Dolphin, Manatee and SeaTurtle SUP Adventure Tour of St Augustine

Imagine gliding quietly over the water, eyes peeled for playful dolphins, gentle sea turtles, and the rare West Indian manatee — all within arm’s reach. This Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle SUP Adventure Tour offers just that, combining a relaxed paddle with the chance to see some of Florida’s most captivating marine creatures. For $65 a person, you get about two hours of guided water exploration, starting from the boat ramp in St. Augustine, with options to paddle either kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP).

What makes this tour truly special? First, the personalized experience — you pick your vessel and start time, making it flexible for your schedule. Second, the quality of wildlife sightings — many reviews highlight close encounters with dolphins and turtles, often lasting long enough to make even seasoned nature lovers grin.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the weather — since the tour is weather-dependent and can be canceled if conditions are poor, it’s wise to plan for a backup date or be prepared for potential rescheduling. This experience is ideal for adventurous families, nature buffs, or anyone eager to see Florida’s coast from a new perspective. If you enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and wildlife spotting, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Flexible options for paddleboarding or kayaking suit different preferences and skill levels
• Wildlife sightings often include dolphins, sea turtles, and occasional manatees
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and interesting facts
• Beautiful scenery around Anastasia State Park and the historic St. Augustine Lighthouse
• All gear included, making it a hassle-free outdoor adventure
• Weather cancellations possible, so plan accordingly

An Honest Look at the Dolphin, Manatee, and Sea Turtle SUP Adventure

When it comes to exploring St. Augustine’s coastal waters, this tour balances laid-back fun with the thrill of wildlife encounters. At just $65 per person, the value is hard to beat, especially considering the reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and friendly manner.

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off at the 442 Ocean Vista Ave boat ramp, with three start times to choose from. The tour lasts roughly two hours, a perfect length to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The group size maxes out at 20, which helps keep the experience intimate and easier for guides to provide personalized attention.

What’s Included and What to Expect

All the necessary gear — paddleboards, kayaks, paddles, and life vests — are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment unless you prefer it. The guides, like Noah and Spencer, are consistently praised for their knowledge of local wildlife and their ability to make everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer.

Once on the water, you’ll paddle along the coast of Anastasia State Park, marveling at the towering sand dunes and the lush mangroves. The scenery here is stunning, especially as you approach the historic St. Augustine Lighthouse, which provides a picturesque backdrop for your wildlife search.

Wildlife Encounters

This is the heart of the tour. Reviews repeatedly mention close dolphin sightings, with some guests watching pods swim around their boats for up to 45 minutes. One reviewer said, “Noah was great. We sat and watched a couple of Dolphins play for 45 minutes.” The chance to see sea turtles is common, and even manatees — the elusive West Indian kind — are sometimes spotted, though not guaranteed.

A notable aspect is the timing and patience needed for wildlife viewing. Several reviews mention that sightings can depend on weather, tides, and luck — but guides are vigilant and eager to help you spot these creatures.

The Scenic Stop at Anastasia State Park

Your route includes a paddle along the towering 30-foot sand dunes of Anastasia State Park. This area is a protected habitat, teeming with wildlife and showcasing Florida’s natural beauty. It’s a calm, quiet stretch ideal for soaking in the views and spotting birds and marine life.

Ending with a Visit to the Lighthouse

The tour wraps up back at the starting point with a visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. While the focus is on wildlife, the lighthouse itself is a historic and iconic feature of the area, providing a satisfying conclusion to your aquatic adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a low-pressure, nature-focused outing. Families with kids will appreciate the easy paddle and the chance to see wildlife up close, making it a memorable outing. Nature lovers will find the guides’ insights add depth to the experience, and adventure seekers will enjoy the exciting possibility of dolphin encounters.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic wildlife watching, beautiful scenery, and friendly guides, this tour has everything you’re looking for. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer an outdoor activity that combines gentle exercise with educational fun.

A Deep Dive: What Makes This Experience Stand Out

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a brief intro and gear setup at the boat ramp, followed by a paddle along Anastasia State Park’s coastline. You’ll glide past tall sand dunes and mangroves, both of which are vital habitats for many species. The guides often point out local flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of this fragile ecosystem.

The primary highlight is the wildlife search. You might find yourself sitting in silence as dolphins swim around just feet away — some guests have observed dolphins playing in circles for nearly an hour. Sea turtles are also common, often seen poking their heads above the water. Occasionally, lucky paddlers spot manatees, though these gentle giants are more elusive.

The tour concludes with a visit to the lighthouse, which isn’t just a photo op but a reminder of St. Augustine’s maritime significance. It’s a leisurely, scenic way to end a peaceful paddle.

The Experience of the Guides

From multiple reviews, guides like Ryan, Noah, Spencer, and Joseph are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. Whether guiding first-timers or seasoned paddlers, they share interesting facts and keep the group safe and engaged.

One guest exclaimed, “Spence was great! Even though we didn’t get to see dolphins, he made it a great trip.” This highlights that, even if wildlife isn’t immediately visible, the guides’ professionalism shines through.

The Value for Money

At $65, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering all gear and expert guiding included. The personalized experience and likelihood of wildlife sightings make it a worthwhile investment for nature lovers. Plus, the option to choose between kayak and paddleboard allows flexibility based on your fitness level or preference.

Considerations and Tips

Since weather plays a role, it’s best to check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling. The tours are most suitable for most travelers, including families, but should be avoided during rough weather. Arriving a little early helps ensure a smooth start.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides more than just a water activity; it’s an opportunity to connect with Florida’s coast on a personal level. The beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and wildlife sightings combine to make it a memorable outing. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply want to enjoy a peaceful paddle with a chance for surprises, you’re likely to leave with stories to tell.

FAQs

What should I bring?
All gear, including paddleboards, kayaks, paddles, and life vests, are provided, so just bring your sense of adventure, sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather.

Can I do this tour if I’ve never paddled before?
Absolutely. The guides are very friendly and help with basic instructions, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced paddlers.

What wildlife might I see?
Most often, guests see dolphins, sea turtles, and sometimes manatees. The sightings depend on weather and tides, but guides are great at spotting wildlife and pointing it out.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling exhausted.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, many reviews mention families with kids having a fantastic time. It’s suitable for most ages, especially with a guide helping to keep everyone safe and engaged.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. You will be offered a different date or a full refund if that happens.

Final Words

The Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle SUP Adventure Tour in St. Augustine offers a genuine, low-key way to experience Florida’s marine environment. It combines the thrill of wildlife sightings with the serenity of paddling along scenic coastlines, all led by guides who genuinely love sharing their knowledge.

It’s a fantastic choice for families, nature lovers, or anyone craving a peaceful outdoor escape. While weather can sometimes influence plans, when conditions are right, this tour delivers a memorable, value-packed experience that will likely stay with you long after you’ve packed away your paddles. If you’re ready to see dolphins dance or turtles glide beneath your paddle, this tour is well worth considering.