Naples may be famous for its upscale shopping and stunning Gulf Coast beaches, but it’s also a fantastic destination for walking tours that reveal its natural beauty and wildlife. While many visitors stick to the beaches or golf courses, those who take the time to explore on foot, by boat, or kayak will find a variety of engaging options. We especially like tours that combine hands-on wildlife encounters with expert guidance, like the Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour Everglades, which offers a rich mix of ecosystems, wildlife, and local history all in one half-day adventure. Whether you’re keen on spotting dolphins and manatees or learning about the flora and fauna from a US Coast Guard-certified naturalist, Naples has something for every nature lover.
If you’re looking for an authentic and active outdoor experience, Naples’s walking tours and eco adventures stand out. These excursions allow you to enjoy Florida’s natural landscapes at a relaxed pace, perfect for families, bird-watchers, or anyone wanting more than just a scenic drive. Among these, the tours in the Everglades provide an immersive look into the wetlands, far from crowds and noise. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated options to help you pick the best fit for your trip.
1. Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour Everglades
At number 1 on our list is the Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour Everglades. For around $200, this 3.5-hour eco-adventure combines boat rides, kayaking, and walking, making it a comprehensive way to experience the Florida Everglades. Led by a US Coast Guard-certified naturalist, the tour begins at Everglades Area Tours and explores remote parts of the park like the Ten Thousand Islands and Chokoloskee Island, where you’ll learn about the Calusa Indians and modern settlers.
What sets this tour apart is its versatility. You get to see dolphins, manatees, and bald eagles, while also hiking along beaches, dunes, and mangrove swamps. The small-group format means more personalized attention, so guides can tailor the experience based on wildlife sightings. Passengers consistently praise the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge—”Captain Don is a true pro,” wrote one reviewer. Since the tour includes a boat ride, kayak paddling, and walking, it’s perfect for travelers who want a full sensory experience without the noise of an airboat.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a balanced mix of activities and an intimate naturalist-led experience. If you prefer a detailed, hands-on look at the wildlife and ecosystems of the Everglades, this is a top pick.
2. Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour
Coming in at number 2 is the Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour. Similar in scope and price to the first, this 3.5-hour tour emphasizes wildlife viewing and eco-education. Led by a Florida Master Naturalist, it starts with a boat ride in the Everglades, where you’ll spot dolphins, herons, and egrets, then continues with a kayaking segment on peaceful waters that boats can’t access—great for close encounters with shorebirds and marine life.
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to explore a barrier island on foot, providing a change of scene and additional wildlife viewing. Guests rave about the guide’s expert knowledge—”Captain Dan was incredibly knowledgeable,” one review notes—and his ability to spot animals and tell their stories. It’s a relaxed, unhurried experience suited for families and nature enthusiasts who want to see a wide variety of wildlife without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who want a rich, naturalistic experience with plenty of wildlife sightings and a focus on eco-education. It’s a great choice for travelers eager to paddle and walk in the natural habitats of the Everglades.
3. Everglades Small Group Guided Boating and Walking Expedition
At number 3, the Everglades Small Group Guided Boating and Walking Expedition offers a more intimate experience. This 3.5-hour tour is limited to just six guests, which means more personal interaction with the naturalist guide. It begins with a scenic boat ride in the 10,000 Islands, avoiding the noise and environmental impact of loud airboats.
What makes this tour special is its focus on wildlife and ecosystem education. You’ll see dolphins, manatees, and many bird species, while your guide shares insights about the flora and fauna. After the boat, the group departs to explore an uninhabited barrier island, adding a tactile and visual element to the experience. Guests comment that the guide’s expertise—”He was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions”—makes a big difference.
Bottom line: This tour offers a quiet, educational experience ideal for travelers who want a calm, small-group outing with ample wildlife viewing and a chance to explore a barrier island footpath.
4. Everglades Small Group Guided Boating & Walking Tour Expedition
Number 4 is the Everglades Small Group Guided Boating & Walking Tour Expedition. For $199.95, this 3.5-hour tour from Fort Myers takes you deep into the Ten Thousand Islands aboard a powerboat. The focus is on wildlife and ecosystems, with a naturalist guide pointing out alligators, sea turtles, eagles, and more.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of a boat tour and a brief walking segment on a barrier island. The boat seats up to six people, ensuring a personalized experience. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable the guide, Captain Dan, is and how much they learned about the environment. It’s well-suited for travelers interested in a more active, educational experience with plenty of wildlife spotting, but with minimal walking—about 200 feet.
Bottom line: This adventure suits wildlife fans who want a hands-on, guided boat trip plus a quick walk on a remote island, providing a good mix of activities for a half-day outing.
5. 10,000 Islands Boat Tour + Naturalist Led Walk in the Everglades
Finally, at number 5, the 10,000 Islands Boat Tour + Naturalist Led Walk is a 5.5-hour adventure from Naples with a more relaxed pace and a focus on remote estuary ecosystems. Starting with a drive east from Naples, you’ll visit the Oasis Visitor Center and Kirby Storter Roadside Park, exploring prairie and cypress swamp habitats.
During the boat ride, naturalist guides help you spot dolphins, manatees, and various bird species like roseate spoonbills and pelicans. The tour includes a walk on a remote island, listening to fascinating stories about the Old Everglades. Guests with a deep interest in wildlife and ecosystems appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to see a variety of species in a less-touristy setting.
Bottom line: This longer, immersive tour suits nature lovers wanting a combination of wildlife viewing, cultural lore, and the chance to explore different habitats in one trip.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you want a full-day wildlife immersion, the 10,000 Islands Boat Tour + Naturalist Led Walk offers the most time and variety. For a quick, intimate experience, the Everglades Small Group Guided Boating and Walking Expedition is ideal. Budget travelers can find great value in tours that combine multiple activities for just under $200.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially in peak season, to secure spots on these popular tours. Some tours focus on wildlife, others on ecosystems and history—think about what excites you most and match accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Naples offers a fascinating range of outdoor experiences that bring you close to Florida’s unique wetlands and wildlife. Whether you prefer a half-day eco-adventure with kayaking and hiking, a quiet boat tour with minimal crowding, or a longer exploration of the Everglades’ diverse habitats, there’s something for all.
For active travelers eager to see dolphins and manatees, the Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour Everglades stands out. Nature lovers who want a more personal, in-depth experience might enjoy the Everglades Small Group Guided Boating and Walking Expedition. Whichever you choose, early booking ensures a spot on these popular tours—so plan ahead to make the most of your outdoor adventure in Naples.