Destin is famous for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal place for canoe and kayak experiences. Whether you’re after a peaceful paddle through calm springs, a wildlife-rich ecotour, or a glowing night adventure, Destin has something to offer. One of our favorites is the Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna, which ranks high with its immersive wildlife viewing and underwater cave exploration. If you prefer something more unique, the Glow Kayak Tour offers a magical nighttime experience shining with bioluminescent creatures. With options tailored to different interests and fitness levels, it’s easy to find a perfect match.
Quick Overview
The list below covers a variety of kayak and canoe tours including ecotours in tranquil springs, rentals exploring private islands, and glow-in-the-dark night paddles. Some tours, like the Cypress Springs Eco Adventure, focus on natural springs and wildlife, while others like the Destin Harbor Kayak Rental highlight urban waterway exploration. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the options cater to various budgets and durations, from quick hour-long trips to multi-hour adventures.
1. Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna
At number 1, the Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna is a standout for its tranquil waters, underwater caves, and wildlife sightings. The tour takes you near limestone bluffs and lush cypress trees, paddling over springs teeming with fish, turtles, and even fossilized shark teeth. The completely clear kayaks allow you to see beneath the surface, making it a hit for families and nature lovers alike. The guide helps you spot herons, ibises, warblers, and more, turning each paddle into an educational adventure. With a max group size of 10 and reviews praising Elijah’s knowledge, this trip offers intimacy and personal attention. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Florida’s spring-fed ecosystems without any fuss.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxed, informative eco-tour in calm waters.
2. ECO adventure to Cypress Springs by Paddle Board or Kayak
Next on the list is the ECO adventure to Cypress Springs, offering a more immersive experience in Florida’s natural cold springs. This trip uses transparent paddle boards, unique for their see-through design that enhances the wildlife viewing. The tour includes transportation and a guide who assists you along the 30-40 minute paddle upstream, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax in the cool water. The downstream float back adds a leisurely finish. With a duration of around 3 to 5 hours and glowing reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and the stunning scenery, it’s great for all skill levels.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a more immersive, flexible trip that combines adventure and relaxation, this is a top option.
3. Fort Walton Beach: Tandem Kayak Rental
For around $35, the Tandem Kayak Rental in Fort Walton Beach offers a simple yet rewarding way to explore Emerald Coast’s waters at your own pace. This rental allows you to access secluded private islands only reachable by water, and the wildlife sightings include dolphins, various birds, and other aquatic creatures. The rental includes all safety gear, and staff provides a safety briefing, making it accessible for beginners. Its flexibility makes it ideal for a quick outing or a longer, more leisurely exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for independent travelers and families wanting flexibility and access to quiet, wildlife-rich spots.
4. Clear Kayak Ecotour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
At number 4, the Clear Kayak Ecotour Destin Ft. Walton Beach offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Paddle through Santa Rosa Sound in transparent kayaks, where you can marvel at vibrant fish and underwater scenery without getting wet. The guide shares insights into the local ecology, and the small group size (maximum 10) keeps it intimate. Reviewers mention the relaxing pace and beautiful wildlife sightings, with some noting the chance to stop on islands or observe dolphins.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a calm, educational paddle with great water clarity and personal attention.
5. Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
The Glow Tour ranks high for its unique glow-in-the-dark paddling at night. Using illuminated clear kayaks and headlamps, paddlers explore the salt marshes after sunset, experiencing the bioluminescent glow of microorganisms and nocturnal wildlife. The 90-minute tour is perfect for those wanting a magical, one-of-a-kind experience. Tour guides share stories and facts about the area’s flora and fauna, creating a lively, engaging atmosphere. Reviewers describe it as fun and exciting, especially noting how different it feels to paddle in darkness with glowing waters.
Bottom Line: Best suited for night owls and families looking for an extraordinary, memorable outing.
6. Destin Harbor Kayak Rental
Rent a kayak directly in Destin Harbor with this flexible option. The Harbor Kayak Rental lets you paddle across calm waters, explore the tidal pools, watch boats entering and leaving the Destin Pass, or relax on nearby Norriego Point’s beach. It’s a straightforward rental, perfect for a spontaneous adventure or a couple of hours on the water. With the convenience of maps and no fixed schedule, it’s ideal for independent explorers.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want the freedom to design your own water adventure on a scenic harbor.
$45 per group up to 2
7. Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach
This Kayak Adventure is a guided rental that takes you through the Gulf Island National Seashore’s pristine waters. The focus is on quiet exploration of secluded islands, white sand beaches, and lush vegetation. The guided aspect adds local insights and navigational tips, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. The experience emphasizes nature watching, with opportunities to see dolphins and a wide variety of birdlife.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a guided, nature-focused paddle in scenic surroundings.
$33.00 per group (up to 1)
8. Fort Walton Beach: Paddle Board Rental
Rent a paddleboard for your own exploration of the calm waters around Fort Walton Beach. The Paddle Board Rental is beginner-friendly, with easy-to-use boards and no experience needed. You can explore private islands, look for dolphins, and enjoy the white sandy beaches at your leisure. It’s an active, fun way to get some exercise while soaking in the scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a flexible, solo adventure on the water.
9. Paddle n Glow, night adventure in the bay of PCB, FL
The Paddle n Glow Night Adventure is the longest-running glow tour in PCB. With translucent boats and glow lights, you’ll paddle beneath stars, observing marine life and the city lights. Over 200 five-star reviews talk about the fun and safety of this experience, which is suited for small groups. It’s a lively, engaging way to see the bay at night, with guides sharing stories and spotting nocturnal animals like owls and small critters.
Bottom Line: Best for night owls and those wanting a lively, illuminated paddling experience.
10. Sunset Clear Kayak Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
This Sunset Tour offers clear kayaks for an unobstructed 360-degree view during sunset, exploring salt marshes and remote beaches. Limited to five kayaks, it promises a personal experience with guides sharing insights about local ecology. The calm waters and stunning sunsets make it a top choice for romantics and photographers alike. Reviewers mention the peaceful pace and beautiful wildlife sightings during this scenic paddle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers and those wanting a serene, intimate experience.
11. Destin FWB Full Moon Clear Kayak Tour
Limited to three nights a month, the Full Moon Clear Kayak Tour offers a rare chance to paddle under a full moon. The tour includes glow-in-the-dark elements and shares the moon’s history and significance as you float through calm waters. Although reviews are currently unavailable, this exclusive experience promises a quiet, reflective paddle with a special glow.
Bottom Line: Best for moonlight enthusiasts and travelers seeking a rare, peaceful night trip.
$64.95 per person
12. Harbor Kayak Rental in Destin, Florida
With this Harbor Kayak Rental, you can explore Destin Harbor and Norriego Point at your own pace. It’s perfect for a flexible, unstructured day of paddling, with options to visit natural pools or relax on the nearby beach. Use the provided maps to navigate and plan your route.
Bottom Line: Great for spontaneous explorers who want to craft their own water adventure.
$44.94 per group (up to 1)
13. Stand Up Paddle Board Adventures in Destin and Fort Walton Beach
Finally, the Stand Up Paddle Board Adventures offers a relaxed paddle through Gulf Island National Seashore. With white sandy beaches and opportunities to see dolphins and pelicans, this is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. The adventure is inexpensive, at just $22 per group, and lasts up to 2 hours. It’s a fun, active way to enjoy the scenic waters, especially on a sunny day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget travelers wanting a simple, enjoyable paddle.
$22.00 per group (up to 1)
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Destin
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and comfort level. For a relaxing family-friendly experience, the Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure offers wildlife and cave exploration in calm waters. If you’re after something more adventurous or unique, try the Glow Tour, which shines with bioluminescence at night. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Harbor Kayak Rental, which allows you to explore at your own pace. For those wanting a guided eco-trip, the Cypress Springs adventure is a great pick. Consider your fitness level, desired scenery, and time available to select the best fit.
Final Thoughts
Destin offers a wide range of canoe and kayak experiences that cater to different interests, from tranquil spring ecotours to glowing night adventures. If you’re seeking a family-friendly, wildlife-rich trip, the Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure stands out. For a more romantic or awe-inspiring experience, the Sunset or Full Moon Tours provide unforgettable moments under the sky. Budget travelers or those wanting freedom to explore can opt for kayak or paddleboard rentals like the Harbor Kayak or the Paddle Board Adventures.
Most tours fill quickly, especially during peak season, so early booking is recommended. Whatever your choice, Destin’s waters promise fun, discovery, and a splash of adventure.