St Pete Beach is famous for its white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters, but it also offers a surprising variety of tours that let you experience the area in unique ways. Whether you’re interested in exploring marine life at night, paddling through mangroves, or relaxing in a tropical cabana, this small slice of Florida has a lot to offer. We particularly love the St. Pete Beach: Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding Night Tour for its innovative LED-lit kayak, and the Private Boat tour for watersports and snorkeling for those who want personalized adventures on the water. These experiences put you close to nature while offering a fun and memorable outing.
If you’re considering which tour suits your style, read on. We’ve compiled a list of the top options ranging from eco-friendly wildlife excursions to cultural cooking classes, helping you find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. St. Pete Beach: Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding Night Tour
At number 1 on our list, this LED illuminated glass-bottom kayak tour stands out because it’s truly one-of-a-kind—the only one of its kind in the world. For just $67 per person, you get 1.5 hours of paddling through calm waters while watching marine life glow beneath your see-through kayak. Imagine feeding fish at night with the vibrant colors lighting up the water around you. This tour combines a relaxing kayak trip with a bit of spectacle, making it a hit for families, couples, or anyone curious about undersea life.
What makes this experience special is the LED-lit kayak that creates a surreal, almost sci-fi scene in the water. Many reviews highlight how mesmerizing the glowing fish and corals are, especially under the night sky. The guide provides insights into the local marine ecosystem, making it both fun and educational.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an unforgettable mix of technology and nature, perfect for those looking for a unique way to explore marine life after dark without leaving the water.
2. Tierra Verde FL: Coastal Kayaking Tour in Shell Key
Second on our list, the Coastal Kayaking Tour in Shell Key for $65 per person offers a deeper dive into Florida’s natural beauty. Lasting 3 hours, this tour takes you through mangrove tunnels in the Shell Key preserve, where you can paddle through quiet channels that hide a wealth of wildlife. During the right seasons, you might spot dolphins and manatees, adding a real thrill to your paddle.
The highlight here is the 100-year-old mangrove tunnels, which are both scenic and an important habitat for many species. The tour is ideal for those who want a more active experience, with ample opportunities to see rays, crabs, fish, and shorebirds along the way. The guide’s commentary is informative, making this a great choice for nature lovers and paddlers of all skill levels.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine physical activity with wildlife viewing and enjoy the tranquility of Florida’s coastal ecosystems, this tour is well worth considering.
3. Clearwater: Daydreamer’s Luxury Bamboo Cabana Rental
At number 3, this luxury bamboo cabana experience offers a slice of paradise for up to 8 people for $450. Over 6 hours, you can relax in a cabana that makes you feel like you’re in the Caribbean, surrounded by tropical decor and lush greenery. This is a perfect way to unwind, connect to nature, and enjoy a private retreat on the beach.
The cabana provides a tranquil space to read, nap, or just soak in the views. It’s designed for comfort and ambiance, giving you a luxurious sense of escape. This experience is especially popular among groups or couples seeking a no-fuss, high-end relaxation spot. It’s not a guided tour but a private experience that can be tailored to your needs.
Bottom Line: If your priority is relaxation and a touch of exotic luxury, this bamboo cabana rental offers a memorable, immersive beach day in a lush setting.
$450 per group up to 8
4. Tampa: Sushi Making Class With Local Chef
Moving inland, the Sushi Making Class in Tampa offers a fun, hands-on culinary experience. For $75 per person over 2 hours, you learn how to craft sushi with a professional chef, including spicy tuna rolls and vegetable options like cucumber and shiitake mushroom hand rolls. It’s an engaging activity that’s perfect for foodies or couples wanting to try something different.
The class covers how to make perfect sushi rice and roll techniques, making it easy to replicate at home later. Many participants appreciate the chance to learn from a local chef and leave with new skills and a delicious meal. While the review score isn’t listed, the value lies in the interactive, experiential nature of the class.
Bottom Line: This is ideal for those who want to combine cultural learning with a delicious, hands-on activity—perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening.
$75 per person
5. St Pete Beach: Private Boat Tour for Watersports and Snorkeling
Finally, for pure water fun, the Private Boat Tour offers a customizable adventure for up to 6 people at $365. You can choose your favorite activities like waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, or snorkeling at Egmont Key. The boat allows for flexibility—spend your time shelling at Shell Island or enjoy a peaceful sunset cruise.
This experience is perfect for groups who want control over their itinerary and a personalized day on the Gulf of Mexico. The boat can be used for a variety of watersports, making it suitable for active travelers, families, or friends who want to share a private day on the water. Reviews note the flexibility and the chance to see dolphins during the cruise.
Bottom Line: If you want a tailored water adventure and enjoy trying multiple activities in one outing, this private boat tour is hard to beat.
$365 per group up to 6
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how active you want to be. If you’re fascinated by marine life and want a visually stunning experience, the LED kayak fish-feeding tour offers an unforgettable night adventure. For wildlife lovers, the Shell Key kayaking provides a peaceful, nature-focused outing. Looking to relax? The luxury bamboo cabana gives you a tropical retreat without leaving the beach. Food enthusiasts will enjoy the sushi-making class for a cultural culinary experience, while those who want a flexible, private day on the water should consider the watersports and snorkeling tour.
Book early, especially in peak season, to ensure availability. Think about your priorities—active exploration or serene relaxation—and choose accordingly. All these tours offer something different, making St Pete Beach your perfect base for adventure and leisure.
In summary, St Pete Beach offers a wide range of tour experiences that cater to every travel style. For a truly unique experience, the LED glass bottom kayak tops our list for its innovative approach to marine life viewing. If wildlife and nature are your priorities, the Shell Key kayaking is a must. Those seeking a luxury escape should check out the bamboo cabana, while food lovers can indulge in sushi with a local chef. And for active water sports, the private boat tour truly delivers.
No matter what suits your style, these tours are worth considering—and booking early can ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable adventures.
Happy travels, and enjoy your time in beautiful St Pete Beach.