Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Attractions & Things to do

Our industry leading small group tours have only 8 people max verses 15 people for your safety and enjoyment. Our kayaks are very stable, have a wide opening, are very comfortable and it covers the side of guests legs which helps in the tunnels when guests run into the branches. We have the earliest start time on our morning trip, a midday and a mid afternoon. Our guides have extensive kayaking guiding experience on both flat water and whitewater which for guest safety in these tidal areas. This is our 20th year with our kayaking company in southwest Florida and when you paddle with us it’s like visiting with good friends during the best time of the day. Minimum 2 people to book this tour.
Duration: 2 hours.

The Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour is the ultimate wildlife and nature adventure for families, nature lovers, and shelling enthusiasts. This guided boat tour takes you deep into the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, where you'll encounter playful dolphins, diverse bird species, and pristine, untouched beaches while learning about this unique coastal ecosystem from a knowledgeable captain.

This relaxing yet adventure-packed tour offers a perfect mix of exploration, education, and fun, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether you're seeking the best shelling spots, incredible wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful escape, this eco-tour is a must-do during your visit to Marco Island!

2.5 hours. Departs Goodland Boat Park 8:00am, 10:45am, 1:30pm, 4:15pm daily

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Join SWFL's only active local biologist guides for an adventure through the Rookery Bay Reserve at the start of the 10,000 islands on the #1 Kayaking Tour in the USA (USAToday)! Paddle to beautiful mangrove tunnels, teeming mudflats, and intricate oyster reefs while searching for amazing wildlife like sea stars, large snails, birds, dolphin and manatee! FREE HD PHOTOGRAPHY of you and your family exploring this beautiful area is provided on every adventure.

Single Kayaks are provided for all paddlers. For children under 12 contact us directly. Perfect for the first-time paddler and the pro. Get out and explore the calm backwaters of Southwest Florida with Naples and Marco Island's only biologist guides! Book your tour today! PLEASE ARRIVE 30 MINUTES BEFORE LAUNCH TIME.

Additional availabilities, tandem kayaks, children's tickets (under 12), boat tours, and additional kayak tours including sunset tours are available for reservation by phone or website only. Call to reserve!
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

The Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour is the ultimate wildlife and nature adventure for families, nature lovers, and shelling enthusiasts. This guided boat tour takes you deep into the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, where you'll encounter playful dolphins, diverse bird species, and pristine, untouched beaches while learning about this unique coastal ecosystem from a knowledgeable captain.

This relaxing yet adventure-packed tour offers a perfect mix of exploration, education, and fun, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether you're seeking the best shelling spots, incredible wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful escape, this eco-tour is a must-do during your visit to Marco Island!

2.5 hours. Departs Goodland Boat Park 8:00am, 10:45am, 1:30pm, 4:15pm daily
Duration: 2 hours 25 minutes.

Barrier Island Shelling Tour

The Barrier Island Shelling Tour is the ultimate shelling adventure for those looking to discover rare and beautiful seashells in untouched, remote locations. This guided boat tour takes you beyond the busy beaches to the best shelling hotspots in the Ten Thousand Islands, where you can collect sand dollars, alphabet cones, lightning whelks, and even the elusive Junonia.

2.5 hour tour departs Goodland Boat Park 8:00 am, 10:45 am, 1:30 pm, 4:15 pm daily

Family-Friendly Adventure:
A perfect activity for kids and adults alike, with plenty of time to explore and collect treasures from the sea.

This laid-back yet exciting tour is a dream for shell collectors and beachcombers. Whether you’re a seasoned sheller or a first-timer, our Barrier Island Shelling Tour will leave you with incredible finds and unforgettable memories of Marco Island’s pristine coastal beauty.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Barrier Island Shelling Tour

The Barrier Island Shelling Tour is the ultimate shelling adventure for those looking to discover rare and beautiful seashells in untouched, remote locations. This guided boat tour takes you beyond the busy beaches to the best shelling hotspots in the Ten Thousand Islands, where you can collect sand dollars, alphabet cones, lightning whelks, and even the elusive Junonia.

Family-Friendly Adventure:
Shelling is the perfect activity for kids and adults, with plenty of time to explore and collect treasures from the sea.

This laid-back yet exciting tour is a dream for shell collectors and beachcombers. Whether you’re a seasoned sheller or a first-timer, our Barrier Island Shelling Tour will leave you with incredible finds and unforgettable memories of Marco Island’s pristine coastal beauty.

2.5-hour tour departs Goodland Boat Park at 8:00 am, 10:45 am, 1:30 pm, and 4:15 pm daily

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

This is our "get your feet wet kayak tour." Almost all other Naples and Marco Island Tour companies offer this route. The main difference will be our certified year-round Adventure Paddle Tours guides and our pledge as a 1% for the Planet Member. Adventure Paddle Tours is a true Eco-tour company, providing safe and entertaining tours while also giving back to the local wildlife refuges and conservation areas. We are not a pop-up kayak outfitter like so many other recently new outfits. If you are looking for something more unique with a higher chance to spot wildlife check out our number one selling Manatees and Mangroves tour.
Duration: 2 hours.