St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour

If you’re after an authentic way to experience St. Augustine’s scenic waterways and encounter some of Florida’s most majestic marine mammals, this 2-hour paddleboard or kayak tour is a wonderful choice. Priced at $65 per person, it’s a fairly accessible activity that combines gentle adventure with wildlife spotting—perfect for nature lovers and families alike. Guided by knowledgeable guides, this tour promises the chance to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and crabs, all in their natural habitat.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances informative guidance with casual, fun paddling—no need to be an expert paddler, as a quick demonstration gets you ready. Plus, the stunning views of Anastasia State Park’s sand dunes add a scenic backdrop to every paddle stroke. On the flip side, you might want to consider that weather conditions can affect the experience—rain or wind could limit wildlife sightings or make paddling more challenging.

This tour is especially well-suited for beginners and families, given the emphasis on safety, comfort, and ease of paddling. If you’re looking for a memorable, active way to connect with St. Augustine’s natural environment, this would be a great fit. Whether you’re visiting alone, as a couple, or with kids, the friendly guides make sure everyone has fun and learns something along the way.

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and crabs in their natural habitat.
Skill Level Friendly: No experience necessary; quick water and paddling demo included.
Scenic Setting: Paddle past Anastasia State Park’s impressive sand dunes.
Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share wildlife facts.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—great for spontaneous plans.
Affordable Value: At $65, this tour offers a memorable experience at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Imagine starting your adventure right on the waterfront at Lighthouse Park, where your guide greets you and quickly covers the basics of paddling. Whether you choose a stand-up paddleboard or a kayak, you’ll get a brief demo and water lesson—crucial for first-timers or those needing a refresher. Once underway, the focus shifts to wildlife viewing—and here’s where the magic begins.

Traveling through the narrow waterways of St. Augustine, you’ll keep your eyes peeled for dolphins—these playful creatures are often found swimming close to the paddlers, sometimes jumping out of the water just feet away. The reviews highlight guides like Ryan, Noah, and Spence as especially engaging, with many pointing out their knowledge about local wildlife and their ability to make everyone feel at ease, from the most experienced paddlers to complete beginners.

One reviewer recalls, “We saw a pod of like 6 or 7 dolphins so close up,” which captures just how close and personal these sightings can be. The landscape itself is a treat, with 30-foot-high sand dunes of Anastasia State Park acting as a striking natural border. The guides often point out sea turtles and crabs along the way, adding layers of interest for nature buffs.

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Wildlife Spotting and Marine Life

The real highlight here is the chance to see dolphins and manatees in their habitat. According to reviews, guides like Noah are not only friendly but also well-versed in local fauna, making each encounter informative. Many guests mention how guides help with mastering paddleboarding, which can be nerve-wracking at first but becomes fun with the right assistance.

You might also spot sea turtles, shrimp, and various birds—adding to the sense of natural discovery. The tour’s moderate pace and small group size allow for plenty of up-close viewing, making it a memorable experience without feeling rushed or crowded.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Approachable

Reading through reviews, the guides’ personalities and expertise shine through. Guests describe them as friendly, patient, and highly knowledgeable. For example, one reviewer states, “Ryan was patient and encouraging,” while another praises Spence for his explanations about wildlife. These guides go beyond surface information, making the experience engaging and educational.

Their ability to connect with everyone—from teenagers to seniors—is a big plus. Many reviews mention specific help with paddling techniques, which makes the activity accessible for all skill levels.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from Lighthouse Park, making it easy to access in downtown St. Augustine. The meeting point is right on the waterfront, removing any complicated transportation worries. Each session lasts about two hours, generally scheduled in the morning or afternoon, offering flexibility to fit different itineraries.

The cost of $65 per person reflects the price of equipment rental, a guided experience, and wildlife sightings—a fair deal given the quality of interaction and scenery. Plus, the ability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand is helpful if weather or other plans change unexpectedly.

Weather plays a crucial role—poor weather may lead to cancellations or less wildlife activity. Nevertheless, the company offers rescheduling or full refunds if conditions aren’t suitable, providing peace of mind.

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Group Size and Atmosphere

Most reviews mention small groups, often with friendly, engaging guides. This intimate setting ensures a more personal experience, allowing guides to tailor the tour to the group’s interests and paddling skill level. Expect to share the water with a handful of other paddlers, creating a relaxed, communal vibe.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This paddle or kayak tour is perfect for beginners wanting an up-close wildlife encounter without the pressure of advanced skills. Families with children as young as 8 or 10, who are comfortable paddling, will find it suitable—many reviews mention kids and seniors enjoying the experience. It also appeals to nature lovers eager to learn about local marine life from friendly guides.

If you’re seeking a low-stress, scenic outdoor activity that offers the chance to see dolphins and manatees in their home waters, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal if you want a personalized, educational experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife viewing.

In The Sum Up

This St. Augustine dolphin and manatee paddle or kayak tour offers a delightful way to experience the area’s natural beauty. For only $65, you get guides who are both knowledgeable and personable, equipment suited for all skill levels, and the chance to see some of Florida’s most iconic marine animals up close. The scenic backdrop of Anastasia State Park’s dunes makes every paddle stroke more memorable.

It’s a fantastic choice for families, first-time paddlers, and wildlife enthusiasts. With flexible booking options and a focus on safety and fun, it provides genuine value for those wanting to combine outdoor activity with wildlife discovery.

While weather can be a factor, the company’s policies ensure you won’t lose out if conditions aren’t ideal. If you’re looking for an active, educational, and scenic experience in St. Augustine, this tour is well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all skill levels, with a quick demo and water lesson provided before setting out, making it accessible for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring your sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing. Paddling is a light workout, so wearing comfortable clothes and footwear that can get wet is advised. Shoes should be left in the car, as suggested by some reviews.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If the weather is poor, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 2 hours, including the water safety briefing and paddling time.

Where do we meet?
The tour departs from Lighthouse Park, right on the shoreline at the waterfront.

What marine animals might we see?
Guests often see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, crabs, and various birds. Sightings depend on weather and wildlife activity.

Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely, many reviews mention families with kids enjoying the tour, especially if they are comfortable paddling.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $65 per person, which includes equipment and guide services. It’s a good value given the memorable wildlife encounters and scenic setting.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an outdoor activity lover, or a family seeking a fun adventure, this paddle or kayak tour in St. Augustine delivers a balanced mix of education, scenery, and wildlife. It’s a genuine, accessible way to see Florida’s marine life, guided by friendly experts who make every moment count.