New Smyrna Beach offers more than just beautiful sands and surf—it’s a perfect spot for outdoor tours that bring you up close and personal with Florida’s natural beauty. Whether you’re paddling through calm waterways, spotting wildlife in the Indian River Lagoon, or relaxing on a lively island cruise, these experiences give you a fresh perspective on this charming coastal town. We especially like the Half-Day Guided SUP or Kayak Waterways Tour for its blend of adventure and wildlife viewing, and the Sip N’ Dip Island Sandbar Cruise for a fun, family-friendly party on the water. Each offers a different way to enjoy the area’s unique coastal environment.
If you’re after a relaxing, nature-focused outing, the kayak tours stand out. But if you’re looking for something lively, the sandbar cruise offers a perfect day of sun, swimming, and socializing. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at three of the best tours, helping you decide which is best suited to your style and interests.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three top-rated tours in New Smyrna Beach, each with its own appeal and target audience:
– The New Smyrna: Half-Day Guided SUP or Kayak Waterways Tour offers a two-hour paddle through mangroves, with chances to see manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles.
– The Daytona/New Smyrna Beach: Unforgettable Kayak Wildlife tours focuses on exploring the Indian River Lagoon, ideal for wildlife lovers wanting a peaceful paddle.
– The Sip N’ Dip Island Sandbar Cruise is a three-hour, family-friendly tiki boat trip to a lively sandbar with swimming, music, and drinks.
Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you pick the right adventure.
1. New Smyrna: Half-Day Guided SUP or Kayak Waterways Tour
At number one, this Half-Day Guided SUP or Kayak Waterways Tour stands out for its balance of activity and scenery. For $65 per person, you get two hours of paddling through New Smyrna’s lush mangrove-lined waterways. The tour includes instruction if you’re new to paddleboarding or kayaking, making it accessible even for beginners.
What makes this tour unique is the chance to stop at several pristine islands just off the coast—perfect for a quick break or a relaxing picnic. Your guide, with their knowledge of the local ecosystem, points out sea turtles, pelicans, crabs, and, if lucky, dolphins and manatees. The experience combines physical activity with wildlife observation, making it ideal for nature lovers and active travelers alike. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the guides are, with one noting, “We saw dolphins right next to us, and the guide shared fascinating facts about the mangroves.”
This tour is best suited for those wanting a shorter, intimate outdoor experience that’s both fun and educational. The value is high for the price considering the wildlife sightings and small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners and nature enthusiasts who want a quick, engaging paddle and a chance to see local wildlife up close.
2. Daytona/New Smyrna Beach: Unforgettable Kayak Wildlife Tours
Coming in second is the Unforgettable Kayak Wildlife Tours, a two-hour paddle through the Indian River Lagoon and Intracoastal Waterway. For $65 per person, this tour emphasizes wildlife viewing—dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species are frequent sightings. It’s available in the morning or afternoon, offering flexibility depending on your schedule.
During the trip, your knowledgeable guide shares insights into the local ecosystem, making it both an educational and relaxing experience. Many reviewers praise the tour’s peaceful atmosphere and the guide’s expertise, with one saying, “Seeing dolphins jump beside the kayak was unforgettable, and the guide’s stories made it even better.” Because of the focus on wildlife, this trip is especially suited for nature lovers who enjoy a quiet, contemplative paddle without strenuous effort.
Compared to the first tour, this one tends to have a more relaxed pace and a greater focus on learning about the environment. The intimate size and natural setting make it a favorite for families and couples wanting a calm, wildlife-rich experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in wildlife and ecology, seeking a peaceful paddle with expert guidance.
3. New Smyrna Beach/Daytona: Sip N’ Dip Island Sandbar Cruise
Third on our list is the Sip N’ Dip Island Sandbar Cruise, a lively three-hour trip on a tiki boat, priced at $70 per person. It isn’t a quiet paddle but a party-style cruise perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting a fun day on the water. The cruise takes you out to a sandy island where you can swim, float, or just lounge on beach mats.
This tour’s highlight is the relaxed, festive atmosphere—bring your favorite beverages and snacks (it’s BYOB) and enjoy music and sunshine. The sandbar itself is ideal for swimming, playing with beach toys, or simply soaking up the sun. Many reviewers mention how much their kids or groups enjoyed the lively vibe, with comments like “The perfect mix of fun, sun, and socializing.” Because it’s longer and more social than the paddling tours, it offers a different type of experience.
This cruise is best suited for families, groups, or travelers wanting a no-fuss, enjoyable day out with drinks, swimming, and good company. It’s less about wildlife and more about relaxation and fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a casual, family-friendly outing with plenty of opportunities to swim and socialize.
$70 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. If you love active outdoor adventures and wildlife sightings, the paddling tours (waterways, wildlife) are excellent choices. For a more relaxed, social experience, the Sandbar Cruise offers a lively day on the water with swimming and music.
Budget is also a consideration—most tours hover around $65-$70 for a few hours of fun, making them accessible. Booking early is advisable during peak seasons (spring and summer), especially for popular tours.
Final Thoughts
New Smyrna Beach offers a variety of memorable water-based tours that suit different interests and activity levels. If you’re after a short, wildlife-focused paddle, the guided paddleboard or kayak tour provides a wonderful mix of nature and gentle exercise. For those who prefer a calm, educational paddle, the Indian River Lagoon tour is ideal. And if your idea of a perfect day involves beach, swimming, and a lively atmosphere, the Sip N’ Dip Island Sandbar Cruise will deliver.
Each tour offers a different slice of what makes New Smyrna Beach special. To ensure you don’t miss out, consider booking your preferred experience early—these popular options tend to fill up fast, especially in peak season. Whichever you choose, these adventures promise to add a memorable touch to your Florida getaway.