St. Augustine, Florida, isn’t just about cobblestone streets and colonial landmarks—it’s also a fantastic spot for canoe and kayak adventures that put you right on the water. Whether you’re paddling through calm estuaries or cruising along historic coastlines, these experiences showcase the area’s rich marine life and scenic beauty.
We particularly like the Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour for its relaxed pace and wildlife sightings, and the Wildlife Adventure Boat & Kayak Tour for its combination of cruising, paddling, and socializing. Both tours offer a chance to see dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife, making them ideal for nature lovers.
Interested? You can explore these options further at St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour and St. Augustine Wildlife Adventure: Boat Cruise & Kayak Tour.
Quick Overview
This list covers two top-rated kayak and canoe experiences in St. Augustine. The first involves a guided wildlife paddle where you might spot dolphins and manatees, perfect for all skill levels.
The second combines boat cruising with kayaking along the scenic coast of Anastasia Island, with the added bonus of snacks and drinks. Both tours offer a mix of adventure and relaxation, with options suited for different preferences and budgets.
1. St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour
Starting at $65 per person for 2 hours of guided paddling, this tour is a standout for wildlife enthusiasts. It includes options for stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking and takes place on the calm waters near Anastasia State Park.
The tour is praised for its ability to produce consistent sightings of dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat, which makes it a hit among travelers seeking a close encounter with marine life.
The guide’s knowledge about local ecosystems enriches the experience, and the short duration means you can fit it into a busy day.
What makes this tour special is its accessibility—it’s tailored for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned paddlers. The waters here are gentle, and the focus is on wildlife viewing rather than intense exertion. Paddling past the sand dunes of Anastasia State Park adds a scenic backdrop to your wildlife quest, and you might also see sea turtles and crabs along the way.
Bottom Line: If spotting dolphins and manatees in a relaxed, guided setting sounds appealing, this tour offers excellent value and an engaging way to connect with St. Augustine’s waters.
2. St. Augustine Wildlife Adventure: Boat Cruise & Kayak Tour
For around $45, this 2-hour tour combines a scenic boat cruise with guided kayaking. What sets it apart is the mix of land and water exploration, offering the chance to see a variety of historic landmarks along the Intracoastal Waterway while also paddling along the coast of Anastasia Island.
The boat cruise provides a comfortable vantage point to appreciate the area’s historic architecture and natural beauty, with some guests noting how close the dolphins and manatees come during the tour.
The kayaking portion is led by expert guides who help you spot a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and numerous bird species.
The tour is ideal for those wanting a bit of everything—scenic cruising, wildlife watching, and light paddling—plus you get to enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, including beer and wine (for those 21+). Reviews highlight the friendly staff and the balance of adventure with relaxation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a social, multi-faceted outing combining boat sightseeing and kayaking, with the added bonus of refreshments.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two top options, consider your interests and what kind of experience you want. If wildlife viewing in calm waters with easy paddling is your goal, the Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour is a great fit. It’s also more budget-friendly and ideal for all ages and skill levels.
On the other hand, if you prefer a scenic cruise with a bit of paddling and enjoy socializing over snacks and drinks, the Wildlife Adventure Boat & Kayak Tour offers a more varied day with comfortable boat views and active paddling along Anastasia Island.
Both tours are popular, so booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level—if you’re new to paddling, the first tour’s gentle waters might be less intimidating. For a more relaxed experience with a social aspect, the boat/kayak combo is hard to beat.
In summary, St. Augustine provides excellent canoe and kayak experiences that suit different preferences. The wildlife-focused paddle tour offers a peaceful way to observe marine creatures up close, while the combined boat and kayak tour give a broader scenic and social experience.
For wildlife lovers or those seeking a scenic water adventure, either choice will enhance your visit to this historic city. Booking early is recommended to secure your spot—these tours fill up quickly, especially in busy months.