to witness dolphins playing in the wake of the Little Toot. It includes a guided tour of the harbor and gulf, making it a memorable adventure for all ages.
Crystal River
$89.95
Dive into Wonder: Small Group Manatee Swim Tour in Crystal River!
5.0
(808 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Experience a Small Group Manatee Swim Tour in Crystal River with a knowledgeable in-water guide. Enjoy a family-friendly, intimate excursion limited to 6 people. Observe and swim alongside gentle manatees in their natural habitat. All gear provided for an unforgettable adventure. Involves Animals, Swimming, On the Water, Snorkeling, Excellent Quality
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.
Cocoa Beach
$59
Cocoa Beach: Mangrove Tunnels, Dolphins, & Manatee Tour
5.0
(832 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Experience the magic of Cocoa Beach with the #1 rated Mangrove Tunnels, Dolphins, and Manatee Tour by Fin Expeditions. This kayak tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see amazing wildlife and learn about the local ecosystem. Navigate the winding mangrove tunnels, where you might spot playful dolphins or gentle manatees swimming nearby.
What to Expect: Guests will paddle through the calm waters of the Indian River Lagoon, guided by local experts. The tour focuses on the beautiful mangrove tunnels, a unique natural feature of the area. Guides share their knowledge of the area, giving tourists a look into the local ecosystem.
This tour includes high-back seats for comfort, paddles, and life jackets. Guests also receive complimentary photos of their experience and free parking. Knowledgeable guides are with the group the entire time. All kayakers use tandem kayaks, though single kayaks may be available upon request. This tour excludes food and drinks. Join Fin Expeditions for an unforgettable adventure in Cocoa Beach!
Nearby Events
Kia Center
Jun 14
7:30 PMA$AP Rocky Orlando Tickets: Kia Center
A$AP Rocky brings his *Don't Be Dumb World Tour** to the Kia Center in Orlando, delivering a high-energy hip-hop spectacle packed with trap anthems and innovative beats. Following the release of his highly anticipated album *Don't Be Dumb*, this tour showcases Rocky's evolution as a visionary artist blending raw lyricism with psychedelic production, drawing massive crowds eager for hits like 'F**kin' Problems' and 'Praise the Lord'.
Known for his Harlem roots and fashion-forward style, A$AP Rocky has redefined modern rap with critically acclaimed albums like *Live. Love. A$AP* and *Testing*, influencing a generation of artists. The Kia Center, a premier entertainment hub in downtown Orlando, offers state-of-the-art acoustics and seating for an immersive live experience.
Ruth Eckerd Hall
May 21
8:00 PMJosh Gates Live in Clearwater | Ruth Eckerd Hall
Josh Gates brings his legendary adventures to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, Florida for an unforgettable evening of exploration, humor, and discovery. The acclaimed explorer, host, and producer of Discovery Channel's hit series Expedition Unknown takes the stage to share extraordinary tales from his global investigations into archaeological mysteries, historic legends, and paranormal phenomena. With over 200 days spent traveling annually to more than 100 countries, Gates captivates audiences with firsthand accounts of his most thrilling expeditions—from hunting for Amelia Earhart's disappearance to uncovering ancient secrets in remote corners of the world.
Gates is renowned for his unique blend of scientific curiosity, quick wit, and genuine passion for adventure that has made him one of television's most compelling storytellers. His degrees in archaeology and drama from Tufts University, combined with his fellowship in The Explorers Club, position him as both an entertainer and serious investigator of mankind's greatest mysteries. Ruth Eckerd Hall, a premier performing arts venue in Clearwater, provides the perfect setting for this immersive experience.
The BayCare Sound
July 18
7:00 PMMen at Work & Toad the Wet Sprocket at BayCare Sound
Men at Work joins forces with Toad the Wet Sprocket for an electrifying rock concert at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater, FL. This lineup promises a nostalgic dive into 80s and 90s hits, with Men at Work delivering their chart-topping anthems from albums like Business as Usual and Cargo.
Men at Work, the iconic Australian rock band formed in 1979, skyrocketed to fame with massive hits 'Down Under' and 'Who Can It Be Now?', achieving simultaneous No. 1 albums and singles across Australia, the UK, and US charts. Their enduring legacy of catchy sax-driven rock continues to captivate fans worldwide. The BayCare Sound offers an intimate waterfront setting perfect for live music.
Raymond James Stadium
Oct 09
7:00 PMKarol G TropiTour Tampa Tickets
KAROL G - VIAJANDO POR EL MUNDO TROPITOUR lights up Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL, with her signature reggaeton and Latin trap beats that have captivated millions worldwide. As the Colombian superstar behind chart-topping albums like 'Mañana Será Bonito' and hits such as 'TQG' with Shakira, Karol G delivers high-energy performances blending fierce lyrics, infectious rhythms, and stunning visuals that define her global phenomenon status.
Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, offers a massive open-air setting perfect for epic concerts with excellent sightlines and vibrant atmosphere.
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.
Bilheimer Capitol Theatre
Oct 24
8:00 PMBook Tickets: Garrison Keillor & Erica Rhodes at Bilheimer Capitol
Garrison Keillor and Erica Rhodes bring their unique blend of storytelling and music to the historic Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater, Florida. This special event offers an intimate evening showcasing Keillor’s celebrated narrative style combined with Rhodes’ engaging performances, ideal for enthusiasts of literary and musical arts.
Garrison Keillor, famous for his long-running radio show "A Prairie Home Companion," alongside Erica Rhodes, known for her captivating storytelling and musical talent, create a memorable experience that highlights their distinct talents. The Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, one of Florida’s oldest operating theaters since 1921, enhances the ambiance with its classic architecture and modern upgrades including private loge boxes and rooftop terraces, making it a cherished venue in Clearwater’s cultural scene.
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