Shell Key Preserve: Unique Local Kayak Adventure
5.0
150 Ratings
Tierra Verde
Join Scott and Karissa, the owners and guides of Island Kayak Tours, for a unique and unforgettable kayak adventure through the mangrove tunnels of Shell Key Preserve. Discover the beauty of St. Petersburg, Florida, and get a chance to see dolphins, manatees, and more!
Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Tierra Verde - Tours take place in Shell Key Preserve. As a native Floridian, I will guide you through the backcountry of the preserve. Through shallow grassy meadows we go, watching fish jump and birds hunt; all the while, ducking through the mangrove tunnels (tide permitting) and allowing time for pictures and explanations of the surrounding habitat. Most of the area we paddle in is typically only frequented by locals and is off-limits to motorized vessels.
What's Included
  • Kayak, paddle, and lifejacket (PFD) provided
  • Equipped with a whistle or signaling device
Additional Information

Hello, my name is Scott. Along with Karissa, I co-own and operate Island Kayak Tours. Our excursion will lead you through the mangrove tunnels, provided the tide allows, and we tactically time your journey to maximize your chances of seeing dolphins and manatees. We also allocate free time for you to discover Shell Key Island, be it for shell collecting, swimming, snorkeling, or simply appreciating the scenery. Our tours transpire in a shallow marine preserve, devoid of alligators, where the water mostly ranges from knee to waist-deep, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned kayakers. My upbringing in St. Petersburg has endowed me with enough experience to design a unique kayak tour. Kayaking has consistently been a favored activity in the locality. Through this, I have discovered the choicest kayaking spots and accumulated local wisdom to provide you with an authentic Florida experience. I founded this kayak company to showcase the glorious natural wealth of my homeland.

Location
Pinellas Bayway South
We launch from a public launch site off Pinellas Bayway in Tierra Verde. Directions & a map will be included with your reservation confirmation message.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(150 Ratings)
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Escape770497
May 4, 2024
Very nice experience to discover this area - Great experience, kayaking through the mangroves and a visit to the gulf og Mexico, and added to that some levture about the area and it’s nature by Scott. All was done very professional yet very friendly, the equipment was good. An experience never to forget.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Richard
Apr 30, 2024
Great tour of Shell Key - Great way to explore the preserve. The guides were helpful and knowledgeable. We went at high tide and we were able to go through the mangrove tunnels. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jacqlene_r
Apr 27, 2024
Such an amazing experience - We truly enjoyed our day with Scott and Karissa. Very knowledgeable, friendly, and down-to-earth people. Scott gave great kayak pointers before we started our day to ensure a smooth experience. Gave interesting facts about the wildlife and environment of the mangroves. All in all worth the money and would definitely recommend it!!!
Review provided by Viator
Mlpoole
Apr 19, 2024
Local guy, great tour - Scott grew up in the area and shared a wealth of knowledge, experience and stories about the area and the wildlife. With a few Dad jokes mixed in. We saw dolphins, stingrays, bonnet head sharks, numerous fish species, osprey, pelicans and lots of friendly cormorants. Got a nice long break from the kayaks on Shell Island. Scott and Karrisa did an awesome job. We will be back. I would highly recommend them.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tiffanih2019
Apr 18, 2024
Family owned & Operated - Fantastic Tour A+ - This was my second trip out Kayaking with Island Kayak Tours and I have to say it was just as informative & amazing the second time around. I learned even more and the tour was different this go round. Scott is a wealth of knowledge and is always willing to share it. I love the stories and information shared throughout the tour. I will alway book with them when I come down to visit my friend in Saint Petersburg. Plus they are a family owned & operated business! A BIG plus in my book.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
R4504ncroses
Apr 17, 2024
First time kayakers! - It’s was absolutely fantastic and beautiful!! I’m a first time kayaker and can’t wait to kayak again!! Wonderful host and hostess!! Scott and Karissa were very informative and fun!! Thanks again Rose and Mark!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mhr9026xx
Apr 6, 2024
Great trip! - The tour was just as described on the website - a great trip on a beautiful day. The guides were helpful and informative with quality equipment. It was a nice break from the bustle of crowds everywhere else.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nsjessups
Apr 4, 2024
Must do kayak adventure with family - My family and I had an amazing kayak adventure with Scott and Chris. Scott was so knowledgeable about the area as he grew up in the area. The mangrove tunnels were amazing and stopping off Shell cove was perfect. We all had an incredible time and was the highlight of our vacation. Thank you again Scott and Chris
Review provided by Tripadvisor
G5551zfmelissam
Mar 22, 2024
Perfect mix! - Our family took this tour based on a recommendation. I will now be recommending it to others! It was great! Perfect mix between seeing the beautiful mangroves, to seeing Dolphins, birds, and fish along with a chance to explore, swim, and look for shells on the island. All of this with a great guided tour and history of the area. Scott and Karissa are wonderful.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lauraleey2024
Mar 21, 2024
Perfect way to spend an afternoon - Scott and Karissa were amazing tour guides. They gave us a personalized kayaking experience that matched the description. You won’t be disappointed with the overall experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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