Discover why the Mangrove Tunnels of Lido Key are a must-do experience on the Gulf Coast.
Our tours launch from Ted Sperling Nature Park, which offers convenient restrooms, a refreshing shower, and shaded picnic areas.
Our knowledgeable local guides from Sea Life Kayak Adventures will lead you through Little Sarasota Bay. Keep an eye out for manatees, dolphins, various bird species, and other marine life.
The adventure culminates in the famous mangrove tunnels, a stunning natural canopy winding through an island.
The tour typically lasts around 2 hours, but we recommend allowing an extra half hour as we don't adhere to a strict schedule.
We are conveniently located just minutes from downtown Sarasota, 20 minutes from Siesta Key, and about 30 minutes from Anna Maria Island and Bradenton. Please factor in potential traffic delays during peak season.
Please note that we meet participants a half hour before the scheduled tour time.
✓ USCG Approved Life Jacket✓ Expert Local Guide✓ Professional Guide Services✓ Lightweight Carbon Fiber PaddleActivity Schedule
2 h
Embark on a wildlife expedition through the open waters of Little Sarasota Bay for approximately 2 hours, concluding within the serene, shaded mangrove tunnels of South Lido.
Don't forget your camera to capture memorable sightings of manatees, dolphins, rays, birds, and a rich variety of other wildlife.
Sea Life Kayak Adventures
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
Our meeting point is in the center of the trailer parking lot, specifically spot #5 counting from the right.
Look for the white "Sea Life Kayak Check-In" sandwich board sign.
If you have any difficulty locating us, please don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
Our meeting point is in the center of the trailer parking lot, specifically spot #5 counting from the right.
Look for the white "Sea Life Kayak Check-In" sandwich board sign.
If you have any difficulty locating us, please don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
This tour is wheelchair accessible. Suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. AM Tour: Tandem Kayak (2 people) This option is designed for 2 Adults and includes 1 Tandem Kayak, which accommodates two individuals. To book a Tandem Kayak, please reserve for 2 Adults. The maximum capacity for a Tandem Kayak is 2 people. PM Tour: Tandem Kayak (2 people) This option is designed for 2 Adults and includes 1 Tandem Kayak, which accommodates two individuals. To book a Tandem Kayak, please reserve for 2 Adults. The maximum capacity for a Tandem Kayak is 2 people. Afternoon Tour: Single Kayak This option is for 1 Adult and includes 1 Single Kayak. To book a Single Kayak, please reserve for 1 Adult. Morning Tour: Single Kayak This option is for 1 Adult and includes 1 Single Kayak. To book a Single Kayak, please reserve for 1 Adult. Arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Bring a camera to capture the wildlife. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that can get wet. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended. Stay hydrated by bringing water. Listen carefully to your guide's instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience. For a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 108117P1
Activity offered by Sea Life Kayak Adventures via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature enthusiasts Wildlife lovers Families Couples Individuals seeking outdoor adventure Explore the unique Mangrove Tunnels of Lido Key. Observe diverse local wildlife including manatees and dolphins. Guided tour by experienced local naturalists. Suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair accessible. Convenient launch location at Ted Sperling Nature Park. Enjoy the natural beauty of Little Sarasota Bay.
Population 54,842 (2020)
Elevation 7 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 16° Jan 18° Feb 20° Mar 23° Apr 26° May 28° Jun 28° Jul 28° Aug 27° Sept 24° Oct 20° Nov 18° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What wildlife can I expect to see? + You may see manatees, dolphins, rays, various bird species, and other marine life during the tour.
How long does the tour last? + The tour usually lasts around 2 hours, but please allow for an extra half hour as we are not on a strict schedule.
What is the meeting point? + We meet in the center of the trailer parking lot at Ted Sperling Nature Park, spot #5 counting from the right. Look for the white "Sea Life Kayak Check-In" sign.
Is this tour suitable for children? + Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
What is the cancellation policy? + You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Do this!!
M2512CJheatherj, October 2026
Ian was fun and informative. Had a great time - loved the manatee sightings!!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Kayak Kenny’s Amazing Adventure
gl0rianeh, October 2026
Our guide Kenny was very helpful, knowledgeable, funny & kind. I hadn’t kayaked in a very long time & he patiently refreshed my memory 😁
★★★★★ Viator review
Holy Moly Mullet
chris_R, October 2026
Holy moly mullet, Batman!!! A must do experience. Ask for Joan (Jo-wan) the super guide! He’s only lost 20% of his clients in the mangroves. Later to be found at Owen’s Fish Camp.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
For the best in kayak rentals with an experienced and knowledge guide
karingK1043ZW, October 2026
What a wonderful kayak experience with my four dear friends. Our guide, Ian was hilarious and very knowledgeable. We took the morning kayak and it was an absolutely outstanding day on the Sarasota Bay.! Highly recommend sea life kayaking company.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Kayaking after the storm
Navigate50258360367, October 2026
We're visiting from out of state and had a great time. Glad we got to swim in the water too. Beautiful day out on the kayaks.
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