Naples isn’t just about its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts; it’s a hub for outdoor experiences and nature tours that showcase Florida’s wild side. Whether you’re spotting dolphins on a boat, paddling through mangrove tunnels, or enjoying a sunset sail, Naples offers a wide range of activities for all interests. We particularly love the Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling Tour for its combination of wildlife viewing and shell collecting, and the Dolphin and Shelling Cruise, which offers a more intimate small-group experience—you might even swim with marine life. These tours give you a genuine taste of Florida’s Gulf Coast ecology, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
For those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation, the Sightseeing and Sunset Catamaran Sailing Excursion delivers a memorable evening, while the Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour of the Everglades takes you deep into one of America’s most unique ecosystems. Whatever your style or budget, Naples’s variety of tours makes it easy to find a memorable excursion. Let’s explore the top options available.
1. Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling Tour
At number 1, this 2-hour boat tour from Marco Island offers a fantastic introduction to the Ten Thousand Islands. With a guide, you’ll cruise through Florida’s gulf waters, learning about the mangrove ecosystems and marine life. This tour is especially good for those who want a relaxed, informative experience with plenty of wildlife sightings—dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles are common. The highlight for many is the shelling, where you can pick shells from the shoreline, adding a fun and tangible memory to the trip.
The boat departs from Goodland Boating Park, which has restrooms and concessions, making boarding smooth. Reviewers praise Captain Colleen’s knowledge and friendliness, with comments like: “Thanks Captain Colleen for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.” The price point ($99) is reasonable considering the two hours of wildlife watching, shelling, and ecosystems education, making it a good choice for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: A value-packed, family-friendly tour offering wildlife, shelling, and scenic Gulf views.
2. Dolphin and Shelling Cruise for up to 12 people
Number 2 on our list is a more personalized experience: a small-group 2-hour 30-minute cruise departing from Marco Island. For just $109 per person, you’ll explore the Ten Thousand Islands, with plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, and seabirds. The small size (up to 12 guests) means more space and better wildlife viewing chances, plus the guides share insightful commentary.
Guests rave about the friendly hosts and the dolphins’ antics, with reviews noting, “Dolphins playing in our wake was a highlight.” The tour is flexible, with morning and afternoon options to fit your schedule. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends who want a relaxed outing with a personal touch and plenty of wildlife opportunities. The focus on wildlife observation and shelling makes this a well-rounded trip.
Bottom Line: An intimate, eco-focused tour with excellent reviews and flexible scheduling, perfect for wildlife lovers.
3. Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour
Number 3 features a 3-hour kayak tour exploring Florida’s Everglades in the Ten Thousand Islands. Led by a guide with 25 years of experience, this tour offers close-up encounters with manatees, especially in winter, plus opportunities to see otters, alligators, and various bird species. The small group size ensures plenty of attention and personalized insight.
Guests love the chance to learn about the ecosystem firsthand, with reviews mentioning “Kyle was wonderful, and we saw manatees and dolphins.” The tour is suitable for all skill levels, with all equipment provided. It’s a good fit for active travelers who want to paddle through mangroves and experience the wild Florida landscape from the water.
Bottom Line: An immersive, wildlife-rich kayak adventure perfect for nature fans and those wanting a hands-on experience.
4. Backwater Adventure’s CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands
Number 4 is a unique way to explore the Ten Thousand Islands—aboard a two-person CraigCat. This guided 1.5 to 2.5-hour tour offers a fun, easy ride through winding waterways and mangroves. The small group (or couples) will enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, with occasional sightings of dolphins and fish—though not guaranteed.
The tour is praised for its hands-on approach and the chance to get close to the wildlife, with reviews highlighting how wet you’ll get, so bringing towels and dry clothes is advised. The guides are knowledgeable, and the coolers with water keep you refreshed. It’s perfect for couples or those who want a quick, lively adventure without the physical effort of paddling.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating, family-friendly watercraft experience that’s perfect for a quick yet memorable wildlife tour.
5. Mangrove Tunnels & Mudflats Kayak Tour – Local Biologist Guides
Number 5 offers a half-day kayak tour led by local biologists through the Rookery Bay Reserve. Paddling into mangrove tunnels, you’ll learn about the habitat that supports birdlife, dolphins, and other wildlife. The tour is family-friendly, with options for single or tandem kayaks, and includes HD photos of your trip.
Guests appreciate the educational component, with guides sharing in-depth knowledge about the ecosystem. The experience is gentle enough for beginners, but still packed with sightings of sea stars, large snails, and possibly manatees. For nature lovers wanting a more educational experience, this tour offers excellent value at $69.99.
Bottom Line: An informative, wildlife-focused kayak adventure perfect for eco-conscious travelers and families.
6. Guided Island EcoTour: CLEAR/Standard Kayak, SUP – Bonita Springs
Number 6 features a 2.5-hour eco-tour in Naples that includes CLEAR kayaks—a favorite for their visibility and fun. Paddling through Estero Bay allows you to spot dolphins, manatees, and sea birds, with the added bonus of exploring mangrove tunnels and secluded beaches.
Guides, like Elizabeth and Hannah, are praised for their expertise and kindness, making this a good choice for beginners or families. The tour’s highlight is the crystal-clear kayak, which ups the fun factor and provides a better view of underwater wildlife. The price ($55) makes it an accessible way to see Florida’s nature in comfort.
Bottom Line: An engaging eco-tour combining unique clear kayaks with wildlife viewing and beach exploration.
7. Sightseeing and Sunset Catamaran Sailing Excursion
Number 7 is a relaxing 2.5-hour sailing cruise on the vessel “Cool Beans”. You’ll enjoy dolphin sightings, birdwatching, and possibly manatees while cruising along Naples’ coast. The sunset cruise offers unforgettable views, often capped with a secluded beach stop for shelling or swimming.
Reviewers praise the friendly crew, beautiful sunset, and the chance to relax with drinks and snacks. It’s perfect for romantic evenings or families looking for a memorable, scenic outing. The price ($70) is reasonable considering the ambiance and experience, though it’s more about the atmosphere than high-adrenaline adventure.
Bottom Line: A scenic, laid-back sailing experience ideal for sunset lovers and anyone wanting a peaceful, stylish evening on the water.
8. Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
Number 8 offers a 2-hour dolphin-focused boat tour departing from Marco Island. The tour guarantees dolphin sightings, thanks to knowledgeable guides familiar with their behavior. Along with dolphins, you’ll explore the Ten Thousand Islands maze of mangroves while hearing fascinating facts about the ecosystem.
Guests love the informative guides and how much wildlife they observe, with comments like “Dolphins were jumping and active,” showing it’s a lively, engaging trip. The tour is good for families and anyone interested in marine life. At $99, it’s moderately priced considering the wildlife encounters and expert narration.
Bottom Line: A lively dolphin hunt with expert guides, suitable for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
9. Marco Island 2 hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling tour
Number 9 combines wildlife spotting and shelling in a 2-hour tour from Marco Island. Led by a naturalist, you’ll look for dolphins, pelicans, manatees, and other animals, then head to a remote island for shell collecting.
Reviewers note it’s ideal for families and those wanting a personalized, small-group experience. The tour’s focus on wildlife and shelling makes it engaging and educational, with many noting sightings of dolphins and various bird species. The $99.95 price is reasonable for a comprehensive wildlife outing.
Bottom Line: An all-around wildlife and shelling trip perfect for nature lovers and families wanting a personal experience.
10. Avi’s Premium Dolphin Tour by Jet Ski
Number 10 offers an adventurous jet ski tour for up to two people, lasting about 2 hours. Riding through the mangroves of Cape Romano and the 10,000 Islands, you’ll search for dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. The thrill of riding a jet ski adds an adrenaline shot to exploring marine habitats.
Reviewers mention the exhilarating ride and wildlife sightings, with some noting that you can even get close to dolphins. It’s ideal for travelers who want more action and are comfortable with watercraft. The tour, costing $295 per group, is more expensive but offers a unique perspective on Florida’s waters.
Bottom Line: An exciting, high-energy way to see marine wildlife for active travelers and thrill-seekers.
11. Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour of the Everglades
Number 11 takes you into Everglades National Park on a 3-hour eco-tour. This small-group trip is perfect for those who want to see fish, birds, turtles, manatees, and maybe even dolphins, all from a low-impact motorboat. You’ll disembark on an isolated island, adding to the sense of adventure.
Reviews highlight the informative narration and wildlife sightings, such as dolphins and birds, with commentary that’s ideal for families and eco-minded travelers. The $149 price includes all gear and an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, wildlife-rich eco-tour that emphasizes eco-awareness and is great for families.
12. 3 Hour Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour
Number 12 is a 3-hour guided kayak adventure through the mangrove tunnels of the Florida Everglades. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll paddle into one of the largest mangrove forests in North America, learning about the ecology along the way.
Reviewers love the serenity and wildlife sightings like dolphins and birds, with one saying, “The mangrove tunnels were beautiful and peaceful.” It’s suitable for all skill levels and perfect for travelers who want a calm yet immersive experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent, educational kayak trip into Florida’s iconic mangroves, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
13. Clear Kayak Guided Eco Tour in North Naples
Number 13 features a 2.5-hour clear kayak tour, giving you unobstructed views underwater. Exploring Wiggins Pass, you’ll see dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds while enjoying still waters and beautiful scenery.
Guests praise the guides’ attentiveness and the photos they take, making it a perfect way to capture memories. The tour is accessible for beginners and families, with a price of just $84 per person.
Bottom Line: A visually engaging eco-tour with the novelty of clear kayaks and great wildlife viewing.
14. Guided Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in Rookery Bay Reserve
Number 14 offers a 2-hour guided eco-kayak inside Rookery Bay, focusing on the mangrove habitat. Led by naturalists, you’ll paddle among birds, dolphins, and possibly manatees, exploring a water maze of lush mangroves.
Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see hidden creatures like starfish and snails. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, providing an enriching encounter with Florida’s coastal ecosystems.
Bottom Line: An informative, wildlife-packed kayak adventure into one of North America’s major mangrove forests.
15. Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion
Number 15 is a luxurious private tour for up to six people, lasting around 2.5 hours. It takes you to remote islands filled with shells and wildlife, with the chance to see dolphins swimming nearby. The private nature ensures a tailored experience, and the boat is equipped with coolers and buckets for shells.
Reviewers emphasize how personalized and relaxing this trip is, with “dolphins playing in waves and shells galore.” It’s perfect for families or couples seeking exclusivity and privacy. The price ($475 per group) reflects its private, custom experience.
Bottom Line: A personalized, high-end shelling and dolphin adventure for those seeking privacy and a leisurely pace.
16. Guided Hobie Kayak EcoTour: Premium Eco Experience Bonita Springs
Finally, number 16 is a pedal-assisted kayak tour through Bonita Springs. This group trip includes exploring mangrove tunnels, Big Hickory Island, and a private beach, with plenty of wildlife sightings—including dolphins and manatees. Your guide offers photography tips and local insights.
Guests mention how easy and fun the pedal kayaks are, making it accessible for all skill levels. The tour is a great choice for families and casual explorers who want a relaxed yet wildlife-rich experience.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly, easy-to-navigate eco-tour with excellent wildlife watching and photo opportunities.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Naples
Choosing between these fantastic options depends on your interests, budget, and fitness level. If wildlife and shelling are your priority, the Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling Tour offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price. For more personalized, intimate encounters, the Dolphin and Shelling Cruise is ideal.
Active travelers might prefer the Kayak Eco Tours, while those seeking a relaxing evening should consider the Sunset Catamaran. Budget-conscious visitors will find the Clear Kayak tour in North Naples to be an affordable but immersive option.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and tour. Think about what excites you most—wildlife, adventure, or tranquility—and pick the one that best fits your style.
Final Thoughts
Naples’s tours provide a variety of ways to enjoy Florida’s coastal beauty. From wildlife-focused boat trips that guarantee dolphin sightings to peaceful kayaking through mangroves, there’s a suitable experience for every traveler. For adventure seekers, the jet ski tour or eco boat trips offer a dose of adrenaline. For those who prefer peaceful sunsets, the sailing cruise delivers unforgettable views.
Consider your interests and fitness level as you choose, and don’t forget to book early—these experiences are popular and tend to fill quickly. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, these tours will leave you with stories worth sharing long after you’ve returned home.