Why Kayak Near Naples?

Naples is synonymous with premium experiences — world-class dining, luxury shopping on Fifth Avenue, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. When it comes to kayaking, you deserve the same standard of excellence. Mike's Coastal Expeditions delivers a premium guided kayak experience that matches the Naples standard, just 25 minutes north in the pristine waters of Estero Bay.

While Naples Bay and the Gordon River offer kayaking options, the ecosystem at Big Hickory Island is fundamentally different — and in many ways, more spectacular. Estero Bay's sheltered mangrove tunnels, barrier island shorelines, and protected aquatic preserve create conditions for wildlife encounters that are rare in the more developed Naples waterways. Here, dolphin pods hunt in the shallows, manatees drift through seagrass beds, and roseate spoonbills wade along oyster bars untouched by boat traffic.

Our premium Hobie pedal-drive kayaks, carbon fiber paddles, expert local guides, and intimate group sizes create an experience that feels more like a private nature expedition than a typical kayak tour. For Naples residents and visitors accustomed to the best, this is the kayaking experience you've been looking for.

Your Adventure Awaits

Whether you choose our premium Hobie pedal-drive kayaks for an effortless, hands-free experience or our high-quality Crescent paddle kayaks, every tour includes expert local guides, carbon fiber paddles, complimentary photos, and bottled water — all with no booking fees.

Our tours wind through mangrove tunnels where manatees rest in shallow waters, along oyster bars where dolphins feed, and out to secluded barrier island beaches. You'll paddle through Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, one of Florida's first aquatic preserves, with a guide who knows every channel, every wildlife hotspot, and the best routes for the day's conditions.

We also offer sunset glow tours with LED-lit kayaks, clear kayak tours for underwater viewing, and stand-up paddle board options. Private and corporate group tours accommodate up to 100 guests.

Getting Here from Naples

Mike's Coastal Expeditions is approximately 25 minutes (20 miles) north of downtown Naples. Head north on US-41 (Tamiami Trail) through Bonita Springs and follow County Road 865 (Hickory Blvd) to our launch site at Big Hickory Island.

From the Naples Pier area or Fifth Avenue, take US-41 north — it's a straightforward drive with no highway needed. From North Naples or the Mercato area, you can also take I-75 North to Exit 116 (Bonita Beach Road) for a faster route. Free parking is available at our launch location.

Naples visitors often combine a morning kayak tour with an afternoon exploring the Naples Botanical Garden or strolling the shops and galleries on Third Street South.

Explore Naples & Kayak

Naples offers a wealth of activities to pair with your kayaking adventure. The Naples Botanical Garden, consistently rated one of the top botanical gardens in the country, features 170 acres of cultivated gardens representing tropical ecosystems from around the world. The historic Naples Pier is a must-visit for sunset views and dolphin watching from above.

Explore the charming shops and galleries along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, or visit the Artis-Naples cultural campus for the Baker Museum and Naples Philharmonic. For a more rustic experience, Tin City on the waterfront offers quirky shops and waterfront dining along Naples Bay.

Whether you're a Naples local looking for a new outdoor adventure or a visitor wanting to experience Southwest Florida's wild side beyond the manicured beaches, a guided kayak tour through Estero Bay's pristine mangroves delivers an experience that's both premium and authentically natural — exactly what Naples is all about.

Ready to Paddle?

Book your kayak adventure today — just 25 minutes from Naples with no booking fees.

Directions from Naples