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Incredible Scenery and Marine Life
Key West is an ocean lover’s paradise, with warm, crystal-clear waters and beautiful destinations for kayaking and paddle boarding. Incredible scenery and marine life make for an exciting paddling experience, with opportunities to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish swimming beneath you.
From paddle board yoga to mangrove kayak eco tours, Key West offers invigorating paddling tours and equipment rentals for the whole family.
FAQs
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Kayak tours in Key West explore calm, shallow waters around the island’s mangroves, backcountry, and wildlife sanctuaries. You’ll paddle through narrow channels, see tropical birds, fish, and sometimes even manatees or sea turtles. Tours are guided and suitable for all experience levels.
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No experience is required. Most tours are beginner-friendly and include a short orientation on paddling and safety. Guides are experienced and will lead you through calm, protected areas ideal for first-timers and families.
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Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a towel. Wear light, quick-drying clothing and water shoes or sandals. Don’t forget a waterproof phone case if you plan to take photos!
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Yes, most tours welcome families and kids ages 5 and up. Double kayaks make it easy for adults to paddle with children, and guides keep the pace relaxed for all participants.
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You may spot manatees, rays, sea turtles, nurse sharks, herons, and other tropical birds. Key West’s mangrove ecosystem is home to diverse marine life and fascinating plants, and guides will point out interesting species along the way.
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Kayaking is great year-round thanks to Key West’s tropical climate. Winter and spring (December–May) offer cooler, drier weather, while summer brings warmer water and lush greenery. Mornings and sunset tours are the calmest times for paddling.
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Tours generally operate in light rain, but if strong winds or storms make conditions unsafe, your tour may be rescheduled or refunded. You’ll be contacted by your operator with updated details.
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Moderate fitness is helpful, but most tours are designed for casual paddling at an easy pace. Breaks are frequent, and guides ensure everyone feels comfortable throughout the trip.
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Booking is simple and secure:
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Browse the kayak tours available on this page.
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Click “Book Now” on your chosen experience.
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Select your date and time.
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Choose the number of participants.
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Review details and the cancellation policy.
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Complete your secure checkout and receive instant confirmation by email.
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Key West Kayaking & Paddle Boarding
The natural beauty that surrounds Key West is best explored by kayak or paddle board! Rent everything you need to enjoy a day in the sun or embark on a guided tour for a more immersive experience. Unspoiled landscapes, diverse marine ecosystems and calm water make Key West one of the best places in the Florida Keys to go kayaking. Flats and mangrove islands are thrilling places to kayak or SUP… you never know what you’ll see beneath your vessel. Tropical fish, jellyfish, sea cucumbers, star fish, and crabs are just a few of the marine critters you might encounter as you paddle in mere inches of water through winding mangrove tunnels.
Beyond the Key West backcountry, the island’s sandy beaches offer countless places to launch your kayak or paddle board and spend some time on the water, with endless opportunities to hop out and go for a swim. Kayaking and paddleboarding are some of the most accessible water sports, and even young kids or people with no experience can join in on the fun.
Browse Key West kayak and SUP tours below and reserve your board or kayak today!