Raccoon Island Exploration on SUP/Kayak

Experience the Natural Charm of Raccoon Island with a Kayak or SUP Tour

Imagine paddling through the peaceful mangroves of Miami, the sun warming your back, and the sounds of wildlife surrounding you. For about three hours, for $99 per person, you can explore the Osprey Nature Preserve by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, heading out to Sandspur Island, affectionately known as Raccoon Island. Guided by enthusiastic, knowledgeable locals—like Sean and CJ, who are praised for their friendly expertise—you’ll get a personal encounter with Florida’s diverse wildlife and lush scenery. The tour is limited to just 11 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, relaxed experience.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see raccoons up close, fed with watermelon and grapes, in their natural habitat. The guides’ ability to teach about local ecosystems while keeping everyone comfortable is another highlight. Plus, the inclusion of snacks and drinks—both non-alcoholic and alcoholic—adds a relaxed, social vibe. The only thing to consider is that the paddle across open water can be challenging if the wind picks up, but for most, that’s part of the adventure.

This experience is perfect if you’re eager to connect with nature in a straightforward, friendly setting. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy gentle physical activity, wildlife watching, and small-group settings. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, the guides make it accessible and fun. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this tour offers a memorable, authentic slice of Miami’s coastal ecosystem.

Key Points

• Small-group experience for more personal attention and less crowding
• Wildlife encounters with raccoons, crabs, iguanas, and more
• All equipment and snacks provided, with options for alcoholic beverages
• Expert guides who are friendly, informative, and patient
• Paddle through mangroves and enjoy stunning views
• Limited availability with an average booking of 16 days in advance

Exploring Miami’s Hidden Ecosystem by Kayak or Paddleboard

Miami often conjures images of sun, beaches, and nightlife, but its natural side is just as captivating. The Raccoon Island tour offers a chance to step away from the typical tourist spots and venture into a peaceful, wildlife-rich environment. Spanning roughly three hours, this guided experience balances active exploration with relaxed enjoyment, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from nature lovers to adventure newcomers.

The Journey Begins in Miami Beach

You’ll start at a meeting point on Collins Avenue, where friendly guides like CJ or Sean get everyone briefed and ready. The gear is all provided—kayak or paddleboard, life jacket, and safety instructions—making it easy to jump right into the water. Once underway, your guide will take you through the mangroves, a tangle of roots and tunnels that are home to countless creatures. The calm waters and gentle currents make for a smooth paddle, suitable even for beginners.

Navigating the Mangroves

Paddling under the shade of mangrove trees, you’ll appreciate the tranquility far from Miami’s hustle. Reviewers mention how peaceful this part of the trip is, with some noting how the lush scenery is breathtaking. Guides are eager to share their knowledge about the ecosystem—crabs, fish, and plant life—adding depth to the experience. Expect to see crabs scuttling along the roots and perhaps spot iguanas lounging nearby.

Reaching Raccoon Island

After about 20 minutes of paddling, you’ll arrive at Sandspur Island—home to the charming raccoons. This brief boat ride from the mainland is a highlight; the guides take care of the logistics, so you can focus on the fun. Once on the island, you’ll have time to explore, swim, and, most famously, feed the raccoons.

Wildlife Encounters and Feeding

Reviews repeatedly praise the raccoons’ friendliness—they come right up to visitors, looking for grapes or watermelon. Feeding these clever creatures is a delightful activity, with guides often providing the fruit, though some guests bring their own. One review notes, “They loved drinking water and grapes,” which shows how comfortable these raccoons are in the wild. Watching their curious, gentle behavior makes for truly memorable photos.

The Return Paddle and Reflection

After some time on the island, it’s back to paddling through the mangroves or relaxing on the water. It’s a gentle, scenic route that allows you to take in Miami’s natural beauty from a different perspective. Many reviewers mention how calming and enjoyable the paddle was, with one describing it as “breathtaking.”

What Truly Sets This Tour Apart

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

From the reviews, guides like CJ, Sean, and Liam stand out for their patience, enthusiasm, and depth of knowledge. They’re not just there to lead but to educate and ensure everyone feels comfortable, especially those new to kayaking or paddleboarding. One guest said CJ was “more than amazing,” highlighting how much these guides enhance the experience.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

Feeding raccoons and observing their interactions is a highlight that makes this tour special. The animals are surprisingly friendly, and their antics are captivating. With many reviewers mentioning how adorable and gentle the raccoons are, it’s clear that this experience offers genuine wildlife viewing—no zoo cages, just nature doing its thing.

Scenic and Peaceful Environment

The combination of paddling through mangroves and relaxing on the island provides a peaceful break from Miami’s busy streets. The scenery is described as “beautiful,” “breathtaking,” and “serene,” making this a perfect escape for those seeking a tranquil outdoor adventure.

Value for Money

At $99, the tour includes all equipment, guides, snacks, and drinks, making it a solid value considering the personalized experience and wildlife encounters. Many reviews emphasize how worth the price this adventure is, especially since it offers a mix of active fun and relaxing wildlife watching.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While many travelers rave about the experience, some mention minor issues like the paddle across the open water being challenging against the wind. Also, since availability is often booked about 16 days in advance, planning ahead is advisable. Plus, the meeting point isn’t explicitly detailed in the initial info, which could cause confusion; calling the provider ahead or verifying the location is recommended.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic wildlife encounters and peaceful outdoor activities. It suits families, solo travelers, and small groups looking for a manageable adventure that combines gentle physical activity with educational content. If you enjoy small-group experiences where guides are passionate and knowledgeable, this tour will meet your expectations.

Those with limited kayaking or paddleboarding experience will find the guides attentive and patient, making it accessible even for beginners. It’s especially attractive to nature lovers wanting a more personal and less commercialized interaction with Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

The Sum Up

The Raccoon Island exploration offers a unique mix of scenic paddling, wildlife watching, and relaxed island fun. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate encounter with Miami’s natural environment, away from the crowded beaches and busy streets. The knowledgeable guides, peaceful scenery, and charming raccoons make for a memorable outing that’s both leisurely and enriching.

While it does require some paddling effort, the overall experience is well worth it, especially considering the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and the chance to feed the animals. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a first-time paddler, or just looking for a different perspective on Miami, this tour delivers genuine value and fun.

If you’re planning ahead and love outdoor adventures, this could be one of the highlights of your Miami trip. It’s a charming way to connect with nature, enjoy some light exercise, and see the local wildlife in their element—all with a friendly guide by your side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are friendly and patient, explaining everything clearly. Many reviews highlight that first-timers felt comfortable and enjoyed the experience.

What is included in the price?
All equipment (kayak or paddleboard, safety gear), snacks, and drinks—both non-alcoholic and alcoholic—are provided, making it easy to focus on the fun.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about three hours, including paddling, wildlife encounters, and exploring the island.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour provides snacks and drinks, including watermelon and grapes for feeding raccoons. It’s best to follow the guide’s recommendations and use the provided supplies.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 16 days ahead, as spots fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, but double-check with the provider for exact directions, as the address isn’t explicitly listed on the booking info.

Are drinks and snacks suitable for all ages?
Yes, the included refreshments cater to a broad audience, and feeding the raccoons is a family-friendly activity.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 11 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and personal experience.

Whether you’re seeking wildlife, scenic paddling, or just a peaceful day out, this Raccoon Island tour offers genuine fun and fascinating encounters in a stunning setting.