Top 15 Tours & Things To Do In Naples

Naples isn’t just about white-sand beaches and luxury shopping—it’s a hub for outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and scenic boat rides that let you experience Florida’s natural beauty firsthand. Whether you’re into spotting dolphins, paddling through mangroves, or enjoying sunset sails, Naples offers a range of engaging activities that bring you closer to its stunning environment.

For example, the Dolphin and Shelling Cruise provides an intimate look at local marine life, while the Sunset Catamaran Sailing Excursion captures the magic of Floridian sunsets from the water. With so many options, you’ll find an activity suited for every interest and energy level.

Quick Overview

Naples boasts a wide variety of boat tours and wildlife excursions, perfect for nature lovers and families alike. From eco-kayaking in mangrove tunnels to small-group dolphin cruises, these experiences offer close-up wildlife viewing and scenic settings. For those seeking a more private experience, Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion stands out with its personalized approach.

If you prefer a more active outing, kayaking tours like the Mangrove Tunnels & Mudflats or Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak give you a chance to paddle through the thriving ecosystems. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each to help you choose the perfect outing.

1. Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling Tour

Starting at Goodland Boating Park, this 2-hour boat tour explores Florida’s gulf waters south of Naples. Led by a knowledgeable captain, you’ll learn about the Ten Thousand Islands and the mangrove ecosystems that sustain abundant wildlife. The tour’s highlights include shelling on remote beaches, wildlife sightings like dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees, and fantastic scenery.

Guests consistently praise the guide’s expertise and the beautiful views, with a typical comment: “Captain Colleen was incredible—so knowledgeable and friendly.” The tour is ideal for families or anyone wanting a relaxed, nature-focused outing without being on the water too long. For about $99, it offers great value with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and collect shells.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, fun introduction to local marine life and shelling, especially if you prefer a shorter, guided boat ride.

2. Dolphin and Shelling Cruise for up to 12 people

Departing from Marco Island, this small-group cruise takes about 2.5 hours to explore the Ten Thousand Islands. For $109 per person, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience in a small group of just 12 people, enhancing wildlife sightings and safety. The trip includes searching for dolphins, manatees, and seabirds, plus time to shell on an uninhabited barrier island.

Tour reviews love the personal attention, with one noting: “Captain Glenn was great! Dolphins playing in our wake was a highlight.” The tour is well-suited for all ages, and the morning or afternoon options provide flexibility. Expect a relaxed pace, good commentary, and plenty of wildlife encounters.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for families or small groups seeking an intimate, wildlife-rich experience with time for shelling.

3. Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour

This 3-hour kayak tour offers a peaceful paddle through the Everglades’ mangroves, with a focus on wildlife. Guided by a seasoned naturalist, you’ll navigate the mangrove tunnels, often spotting manatees, river otters, and numerous bird species. The tour’s small-group format (max 12) ensures plenty of attention from your guide, who shares insights about the ecosystem’s delicate balance.

Many guests appreciate the chance to get up close with nature—one reviewer said, “Justin was incredible—so knowledgeable about local habitats.” The tour costs $95 per person and is perfect for those wanting a active, educational outing that’s accessible to beginners yet rewarding for seasoned paddlers.

Bottom Line: A top pick for wildlife enthusiasts looking to explore Florida’s iconic mangroves in a quiet, personal setting.

4. Backwater Adventure’s CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands

For about $130, this 1.5 to 2.5-hour guided tour lets you explore the Ten Thousand Islands in a fun and unique way—on a CraigCat, a small, agile two-person boat. Led by a friendly guide, you’ll cruise through the wilderness, spotting dolphins, fish, and other wildlife. The small group format makes it feel like a private tour, and the boat’s open design offers excellent photo opportunities.

Many reviews note how easy and fun the CraigCats are to operate—”They didn’t take long to learn and were perfect for couples or solo travelers.” The tour is great for a relaxed, hands-on adventure without the crowds.

Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or adventurous travelers wanting a personalized, hands-on wildlife tour.

5. Mangrove Tunnels & Mudflats Kayak Tour – Local Biologist Guides

This 2.5-hour guided kayak tour for $69.99 takes you through Rookery Bay’s mangrove tunnels with a local biologist. It’s family-friendly and includes HD photography, making it good for capturing wildlife moments.

Paddle into the ecosystem of mudflats and oyster reefs, where you might see sea stars, dolphins, and large snails. The tour’s focus on education and wildlife makes it stand out, especially with guides who share expert knowledge.

One reviewer notes, “Justin was great—loved the experience and the wildlife sightings.” It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative paddle with plenty of wildlife viewing.

Bottom Line: A fantastic mix of education and adventure, especially for families or wildlife lovers wanting a more in-depth experience.

6. Guided Island EcoTour: CLEAR/Standard Kayak, SUP – Bonita Springs

At around $55, this 2.5-hour eco-tour in Bonita Springs is a budget-friendly choice. The tour features CLEAR kayaks, offering unobstructed views of the water and wildlife like dolphins and manatees. Guides like Elizabeth or Seth share insights into the local environment, and you’ll paddle through mangrove tunnels, explore beaches, and enjoy shelling.

Consistently rated highly, reviewers mention the professionalism of guides and the fun, educational experience. The tour is suitable for all skill levels and family groups.

Bottom Line: Excellent value for those seeking a guided, educational paddle in a scenic setting.

7. Sightseeing and Sunset Catamaran Sailing Excursion

This 2.5-hour sailing trip on the catamaran “Cool Beans” offers a relaxing way to see Naples by water. For $70, you can choose a daytime or sunset cruise, with the latter providing spectacular views of the Florida sunset. The boat often spots dolphins, birds, and mangroves, with some trips including stops for shelling and swimming.

Many travelers praise the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to photograph wildlife in a serene setting—one review mentions, “Sunset views and dolphin sightings made this a highlight of our trip.” It’s perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a peaceful, scenic experience.

Bottom Line: A great option to unwind and enjoy Naples’ coastal beauty, especially at sunset.

8. Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour

This 2-hour tour from Marco Island costs $99 and guarantees dolphin sightings. Led by a captain-guide, you’ll explore the Ten Thousand Islands, with commentary on the ecosystem and birdlife. Past guests highlight the expertise of guides Marco and Elliott, and dolphins are so prevalent the tour states they guarantee seeing them.

Many reviews praise the lively wildlife encounters and the chance to learn about the area’s environment. It’s excellent for travelers who want a quick, engaging dolphin-focused adventure with good narration.

Bottom Line: An efficient, wildlife-rich boat tour ideal for families and first-time visitors.

9. Marco Island 2-hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling tour

This small-group tour costs $99.95 and combines dolphin watching, birding, and shelling in the Ten Thousand Islands. Led by a naturalist guide, you’ll explore wildlife like pelicans, spoonbills, and sea turtles, and then walk on a remote island to collect shells. Guests love the personalized experience and the chance to see a wide range of animals.

One reviewer says, “We saw dolphins, manatees, and a lot of birds—all in a relaxing two hours.” It’s a good fit for families or travelers wanting a mix of wildlife and shelling.

Bottom Line: Versatile, educational, and suitable for all ages, this tour offers a well-rounded nature experience.

10. Avi’s Premium Dolphin Tour by Jet Ski

For about $295 per group, this jet ski adventure offers a high-energy way to explore the Gulf of Mexico and the Ten Thousand Islands. Led by a guide, you’ll ride through mangroves, searching for dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Each jet ski holds two riders, making it perfect for friends or couples.

Reviews highlight how easy the jet skis are to operate, with one noting, “Got a little wet, but it was a blast.” It’s best for adventurous travelers comfortable on watercraft and seeking a thrill.

Bottom Line: A top pick for thrill-seekers wanting an active, wildlife-focused ride on the water.

11. Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour of the Everglades

This 3-hour tour at $149 offers an intimate look at Everglades’ wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll pass by Smallwood’s Store and visit a remote island. The small-group format ensures you get a closer, more personal experience.

One reviewer said, “Captain Josh was wonderful—dolphins, birds, and so much wildlife.” It’s ideal for families and nature enthusiasts who want a relaxed, informative ride with chances to see various species.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, wildlife-focused eco-tour with personalized attention.

12. 3 Hour Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour

Offering a 3-hour paddle for $99.95, this eco tour takes you through Florida’s largest mangrove forests. Guided by an experienced naturalist, you’ll explore narrow tunnels and observe birds, crabs, and possibly dolphins. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Many guests appreciate the diversity of scenery and wildlife, with one reviewer noting, “The mangrove tunnels were beautiful, and the guide was very knowledgeable.” The tour is fit for families or anyone seeking a peaceful, nature-filled adventure.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for nature lovers wanting to see the flora and fauna of the mangroves up close.

13. Clear Kayak Guided Eco Tour in North Naples

At $84, this 2.5-hour guided tour in North Naples features clear kayaks for unobstructed wildlife viewing. The tour includes dolphins, manatees, and coastal scenery around Wiggins Pass. Guides share insights and take photos, making it a family-friendly and educational outing.

Reviewers praise the calm waters, wildlife sightings, and guide’s knowledge, with one saying, “Sean was fantastic—making the experience both fun and informative.” It’s suitable for all skill levels, especially those who want a relaxed yet immersive experience.

Bottom Line: A scenic, educational paddle perfect for families or anyone wanting easy access to wildlife.

14. Guided Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in Rookery Bay Reserve

For $75, this 2-hour guided kayak tour explores the Rookery Bay mangroves, with a focus on birding and marine life. Led by a naturalist, you’ll paddle around mangrove tunnels and look for dolphins, herons, and other wildlife.

Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and personable the guides are, with one saying, “Jessica was funny and full of knowledge.” It’s suitable for beginners and those wanting a relaxed, educational experience emphasizing nature observation.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and beginners who want a peaceful, knowledgeable tour.

15. Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion

This luxurious private tour costs $475 for up to six people. It combines shelling on remote islands with dolphin sightings on the boat ride through the Ten Thousand Islands. The customizable itinerary and exclusive access set this apart.

Guests love the personalized service, with reviews mentioning, “Captain Kasey went out of his way to find shells and dolphins.” It’s best suited for families or groups seeking a tailored, private adventure with plenty of flexibility.

Bottom Line: The ultimate choice for privacy, personalized service, and a relaxed pace—perfect for special occasions or private family outings.

How to Choose

When selecting your tour in Naples, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If wildlife viewing is your top priority and you prefer a guided group experience, options like the Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour or the Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour are excellent choices.

For a more active adventure, kayaking tours like the Mangrove Tunnels & Mudflats or the Green Kayak Guided Eco Tour are perfect.

If you’re traveling with family or want a more personalized experience, the Private Shelling & Dolphin Excursion offers privacy and flexibility, whereas the sunset cruises are ideal for a romantic or relaxing outing.

Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for your preferred dates. Consider your activity level—kayaking and jet skiing require more physical effort, while boat tours and sailing trips are more laid-back.

In summary, Naples offers a rich selection of wildlife excursions, scenic boat rides, and active paddling adventures. From the intimate Dolphin and Shelling Cruise to the adventurous Jet Ski Dolphin Tour, there’s something for every traveler eager to explore Florida’s beautiful waters.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing sunset sail or an educational kayak trip, these tours promise memorable experiences and plenty of opportunities to see the area’s abundant wildlife. Be sure to book early, and enjoy your time in Naples—the Gulf Coast’s natural playground.