This was our first time kayaking, Scott and his wife were amazing! The mangroves were beautiful. We got to see a pair of dolphins and several sand dollars! We had an amazing time and highly recommend booking a kayak adventure with them! They were also very knowledgeable and we learned...read moreThis was our first time kayaking, Scott and his wife were amazing! The mangroves were beautiful. We got to see a pair of dolphins and several sand dollars! We had an amazing time and highly recommend booking a kayak adventure with them! They were also very knowledgeable and we learned a lot on our excursion!read less
Andrea
7/01/2021
Great adventure for people of all levels. Scott is a great guide. Recommend for anyone!
Camille
6/29/2021
This experience was so much fun! Scott was so friendly and shared so many great facts about the area. Highly recommend! We will definitely book this again if we come back to the area.
Jordan
6/28/2021
Everyone should experience this, it was so beautiful and well worth the money. Scott was wonderful!
Mindi
6/28/2021
Great tour! Learned a lot.
Kathryn
6/25/2021
Highly recommend. Took my son out who has never kayak in salt water or through mangroves. Although it was a bit of a work out for him. He dis admitted to it being a great experience and he got to see his dolphin. It was a perfect day that truly...read moreHighly recommend. Took my son out who has never kayak in salt water or through mangroves. Although it was a bit of a work out for him. He dis admitted to it being a great experience and he got to see his dolphin. It was a perfect day that truly made for a great memory. Scott was amazing they really go above and beyond. A must if your in the area. We will definitely come back for round 2.read less
Richard
6/25/2021
Scott and Karissa were both welcoming and got to know everyone in the group. They made an effort to point out and education us on the local wildlife and history of the area. Highly recommend and we plan to do this tour again in the future!!
Ariana
6/25/2021
This is a must do experience!!!!
Amanda
6/24/2021
Scott and Karissa were amazing hosts. Lots of great information and friendly conversation. We got to see beautiful mangroves, birds, crabs and scenery and then take our time heading back. We highly recommend this tour.
Amanda
6/24/2021
Very exciting and beautiful experience!
Nathalie
6/23/2021
Great way to spend a few hours, learn about the area, and enjoy Florida’s splendid wildlife. We saw a manatee, dolphins, lots of birds. Scott is a great guide - extremely knowledgeable with a sense of humor. I’d definitely do this again. Highly recommended.
Gina
6/23/2021
Both Scott and Karissa are so awesome!! Great stories from Scott that the kids loved. Dolphin siting, awesome shells, and the kids loved the birds diving for fish the entire way. HUGE tanks to Karissa for hanging with my 10 year old and I as we battled the wind in...read moreBoth Scott and Karissa are so awesome!! Great stories from Scott that the kids loved. Dolphin siting, awesome shells, and the kids loved the birds diving for fish the entire way. HUGE tanks to Karissa for hanging with my 10 year old and I as we battled the wind in the beginning. She was more than patient and easy to talk with. Our family will for sure return to this kayaking adventure on our next family vacation to Florida. Again, thank you both for an awesome experience.read less
Summer
6/22/2021
Such a great experience and the highlight of our trip with our 19yo son. The Mangrove tunnels are magical! Now we’ve learned to kayak we want to go out on our own next time.
Jerilyn
6/21/2021
Had a great time! Scott clearly has a love of kayaking through the reserve and does a great job sharing that with his guests. He's also super prompt in answering any questions ahead of time.
Brett
6/11/2021
Awesome trip. Hosts great, knowledgeable of area, Equipment good. So glad we did this. Can’t say enough good things
Robin
6/11/2021
Kayak trip! What a great kayak trip. We learned so much from Scott!!! Perfect amount of paddling and shell searching.
347sandyk
1/29/2023
Take this tour! For us, kayaking thru mangroves & understanding from Scott, our guide, how they’re formed was just the best! Scott and his wife Carissa, both grew up here and shared their deep knowledge of the area. Learning that the island we paddled to wasn’t even there 50 years ago...read moreFor us, kayaking thru mangroves & understanding from Scott, our guide, how they’re formed was just the best! Scott and his wife Carissa, both grew up here and shared their deep knowledge of the area. Learning that the island we paddled to wasn’t even there 50 years ago - that it had been formed by weather over that short amount of time - really kind of blew our minds. Then, to be able to spend time combing Shell Key was so much fun. You’d be hard pressed to find a better way to spend three hours of your time. Could not recommend it highly enough.read less
Jim H
1/19/2023
Amazing kayak tour led by a local Scott and his wife were absolutely amazing tour guides on the kayak tour that I took with my daughter this week. My daughter and I are proficient paddlers and we appreciated that fact that Scott was able to make the tour enjoyable for people of any ability level. He did...read moreScott and his wife were absolutely amazing tour guides on the kayak tour that I took with my daughter this week. My daughter and I are proficient paddlers and we appreciated that fact that Scott was able to make the tour enjoyable for people of any ability level. He did a very quick and efficient introduction to paddling and we were off right away on our about 4-mile round trip paddle to Shell Key. Both of them did a great job of striking up conversation with us and giving us all kinds of tidbits about the wildlife and history of the area. Scott grew up there and has a wealth of knowledge that I can't think that others doing similar kayak tours would have. I would highly recommend the tour and it simply can't be beat for the price ($39 per person plus tax).read less
blankind
1/04/2023
Must to excursion Fantastic experience. Quality kayaks, great beginner lessons, beautiful area and knowledgeable tour guides. Highly recommend this excursion.
225melindab
1/01/2023
Beautiful sunset kayak tour with kids My daughters—ages 7, 11, and 15—and I did the 3 pm sunset tour last night, and it was such a great experience. The highlights were playing in the waves and shelling on Shell Key, and of course the mangrove tunnels. But that sunset was something to behold! I would recommend...read moreMy daughters—ages 7, 11, and 15—and I did the 3 pm sunset tour last night, and it was such a great experience. The highlights were playing in the waves and shelling on Shell Key, and of course the mangrove tunnels. But that sunset was something to behold! I would recommend an earlier trip or a good nap for younger children. My 7-yr-old got very overwhelmed on the way back to the kayaks after visiting the beach, but everyone was so kind about it and she calmed quickly once we were back on the water. My older kids were so thrilled with sharing their photos and showing off their shells from the tour. I can’t say enough about this experience. I am certain it will be the highlight of our vacation! Thank you!read less
clester20
12/31/2022
A great tour We had an amazing time on this trip! Kayaking through the mangroves was an unforgettable experience. We had plenty of time to wander around shell key and hunt for shells. Scott was a great guide and was very friendly and knowledgeable about the area. One of the best tours we’ve done!
TLWTraveler
12/30/2022
Beautiful tour with knowledgeable guides This kayak tour was exactly what we were looking for. Serene and beautiful with knowledgeable guides. I’ve never kayaked in a mangrove and that was definitely a highlight. The time out of the kayak and on a beach for exploring and shell collecting was welcome after being in the kayak...read moreThis kayak tour was exactly what we were looking for. Serene and beautiful with knowledgeable guides. I’ve never kayaked in a mangrove and that was definitely a highlight. The time out of the kayak and on a beach for exploring and shell collecting was welcome after being in the kayak for a while. We saw some wildlife and a gorgeous sunset too. Even our teenager was engaged in the entire outing! Highly recommend!read less
PJFGA
12/29/2022
Natural, adventurous and educational Dolphins galore, herons, cormorants, and more, this is a very fun paddle of 1.5 miles each way but at a very doable pace..and you get to rest at the beautiful Shell Key.
95barbaral
12/22/2022
Learned a lot, great value, fun outing! We were a group of 4 adults and one 5-year-old. The tour was PERFECT for us, which included both locals and out-of-towners. Scott was super knowledgeable about everything and you can sense his joy in sharing the area and teaching us about the geography and the wildlife. This tour was...read moreWe were a group of 4 adults and one 5-year-old. The tour was PERFECT for us, which included both locals and out-of-towners. Scott was super knowledgeable about everything and you can sense his joy in sharing the area and teaching us about the geography and the wildlife. This tour was an incredible value as we learned a ton, had a great time, the cost was incredibly reasonable, and we were very happy to support a local small business.read less
Joel G
12/19/2022
nicest people with great fun kayak tour fun outdoor kayak tour guides (husband & wife) sweetest folks who know the area quite well & the wild life, kayak to an island, walk around for a bit on the sandy beach, then kayak back to the causeway
colleencclark
12/02/2022
Pam My girlfriend and I went on this guided tour. This was the first time my friend ever kayaked. They were very patient with us and helped us in and out of the Kayak. Scott and Karissa were very knowledgeable of the history of the land and sea and pointed out...read moreMy girlfriend and I went on this guided tour. This was the first time my friend ever kayaked. They were very patient with us and helped us in and out of the Kayak. Scott and Karissa were very knowledgeable of the history of the land and sea and pointed out all the wildlife. We saw Komarants, dolphins, a shark, many other birds and even a pigmy octopus. I loved Shell Key Island. I highly recommend this tour. Thank youread less
pamm403
11/13/2022
Best Kayak Tour Scott and Karissa were great guides. They were knowledgeable of the area, wildlife, and history. The mangroves were beautiful and Shell Key is breathtaking. We saw dolphins playing a couple times, plus all kinds of birds, fish, etc. We would recommend this tour for all ages...read moreScott and Karissa were great guides. They were knowledgeable of the area, wildlife, and history. The mangroves were beautiful and Shell Key is breathtaking. We saw dolphins playing a couple times, plus all kinds of birds, fish, etc. We would recommend this tour for all ages and would do it again ourselves.read less
megankL7598BJ
11/03/2022
Amazing adventure to pristine beach and enchanting mangroves! This is our 2nd time on this adventure. We had a great day on the water filled with expert commentary on the surroundings and wildlife, sprinkled with just the right amount of personal stories and memories. The adventure provides just enough time on the island for shelling & swimming and...read moreThis is our 2nd time on this adventure. We had a great day on the water filled with expert commentary on the surroundings and wildlife, sprinkled with just the right amount of personal stories and memories. The adventure provides just enough time on the island for shelling & swimming and a respite in the shade of the mangroves is a welcome bonus on the way back to the launch. The kayaking was easygoing even for beginners. The best part is that the guides are genuinely kind and want you to have the best possible experience. Loved it!read less
G2759SDlorib
10/30/2022
Best ever!! This is the best kayak tour for the price. Scott and Carissa are so knowledgeable and I love how they add their personal experience! I’ve gone with them several times and it’s always such a fantastic day!
Tour08084115651
10/29/2022
Awesome kayaking experience!!! We had an awesome kayaking experience! This was my first time ever kayaking and my husband hasn't been in a kayak since Scouts which has been a minute. It was so cool watching the birds follow us and dive for fish. I love shelling so I wish we would have...read moreWe had an awesome kayaking experience! This was my first time ever kayaking and my husband hasn't been in a kayak since Scouts which has been a minute. It was so cool watching the birds follow us and dive for fish. I love shelling so I wish we would have had more time on Shell Key or maybe we could have "parked" the kayaks closer to the "good shelling" area which I heard was at the other end of the island. Kayaking through the mangrove trees was amazing and it was nice to hang out in the shade for a few minutes. Scott and Karissa were excellent hosts and very personable. Scott led the tour and was very informative throughout. Would definitely recommend this tour and we would love to do it again when back in the area. Oh yeah don't forget sunscreen and water!read less
mrP2353PT
10/19/2022
best time eve! tour and tour guides were fantastic!!!
Kelly Simonis
10/25/2022
We had a blast today! First time kayakers and they made it easy! We loved the shell beach and the mangroves. Perfect end to our week here in Florida! Highly recommended!
Kristy Smith-Verfaillie
10/21/2022
Amazing experience led by Scott who is a local and who tells you so much about the area. Extremely knowledgeable on the wildlife and the area. The tour was extremely well organised, felt safe and special all the time and had some relaxing time on Shell island. Highly recommend it !
Celine Warren
8/12/2022
Scott was our guide and he did an amazing job. We were supposed to go Tuesday but high winds made us reschedule, which was super easy to do. On the way to the mangroves, we were able to watch a dozen snatch fish out of the water and gulp them...read moreScott was our guide and he did an amazing job. We were supposed to go Tuesday but high winds made us reschedule, which was super easy to do. On the way to the mangroves, we were able to watch a dozen snatch fish out of the water and gulp them down. Then we went through 2 mangrove tunnels before heading to shell key. Scott parked us in a little lagoon and we had about an hour on the preserve. On the way back we passed a couple dolphins in two different locations. The whole time, Scott told stories about the area and checked to see if everyone was okay in the groups of 13-15 people. You can tell he truly loves this area. Fantastic tour and I recommend it to any one who can kayak the 2-3 miles that it takes, which actually wasn’t overly strenuous. 10/10 experience 🙂🙂🐬🐬read less
Mike Herman
7/14/2022
What a great experience!!! Scott is so knowledgeable and shared so many facts and stories that made this tour so much fun! Kayaking through the mangroves was something we’d never done and the Shell Key Preserve was beautiful! It was a great way to spend a part of our Girls Getaway!
Sandy Izzo
6/29/2022
What wonderful adventure! My family and I (2 adults and 3 kids ages 9, 6, 5) had an amazing time. It was beautiful and Scott was so knowledgeable about the area, the animals and the nature surrounding us. My kids were hanging on his every word. I would 100% recommend...read moreWhat wonderful adventure! My family and I (2 adults and 3 kids ages 9, 6, 5) had an amazing time. It was beautiful and Scott was so knowledgeable about the area, the animals and the nature surrounding us. My kids were hanging on his every word. I would 100% recommend and hope to come again! Thanks for a great day.read less
Jordan Black
6/28/2022
My husband and I and 4 teens spent the morning with Scott and Karissa last week and had the BEST time!! They were both so knowledgeable and patient and everyone in the family loved this tour. Highly recommend!!
Julie Baron
6/28/2022
Fabulous tour with Scott. He is extremely knowledgeable about the area and makes the Trip both fun and educational. I highly recommend this trip😎
Julie-Anne Ryan
6/22/2022
Scott is knowledgeable, fun, and creates an incredible experience that’s the perfect balance of a tour with the freedom to explore at your leisure! I would give 6 out of 5 stars if I could!
Kimberley Jackan Slinde
6/21/2022
Great tour on beautiful waters with lots of input on history of the area.
Shelley Atas Chinskey
6/16/2022
We had a great trip today with Scott and Carissa. They were wonderful guides - we did the mangroves and shell island and saw cormorants and dolphin and learned SO much! Loved the tra s would HIGHLY recommend this company - very knowledgeable and kind to All sorts of people!
Lisa Borges
6/14/2022
Book it NOW!!! The price is very reasonable. The guides are great! Very knowledgeable and patient. I had never kayaked before and Scott gave us a quick lesson that got me going with no problems. The water was beautiful at Shell Key Preserve. You will not be disappointed. Just book it!!
Sarah Harris
6/04/2022
Scott and Karissa were amazing tour guides. They were so informative about the wildlife, the preserve, and the area in general! My family and I were all beginners with the kayaks but they helped us with the basics at the beginning and provided tips during the tour that made it...read moreScott and Karissa were amazing tour guides. They were so informative about the wildlife, the preserve, and the area in general! My family and I were all beginners with the kayaks but they helped us with the basics at the beginning and provided tips during the tour that made it very easy and enjoyable! This experience was a highlight of this years summer vacation. We will definitely be back to tour with Scott and Karissa!read less
Meagan Whatley
6/03/2022
We had an amazing time on Monday 5/9/22. Scott and Karissa were knowledgeable and funny, the tour was amazing. Thank you for making my birthday vacation awesome. ❤️
Melissa Troupe
5/10/2022
Our family had an awesome time. Scott was a Great tour guide and was very professional and knowledgeable of the whole area. I can easily see why Island Kayak Tours are rated 5 stars !
Steve Plata
4/27/2022
Scott and his wife were absolutely amazing tour guides on the kayak tour that I took with my daughter this week. My daughter and I are proficient paddlers and we appreciated that fact that Scott was able to make the tour enjoyable for people of any ability level. He did...read moreScott and his wife were absolutely amazing tour guides on the kayak tour that I took with my daughter this week. My daughter and I are proficient paddlers and we appreciated that fact that Scott was able to make the tour enjoyable for people of any ability level. He did a very quick and efficient introduction to paddling and we were off right away on our about 4-mile round trip paddle to Shell Key. Both of them did a great job of striking up conversation with us and giving us all kinds of tidbits about the wildlife and history of the area. Scott grew up there and has a wealth of knowledge that I can't think that others doing similar kayak tours would have. I would highly recommend the tour and it simply can't be beat for the price ($39 per person plus tax).read less
David Blankinship
1/06/2023
As a resident, I decided to take advantage of some of our local attractions. I scheduled a Friday morning Kayak adventure and had an amazing time! Scott and Karissa did all of the work, their instructions were great (I was a first timer!), and they lead us on...read moreAs a resident, I decided to take advantage of some of our local attractions. I scheduled a Friday morning Kayak adventure and had an amazing time! Scott and Karissa did all of the work, their instructions were great (I was a first timer!), and they lead us on a fantastic tour. I really cannot recommend this enough and I will definitely do it again!read less
Sandra Anderson
8/23/2022
Support small local family businesses! Island Kayak Adventures is a great tour experience. No need to have any kayaking experience they make it so easy for you to learn. You'll learn some fun facts about the area and mangroves. Plus a great cool down swim on a beautiful beach. When...read moreSupport small local family businesses! Island Kayak Adventures is a great tour experience. No need to have any kayaking experience they make it so easy for you to learn. You'll learn some fun facts about the area and mangroves. Plus a great cool down swim on a beautiful beach. When we go back this will always be on our list to do.read less
mea danderand
6/22/2022
My hubby and I had our first ever kayaking trip!! (Something I’d been wanting to try for a while) We went down to Tierra Verde and met Scott and Karissa!
They were excellent guides! We had a BLAST! They took us around the preserve and showed us all...read moreMy hubby and I had our first ever kayaking trip!! (Something I’d been wanting to try for a while) We went down to Tierra Verde and met Scott and Karissa!
They were excellent guides! We had a BLAST! They took us around the preserve and showed us all kinds of native wildlife!
When we got to shell key island… it was amazing! People were camping out there!
My hubby found an AMAZING conch shell…. It’s huge and uninhabited!! He went wading way out in the water searching for shells instead of along the island like everyone else 😂 While on the island, we saw hermit crabs 🐚 , starfish, sand dollars, sea urchin, blue crabs 🦀 and many other creatures!
We also saw DOLPHINS 🐬 !!! At one point they were right in front of our kayak!!
Thanks again Scott and Karissa you both were excellent and we can’t wait to come back!!read less
Jennifer Oldaker
4/15/2022
Went on an awesome tour with Scott and Carissa!
Scott had a wealth of knowledge of the area and it's history. He had a lot to share about the area and the wildlife.
We got to see beautiful views, many different types of birds, different land features, various plants, and dolphins! The...read moreWent on an awesome tour with Scott and Carissa!
Scott had a wealth of knowledge of the area and it's history. He had a lot to share about the area and the wildlife.
We got to see beautiful views, many different types of birds, different land features, various plants, and dolphins! The dolphins swam around our kayaks for a good 10+ minutes.
Overall the trip was a blast and I would definitely go again.
Sunglasses and sunscreen were an absolute must! Bringing snacks along was helpful too!read less
Andrew H.
2/16/2022
Scott and Carissa were fabulous. I’ve taken a few different tours over the years, and this was by far the best! Scott was so informative and kind. My friends and I received a history lesson, environmental lesson, besides being in the best waters and location ever. The whole experience from...read moreScott and Carissa were fabulous. I’ve taken a few different tours over the years, and this was by far the best! Scott was so informative and kind. My friends and I received a history lesson, environmental lesson, besides being in the best waters and location ever. The whole experience from booking to final docking, was smooth and easy. You can tell this is their passion, and not just for business! They are community minded and involved with the environmental protection of the area, so we all get to continually enjoy this beautiful setting. I highly recommend them for all ages and all events! Beyond accommodating and knowledgeable!read less
Gina Battle
11/02/2021
This was easily the best $28 a piece we spent on our trip to Treasure Island. We love kayaking and meandering through the mangrove tunnels was awesome. We saw dolphins less than 5 minutes into the trip so close I could have touched it with my paddle. ...read moreThis was easily the best $28 a piece we spent on our trip to Treasure Island. We love kayaking and meandering through the mangrove tunnels was awesome. We saw dolphins less than 5 minutes into the trip so close I could have touched it with my paddle. Scott was great and very knowledgeable. We had some beginners in our group tour so it was nice that they use 2 guides so it allowed us more experienced kayakers to move along a little faster.read less
Paul Rice
6/12/2021
We completed the 50/50 Shell Key tour today with Steve and it was incredible!! We saw a pod of dolphins within the first few minutes of leaving the shore, marveled at the mangrove tunnels and enjoyed a refreshing dip in the ocean at the Shell key beach while hunting for...read moreWe completed the 50/50 Shell Key tour today with Steve and it was incredible!! We saw a pod of dolphins within the first few minutes of leaving the shore, marveled at the mangrove tunnels and enjoyed a refreshing dip in the ocean at the Shell key beach while hunting for shells. Steve is so professional and knowledgeable on the area. He was awesome with my two sons and my husband as I as it was our first time kayaking. We absolutely love this tour and would Highly recommend it! If considering, make sure you book Steve and Island Kayaks. He’s been kayaking this area for 30+ years and provides the best tours by offering small groups, 2 guides and tons of information as you cruise alongread less
Natalia Kreinbring
6/11/2021
This is a MUST DO! If you are considering a kayak experience - this is the one! I am a Floridian and appreciate the local knowledge and history that Scott brings to the experience. He knows the area, its history and even the water birds (he’s named them) that...read moreThis is a MUST DO! If you are considering a kayak experience - this is the one! I am a Floridian and appreciate the local knowledge and history that Scott brings to the experience. He knows the area, its history and even the water birds (he’s named them) that swam around our kayaks and oars and caught little fish that they (birds) showed off to us (funny and amazing!). It was great fun and suitable for all ages and experiences levels. The canopied mangroves were incredible – my first experience and of course everyone loved the shelling and swimming where you get to play for about an hour! The whole trip was like Disney entertainment – but real and we were in the show!!! Karissa was an important part of the whole experience as well – because as Scott would lead for the faster paddlers, she followed at the back to stay with the slower paddlers to ensure the safety from the rear. I will be back and will recommend to all my friends!!!read less
Terrie P
6/01/2021
Scott and his wife are the best! My wife Diana and I have been several times and will continue to go back to them. Great personalities and very knowledgeable. Beautiful scenery is hard to match anywhere! We are so thankful that we have met this wonderful...read moreScott and his wife are the best! My wife Diana and I have been several times and will continue to go back to them. Great personalities and very knowledgeable. Beautiful scenery is hard to match anywhere! We are so thankful that we have met this wonderful couple! We encourage you to check them out! You will not regret it!read less
Brian Culver
5/24/2021
I can’t articulate enough how much I recommend this experience!! Scott and Karissa were phenomenal and made the experience that much more meaningful. Only my second time kayaking and nervous of the water but they made me feel secure. The mangroves were adventurous!!! We even saw dolphins on the beach....read moreI can’t articulate enough how much I recommend this experience!! Scott and Karissa were phenomenal and made the experience that much more meaningful. Only my second time kayaking and nervous of the water but they made me feel secure. The mangroves were adventurous!!! We even saw dolphins on the beach. The stop off at the beach was a nice unexpected surprise. I feel I found a gem locally and wait to go back!!!read less
Linsy Thomas
5/17/2021
Great time! The sea shell preserve was great! Would recommend.
Brad Miller
12/31/2020
Wow..what a day we had today with Islandkayaktours.com it was amazing. I planned this trip as a surprise to my sister who is getting married soon, us 3 sisters and my daughter headed out on the three hour tour..lol so much fun, it was a tough start for me...read moreWow..what a day we had today with Islandkayaktours.com it was amazing. I planned this trip as a surprise to my sister who is getting married soon, us 3 sisters and my daughter headed out on the three hour tour..lol so much fun, it was a tough start for me and a really tougher ending due to some strong paddling into the wind, but we had so much help from the crew Scott and Thia. Scott is full of information about the mangroves, the birds and the surroundings. Thai stuck by us in the beginning when we had a rough time getting in a grove, then at the end, he offered to tow us with a rope, but we didn't want the sham, we might have been last but we did it on our own. Please check this adventure out you wont be sorry. I only wish I could give 10 stars.👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍read less
Micki Schilling
10/10/2020
We had such an wonderful time kayaking with Scott, Karissa and Thai. They were informative and knew an impressive amount of knowledge on the surrounding area and wild life. They were friendly, personable, and everything you look for in a guide. Our highlight was definitely how thoughtful...read moreWe had such an wonderful time kayaking with Scott, Karissa and Thai. They were informative and knew an impressive amount of knowledge on the surrounding area and wild life. They were friendly, personable, and everything you look for in a guide. Our highlight was definitely how thoughtful they were. We went with my 7 year old who was only interested in swimming when we got to Shell Key. When we came back from swimming, our wonderful guides had left multiple sand dollars for my daughter. That totally made her day! I’d absolutely recommend island Kayak Adventures! 👍🏼read less
Nancy Thao
10/09/2020
i have done kayaking in the past, but my first time with a tour guide, Scott his wife and son where excellent, my girlfriend loved it, they make the trip fun and engaging, it is a must to go recommended. For first timers i think is great.
David Ramos
9/28/2020
An AMAZING experience! From the first call with Karissa to the actual tour with Scott and Karissa, this team was fantastic. My trip was changed as they are very weather and safety conscious. They put the safety and experience over going out in questionable conditions. From the minute I arrived to...read moreAn AMAZING experience! From the first call with Karissa to the actual tour with Scott and Karissa, this team was fantastic. My trip was changed as they are very weather and safety conscious. They put the safety and experience over going out in questionable conditions. From the minute I arrived to the minute I left, everything was wonderful. I arrived to the kayaks ready to go and a warm welcome, then onto a helpful presentation of how to kayak ( a refresher to some but helpful to others). Next a brief outline of our adventure and an idea of what to expect. We were assisted getting in our boats and once everyone was ready, we left as a group with Scott doing a narration of the area all the way out to Shell Island while Karissa brought up the rear making sure everyone was with us. Then through the mangroves tunnels we went before reaching Shell Island. We were assisted again getting out of our boats and told where to go. A fun time on the island...either in the water or on the beach...then a surprise of a couple of manatees decided to visit. On the return, again Scott assisted everyone back in the kayaks both on the island and when we arrived back at our cars. I was amazed what a great job they did, always keeping us posted on what to expect and what to look at as we paddle. And I was always treated so nice entering and exiting the kayak. Whether you are a new kayaker or an experienced one, this tour is the way to safely see the mangroves and enjoy the knowledge of the area that was provided.read less
Maureen K.
9/19/2022
The best company to book a kayaking tour with! I have been vacationing to St. Pete Beach a few times a year for the last 10 years. I found Island Kayak in 2018 and have booked with them at least once a year since. Scott and Karissa are great and...read moreThe best company to book a kayaking tour with! I have been vacationing to St. Pete Beach a few times a year for the last 10 years. I found Island Kayak in 2018 and have booked with them at least once a year since. Scott and Karissa are great and no matter how many times I do the tour, it never gets old.
There is so much wildlife to see, whether it is birds, fish, crabs, manatees, or dolphins. Each tour is a little something different, and they handle all the loading/unloading of kayaks so all you have to do is show up. Paddling is also super easy as the water stays pretty calm.
They do such a great job leading the tour that I've been able to kayak the area myself and locate mangrove tunnels to go through based on Scott's prior instruction. Definitely worth the trip if you find yourself in St. Pete.read less
Ashlee B.
6/24/2022
Do not miss the Shell Key tour led by Scott and Karissa - It.Is.Incredible. Having grown up in the area, Scott, a very engaging and expert guide, knows every inch of the waterways and island along with all flora and fauna in the area. The wildlife we saw was...read moreDo not miss the Shell Key tour led by Scott and Karissa - It.Is.Incredible. Having grown up in the area, Scott, a very engaging and expert guide, knows every inch of the waterways and island along with all flora and fauna in the area. The wildlife we saw was so thrilling - a dolphin, manatees, cormorants fishing under the kayaks, fish and the crazy looking upside down jellyfish. On Shell Key Island we found sand dollars and a wide variety of intact, beautiful shells. Floating through the mangroves made me feel like we were entering a secret childhood hideout - we absolutely loved it!!! This was our first time kayaking and there was no judgment for our slower pace and crazy steering. Take this tour - you'll be glad you did!read less
Deb N.
5/10/2022
The 50/50 tour was great. It had a good mix of kayaking in the bay, hiking/shell-finding on the island, and kayaking through the mangroves. We spent about an hour on each. There is a tour guide who is knowledgeable, and there is also room for you to...read moreThe 50/50 tour was great. It had a good mix of kayaking in the bay, hiking/shell-finding on the island, and kayaking through the mangroves. We spent about an hour on each. There is a tour guide who is knowledgeable, and there is also room for you to take your time and explore a bit on your own. It was no effort to set up -- you just arrive at the boat launch and they have everything ready for you.read less
J F.
3/10/2022
First time Kayaker here...was a tad nervous, but from the second we arrived our guides (Scott/Karissa sp?) made us feel very comfortable and reassured! They both are so knowledgeable about the area, sea life, waterways, kayaking and so much more- I learned so much! The scenery was breathtaking! I would...read moreFirst time Kayaker here...was a tad nervous, but from the second we arrived our guides (Scott/Karissa sp?) made us feel very comfortable and reassured! They both are so knowledgeable about the area, sea life, waterways, kayaking and so much more- I learned so much! The scenery was breathtaking! I would definitely recommend this tour and I will definitely be doing this again soon!!!read less
Kim D.
1/17/2022
We took the 1 PM tour to shell key preserve. It was super fun and upbeat. The tour guide was great and made sure we knew how to kayak so it is good for beginners. Would definitely recommend for locals and visitors. We got to see dolphins and other aquatic...read moreWe took the 1 PM tour to shell key preserve. It was super fun and upbeat. The tour guide was great and made sure we knew how to kayak so it is good for beginners. Would definitely recommend for locals and visitors. We got to see dolphins and other aquatic life which made the day great! Loved going through the mangrove tunnels too!read less
Janae N.
1/06/2022
Wonderful 3 hour tour out to Shell Island with our knowledgeable guide, Scott. He was entertaining as well as informative about the local area where he grew up. Spend time walking on Shell Island and about 3 miles of kayaking including the fun mangrove tunnels. Great time...read moreWonderful 3 hour tour out to Shell Island with our knowledgeable guide, Scott. He was entertaining as well as informative about the local area where he grew up. Spend time walking on Shell Island and about 3 miles of kayaking including the fun mangrove tunnels. Great time and a great value!read less
Susan H.
12/28/2021
Absolutely amazing experience! We saw the mangrove tunnels and a dolphin playing in the shallow water. Would recommend to everyone! The guides, Scott and Carissa were amazing and super helpful along the way.
Maddy B.
12/15/2021
The couple that run this excursion are so nice and informative. It is the best excursion I have done since living here. My son has gone twice now and both times he was really happy he went. I am a beginner and had no trouble with going my own...read moreThe couple that run this excursion are so nice and informative. It is the best excursion I have done since living here. My son has gone twice now and both times he was really happy he went. I am a beginner and had no trouble with going my own pace. Highly recommend!read less
Tammy B.
11/01/2021
Had an amazing time kayaking out to Shell Island. Scott is very knowledgeable and made it fun for everyone. He took us into the mangrove tunnels which were very cool. Would highly recommend!!
Deb L.
10/14/2021
Our guides were incredibly knowledgeable and personable. It was such a fun day. We kayaked through mangroves and out to shell island and got so many shells and sand dollars. The scenery was so beautiful. We learned about cormorants and the habitats for dolphins and manatees, although we didn't see...read moreOur guides were incredibly knowledgeable and personable. It was such a fun day. We kayaked through mangroves and out to shell island and got so many shells and sand dollars. The scenery was so beautiful. We learned about cormorants and the habitats for dolphins and manatees, although we didn't see any. What a workout! It was worth it. I would do this again! Thanks for the fun day and great convo.read less
Billi I.
9/20/2021
Scott was extremely knowledgeable of the path, scenic views, wildlife, and island. He was easy to chat with and engaged with all the guests on the tour. Our tour ran a little longer, not a compliant!!! It shows that they take time with their guests to ensure knowledge,...read moreScott was extremely knowledgeable of the path, scenic views, wildlife, and island. He was easy to chat with and engaged with all the guests on the tour. Our tour ran a little longer, not a compliant!!! It shows that they take time with their guests to ensure knowledge, safety, and a great experience. Thank you!!!! -Melinda & Ben Youngstown Ohioread less
Melinda M.
8/26/2021
This is a MUST DO! If you are considering a kayak experience - this is the one! I am a Floridian and appreciate the local knowledge and history that Scott brings to the experience. He knows the area, its history and even the water birds (he's named them) that...read moreThis is a MUST DO! If you are considering a kayak experience - this is the one! I am a Floridian and appreciate the local knowledge and history that Scott brings to the experience. He knows the area, its history and even the water birds (he's named them) that swam around our kayaks and oars and caught little fish that they (birds) showed off to us (funny and amazing!). It was great fun and suitable for all ages and experiences levels. The canopied mangroves were incredible - my first experience and of course everyone loved the shelling and swimming where you get to play for about an hour! The whole trip was like Disney entertainment - but real and we were in the show!!! Karissa was an important part of the whole experience as well - because as Scott would lead for the faster paddlers, she followed at the back to stay with the slower paddlers to ensure the safety from the rear. I will be back and will recommend to all my friends!!!read less
Terrie M.
6/01/2021
Scott gives a great kayak tour at great price. He provides a lot of information and history while paddling through some gorgeous waters. Local family run business. He is very personable and friendly.. We have been twice over the past year and will go again in the future. Highly recommend.
Ryan G.
5/31/2021
Scott did an amazing job explaining everything to us, giving us plenty of time to explore, and spending time at a secluded beach! It was a PERFECT experience! Thank you for a beautiful day! Will definitely go back. We were visiting from Maine. Got to see...read moreScott did an amazing job explaining everything to us, giving us plenty of time to explore, and spending time at a secluded beach! It was a PERFECT experience! Thank you for a beautiful day! Will definitely go back. We were visiting from Maine. Got to see 2 Manatees, dolphins, lots of birds. Worth every penny!read less