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Tours & experiences

Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour from Virginia Key

About this experience

Lamar Lake is Miami's #1 location for manatee sightings during the region's manatee season between November and April each year. Outside of manatee season there are a number of other wildlife sightings common on our tours including dolphins, spotted eagle rays, great blue herons and a plethora of other local flora and fauna.

The experience takes in Miami's unique mix of natural and urban scenes including, weather permitting, Downtown Miami's iconic skyline as seen from Biscayne Bay.

At a glance

  • Duration: 2 hr

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Single Kayak
Single Kayak: A kayak with a seat for a single paddler.
Tandem Kayak
Tandem Kayak: A kayak with seats for two paddlers.
Stand Up Paddle Board
Stand Up Paddle Board: A board with leash for a single paddler.

Plan your experience

Time on the tour2 hr
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 2 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What is included

  • Paddle board or kayak rental, paddles, US Coast Guard approved life jackets, and a waterproof bag for your phone/wallet/car keys
  • Paddle instruction and safety briefing
  • Licensed tour guide

Itinerary and highlights

Come join us as we explore Lamar Lake, Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic coast. During the Spring and Summer months enjoy the birds and aquatic sea life that proliferate in the area. Between November and April, large peaceful manatees migrate into Biscayne Bay making it highly likely to spot them while riding paddleboards and kayaks in the bay and it's surrounding waters.

Currents and wind permitting we can also paddle along the Atlantic Coast or paddle into the bay to see the picturesque Miami skyline -- the perfect mix of the city's urban and natural environments.

Each guided tour is lead by an experienced paddle expert, is up to two hours long and includes rental of a kayak or standup paddle board, paddles and safety equipment.

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Enter Virginia Key Beach park and follow signs for kayak and paddleboard rentals. There is adequate parking on site.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • PADL

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

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

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 2 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 0–17; Adult tickets: age 18+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Service animals allowed
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveller reviews and photos

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