Paddle mangrove tunnels with a biologist guide and free HD photos
~2.5 hours
Biologist guide, HD photos
Explore the backwaters of the Rookery Bay Reserve as you paddle through winding mangrove tunnels, mudflats, and oyster reefs with a biologist guide. Practice basic paddling skills and keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way.
Plan to wade knee-deep to launch and wear footwear you do not mind getting wet. A $10 parking pass may be required at Capri Paddlecraft Park if you do not have a Collier County Beach Parking Sticker. Cash gratuity is recommended but not required.
Full refund or free reschedule with at least 48 hours notice. Rescheduling within 48 hours may incur a fee up to 50%. Changes/reschedules not allowed within 24 hours; refund not expected. No-shows charged full price. Weather cancellations are decided by Rising Tide Explorers.
Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled launch time so you can get fitted with personal flotation devices (PFDs) and kayaks before you launch.
Yes. Plan to wade knee-deep in the water to launch, and wear footwear you do not mind getting wet.
Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, a hat or other sun protection, and water shoes or closed-toed shoes (they will get wet).
The guides here are consistently the standout feature, with names like Evan, Eben, Winston, Gerald, and Derek earning individual praise for their genuine expertise and personable approach. Many are biologists or have advanced degrees in marine science, and it shows in how they bring the ecosystem to life. They dive down to retrieve sea creatures for closer looks, share fascinating details about mangrove propagation, and maintain an engaging commentary throughout the 2.5 to 3-hour tours. Families appreciate how patient and accommodating the guides are with nervous kayakers and children. The tours explore Rookery Bay's mangrove tunnels and mudflats, offering sightings of dolphins, frigate birds, ospreys, sea stars, and various marine life. Reviewers love the conservation mission behind the operation, knowing their fees support environmental work in the area. Multiple visitors warn about serious sun exposure since your legs remain uncovered in the kayaks, so come prepared with sun-protective clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen. The physical effort is moderate but sustained, so it's best suited for those without significant mobility limitations. Repeat customers speak volumes about the quality of the experience.
Our shelling tour was excellent! Loved asking questions to the captains/tour guides who were EXTREMELY knowledgeable. Beautiful beach with fabulous shells. I can’t wait to go to the aquarium.
Ellen Tamburello
April 2, 2026
Our shelling tour was excellent! Loved asking questions to the captains/tour guides who were EXTREMELY knowledgeable. Beautiful beach with fabulous shells. I can’t wait to go to the aquarium.
Ellen Tamburello
April 2, 2026