About Our Tours

At Mike's Coastal Expeditions, our mission is clear: to provide the highest quality kayak and paddle board tours in Southwest Florida. Every decision we make—from the gear we use to the guides we hire—is rooted in a commitment to excellence, safety, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

What sets us apart is our top-tier equipment, unmatched by any other outfitter in the region. We use Hobie pedal-drive kayaks, available in both single and tandem configurations, offering hands-free navigation, superior stability, and a smooth ride that lets guests fully immerse themselves in nature. Our Crescent paddle kayaks are a premium alternative to standard models, featuring high-end seats and excellent tracking for a more comfortable, efficient paddle. Every guest receives a carbon fiber paddle, ensuring lightweight, high-performance control on the water.

We also offer clear tandem kayaks for a unique window into the marine life below, and stand-up paddle boards for guests who want to explore with a full-body perspective.

Led by expert local guides—Mike (the owner), Buzz, Nick, and Ethan—our tours take you deep into the untouched beauty of Big Hickory Island, Estero Bay, mangrove tunnels, and hidden inlets. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see manatees, dolphins, and a wide range of coastal birds in their natural habitat.

We proudly offer fully customizable private tours, perfect for corporate team building, family outings, and large group adventures of up to 100 guests. From daytime explorations to our signature Sunset Hobie Glow Tour, every experience is crafted to deliver maximum enjoyment and connection with nature.

At Mike's Coastal Expeditions, we don't just offer kayak tours—we deliver premium coastal adventures backed by the best equipment, the most knowledgeable guides, and a true passion for Florida's wild places.

Which Experience Is Best For You?

The Hobie Experience — Our Premium Kayak Tour

Hobie Manatee Tour

Ideal for anyone looking for a smooth, effortless trip, the Hobie Experience features pedal-powered Hobie kayaks that are perfect if you have upper body injuries or want a physically easier adventure. Because you use your legs to pedal, it's less tiring than traditional paddling, allowing you to relax, talk freely, and take photos easily while soaking in the stunning scenery.

These kayaks are intuitive and simple to learn, making them a favorite for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Plus, the Hobie kayaks cover more water, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds. They also come equipped with paddles that strap securely onto the kayak, so you're prepared to handle any situation. This tour is the premium choice for those who want the ultimate kayaking experience.

The Standard Kayak Tour — High Quality, Beginner Friendly

Crescent kayak with carbon fiber paddle

If you're looking for a fantastic kayaking adventure without the premium price, our Standard Tour is a perfect fit. We use top-quality Crescent kayaks, known in the industry for their durability, comfort, and excellent stability. These beginner-friendly kayaks feature cushioned seats that make paddling enjoyable and easy to learn.

All tours, including the Standard Tour, come equipped with carbon fiber paddles, complimentary photos, and bottled water to keep you refreshed. The Crescent kayaks offer excellent tracking and stability, making them ideal for first-time paddlers while still providing an enjoyable experience for more seasoned kayakers.

Clear Kayak Option — Unique Experience with Some Trade-offs

Clear kayak eco tour

For those interested in the clearest water views possible, we offer tandem Clear kayaks, which provide a transparent hull for a unique underwater perspective. These kayaks offer an unmatched view of the marine environment below, allowing you to spot fish, rays, and other underwater creatures that might otherwise go unnoticed.

However, these are our least high-end kayaks and come with some important considerations:

  • Seats: Clears have strap-on seats that are less comfortable compared to the cushioned seats on our Crescent kayaks.
  • Tandem Only: Clears are tandem kayaks only and cannot be used as singles.
  • No Keel: They lack a keel, which can make tracking and stability a bit more challenging.
  • Water Clarity: The quality of your underwater view depends heavily on conditions — ideal days have no wind, an incoming tide, and minimal sediment disturbance from prior days. On good days, visibility can reach up to 7 feet, but on poor days, it can be less than a foot.

At any time during your tour, if you prefer to switch from the Clears to a Standard kayak and space is available, we will gladly accommodate your request to ensure you have the best possible experience.

Paddle Board Experience — Great for a Higher Vantage Point

Friends enjoying SUP stand up paddle boards

For those who want a different perspective, we offer paddle boarding on Tahe 10-foot boards with a weight limit of 225 pounds. Paddle boards provide a fantastic vantage point for spotting wildlife and taking in the scenery from a higher angle. Standing on the board gives you a better view of what's in the water below and around you.

While they offer a unique experience, paddle boards lack the efficiency of kayaks due to the nature of paddling while standing or kneeling. Beginners are more than welcome to try them out but are encouraged to understand their own balance and paddling abilities before joining the tour. Our guides will provide instruction and tips to help you get comfortable on the board.

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