St. Augustine Wildlife Adventure: Boat Cruise & Kayak Tour

Looking for a way to see St. Augustine’s scenic coastline while connecting with nature? This 2-hour boat and kayak experience offers an engaging slice of Northeast Florida’s coast, combining a leisurely cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway with a guided kayak trip on Anastasia Island. At $45 per person, it’s a surprisingly good value for a chance to spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birdlife—plus enjoy some snacks and drinks afterward.

We especially appreciated the expert guides, who brought not just safety but a wealth of local knowledge, and the stunning views of historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. These sights are best appreciated from the water, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s past and natural beauty.

A possible consideration? The two-person kayak setup means you’ll be paddling with a partner, and guests should be prepared to get slightly wet—so water-appropriate clothing is advisable. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of gentle adventure, scenic sightseeing, and wildlife encounters, especially those eager to explore Florida’s coastline in an intimate, relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views of St. Augustine’s landmarks and Anastasia Island
• Wildlife sightings including dolphins, manatees, and various bird species
• Expert guides enhancing the experience with local insights
• Comfortable boat cruise with views and snacks
• Guided kayak tour offering a peaceful paddle through tidal waters
• Inclusive snacks and beverages for a relaxing after-activity treat

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

When you sign up for the St. Augustine Wildlife Adventure, you’re signing up for a balanced taste of coastal history, natural beauty, and gentle adventure. The day begins at the Vilano Beach Public Pier, where the crew, easily identified by the bluebird and dolphin arch, will greet you and prepare you for a two-hour excursion.

The Scenic Boat Cruise

The cruise starts with a leisurely ride along the Intracoastal Waterway, which is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. As you glide past the Castillo de San Marcos, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and the iconic Bridge of Lions, you’ll see the city’s historic architecture from a different vantage point.

Our guide, who we’ll call Lisa, pointed out that “the views of the city’s skyline from the water really put its history into context,” and we couldn’t agree more. The cruise doesn’t just show pretty sights—you’re also getting a sense of how this city grew along these waterways, with their natural and man-made landmarks.

The Kayaking Adventure

Anchoring near Anastasia Island, the guides lead you into a serene paddling journey through tidal creeks and marshes. Here, the real magic happens. You might spot dolphins playing just off the bow, manatees lazily grazing, or various waterbirds like herons, ospreys, and roseate spoonbills.

One review mentioned, “The guides are incredibly knowledgeable about local wildlife, which made the experience even more special,” and this kind of detailed commentary can truly enhance your appreciation of the surroundings. The quiet paddle through these lush, natural habitats offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city scenes.

Post-Paddle Relaxation

After kayaking, everyone returns to the boat for some well-deserved snacks and drinks. The selection includes complimentary packaged snacks, water, soda, and for those 21 and over, beer and wine. This relaxed moment allows you to reflect on the sights and sounds of the coast, all while enjoying the scenic backdrop of the water.

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What to Expect & Practical Details

The entire tour is designed for a relaxed pace—expect to be on the water for about two hours, with the cruise and kayaking each providing their own scenic highlights. The group size tends to be small enough to allow personalized attention from guides, typically two guests per kayak, emphasizing a partner paddling setup.

Guests should come prepared with comfortable clothes, sun protection, and swimwear if they want to keep dry or get wet during the kayak. Be aware that no single rider kayaks are available, and guests might get wet, so water-friendly attire is a smart choice. No pets or glass objects are allowed, and alcohol consumption is restricted until after the kayaking ends, ensuring safety on the water.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $45, this experience packs a lot into two hours—stunning visuals, wildlife encounters, and insider stories from guides—making it a worthwhile investment. The inclusion of snacks and beverages adds to the sense of comfort, and the quality of the guides ensures you’re not just floating along but truly understanding what you’re seeing.

Plus, the scenic landmarks viewed from the water create memorable photo opportunities—something many reviews highlight as a highlight. The relaxed pace makes it accessible for most travelers, whether you’re a casual sightseeing lover or a wildlife enthusiast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is particularly perfect for those who want a blend of sightseeing and nature without strenuous activity. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers eager to experience Florida’s coast from the water, with a bonus of wildlife watching that’s engaging and informative. If you’re interested in historic landmarks seen from a fresh perspective or enjoy gentle paddling in a peaceful setting, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The St. Augustine Wildlife Adventure offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and local history. The knowledgeable guides make the journey educational and fun, while the scenic views from the boat and kayak provide plenty of photo-worthy moments.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate a small-group feel and want an authentic experience away from tourist-heavy hotspots. The combination of relaxed cruising, gentle kayaking, and wildlife spotting makes it both fun and meaningful.

If you’re visiting St. Augustine and looking to connect with its natural charm in a comfortable, engaging way, this tour is a solid pick—especially if you love outdoor adventures with a scenic twist.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including both the cruise and kayak portions.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Vilano Beach Public Pier, near the giant bluebird and dolphin arch, on the floating dock.

Is there a minimum age or group size?
Guests under 18 need a guardian present, and typically, there are two guests per kayak. Single riders aren’t available, emphasizing partner paddling.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and swimwear if you want to get wet. Water-resistant clothing is recommended.

Can I bring pets?
No, pets are not allowed on this tour.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, snacks and drinks are included—water, soda, and, for those 21+, beer and wine after kayaking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility should your plans change.

Is there an age restriction for drinking alcohol?
Yes, only guests 21+ with valid ID can consume alcohol, and it is only served after the kayak tour.

Is photography permitted?
Photos aren’t included but are available for purchase afterward. The focus is on the experience, so bring your camera but be mindful of wildlife and safety.

This St. Augustine Wildlife Adventure tour provides a wonderful way to see the city’s coast from the water, blending sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxing fun. Perfect for those who appreciate a balanced outing that’s both scenic and educational—it’s a memorable way to explore Florida’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: