KAYAK LOVERS
The water worth the paddle.
The 15 kayak trips travellers rate highest across the USA, from the clear manatee springs of Crystal River and the bioluminescent bays of Florida to the sea caves of La Jolla and the red-rock canyons below the Hoover Dam. Where to launch, what to book, and which water rewards the paddle.
Clear kayak tour to Shell Key Preserve from Tierra Verde. See underwater life, paddle mangroves, collect shells, spot dolphins and birds.
Most Popular“all four of us in our family enjoyed doing this. Our guide, Les, was excellent. We will do this again the next time we are in Florida.”
Kayak the Colorado River to Emerald Cave with a small group of up to 13, snacks included, and optional Las Vegas hotel pickup.
“Great experience. Michelle was interesting, informed and made sure we were having a good time. When we requested kosher food she was able to accommodate. Not too hard at all”
Paddle the Colorado River from Las Vegas area with a shuttle option, enjoy snacks, and stop at Black Canyon’s Emerald Cave.
“We had the best time on our Kayak tour with Justin. He really made our day good fun and was very informative. It felt like we were hanging out with a friend. We would highly recommend this tour. Snacks and water were provided. I would recommend some water shoes or crocs that you don’t mind…”
Clear kayak eco tour in Rock Springs Emerald Cut (Apopka): small group wildlife spotting with swim options, ~2.5 hours, $115.
“We had a great time and got to see gators and climb a tree. The course bottom of the boat made for an interesting time. Dani was a fun and knowledgeable guide.”
Guided 2-hour kayak tour of Sarasota’s Lido Key mangrove tunnels. Non-motorized paddling for wildlife spotting: manatees, dolphins, birds.
“It was simply great. Our guides Kenny & Ian were knowledgeable and funny. We has some first time kayakers and they would do it again after this experience. We also saw a manatee”
Unguided Salt River kayak float from Saguaro Lake Ranch to Foxtail. Wildlife, wild horses, and a simple 2-hour paddle.
“Did this solo and made some friends. It is unguided this time of year. Staff was friendly at check in and guy who instructed us on safety as well. Lady tipped over and was soaked head to toe about 5 minutes in. Some of us had to stand up and get our legs wet to…”
Relax on a stand-up paddleboard tour in Daytona Beach to look for manatees and dolphins under seven bridges, with gear and lessons.
“The experience said it was a 2 to 3 hour experience but we were given a One hour excursion. It was beautiful but i paid for more time and i did not receive what I paid for.”
Paddle Key West mangrove creeks on a 2-hour eco kayak tour with Lazy Dog Adventures, spotting sea life and birds on quiet water for $80.
“It was wonderful! My husband and I are in our 70’s. We had no problems getting into or out of the kayak due to the efficient set up of the launch and the assistance of the fantastic staff! The guide( Heather) was very knowledgeable about the ocean creatures and actively found specimens of all sorts…”
Clear kayak tours in Crystal River with small groups, 100% clear kayaks, and manatees or Three Sisters springs views by season.
“Dmitri our guide was phenomenal! Despite the super cold weather, and limited sun, we still saw manatees! He was very knowlegable about the area, manatees and we learned so much while having a lot of fun! Highly recommend!”
Half-day sail from Key West for mangrove kayaking and reef snorkeling, with drinks, snacks, and calm sanctuary waters. Sunset option included.
“This was out second time with Danger, and we really enjoyed both outings. Smaller crowds, lovely boat, informative guides, and great time on the water. I appreciated the use of wet suits, it was a thoughtful addition to the experience.”
2-hour guided kayak from Shelter Cove into Broad Creek. Learn marsh ecology, spot dolphins and birds, and paddle easy.
“Experience was pleasant and smooth. The operator was very knowledgeable and took through great places, explained how the sea eco-system works.”
Paddle from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave and the Black Canyon on a guided kayak tour, with snacks and optional Hoover Dam add-ons.
“Beautiful day on the water and scenery was wonderful. Keep up with the guide so you can hear the instructions and points of interest.”
Kayak the Wailua River then hike to Uluwehi Falls on Kauai. Gear provided, muddy jungle trail, about 5 hours. $125.
“Such a fun tour. The kayaking can be a little taxing if you're not used to river kayaking but the hike was very mild, a little elevation. Corey was our and was super knowledgeable about the history of the spots we passed and the plant life”
Kayak the Wailua River and hike to Uluwehi Falls. A guided 5-hour adventure with paddling coaching and a refreshing swim.
“Our tour guide was Zach. He was fantastic! Knew a lot about the culture and land. Also brought a sense of humor to the tour that was welcomed! We even got to see a few bird tricks when he passed a Shama he regularly interacts with.”
Kayak Kailua Bay to Flat or Mokulua Islands, snorkel near Lanikai turtles, and enjoy beach lunch in a small group with gear.
“very friendly. very organized. substantial free lunch. all of the equipment worked well and was well maintained. a slick video to watch beforehand was helpful. the activity was amazing. it was good to get an early start since the water was very calm and there was little wind. both flat island and the other island…”
Every paddle worth taking, place by place.
