Kayak Adventure Of Shell Key Preserve & Island With A Local

Scott and Karissa were excellent. They were both very helpful and knowledgeable about the area and wildlife in that area. The route was great and they both made sure we were all comfortable. We have been on other kayaking tours and this was the best one yet.

Scott and Carissa were great! They were super knowledgeable and friendly, the equipment was all in great shape. Great for groups or as a solo traveler!

Went out with Scott and Carissa for the second time and it was just as great as when we went two years ago. I learn something new every time we have been with them. History of the area, information about the wildlife and plants. And great childhood stories growing up in the area. We even got to see a couple of manatee. They do an amazing job guiding, teaching and keeping you safe. We would highly recommend them, and this trip, regardless of your paddling experience. We will be back.

Beautiful break from the wind which made other tours impossible. The area is peaceful, clean, relaxing, and the guides were great.

BEST THING EVER.....It felt like we were kayaking with friends...Scott and his wife were so knowledgable and kind.....it was 100/100! Great value, memories to last a lifetime and we learned so many cool things. Never felt like a tourist on this trip, nor did I have a moment of worry. We were in great hands and our entire group has talked about it non-stop. Thank you Scott and Carissa for a magical experience!!!

Amazing experience. The guides were fantastic. Engaging and very knowledgeable Weather was just perfect for the few hours. The group was mixed ability and we were all able to go at our own pace. We saw dolphins, cormorants and other birds, a the mangroves were so pretty. The time on shell key was lovely. You can walk around or just chill on the stunning beach and swim. One of the best experiences I’ve done in a long time. Would do again and would 100% recommend.

From booking to the end, this experience was fantastic. We had a booking for a morning tour, but winds got strong so the tour was canceled and we were contacted promptly with several options for rebooking. We took an afternoon tour instead. Scott was a great guide with lots of info and stories about the area, nature, and wildlife. On our particular tour, the group spotted a dolphin, and also a cormorant that had been snared by a fishhook (apparent by the attached bobber and the bird’s struggle). Scott was able to bring the bird into his kayak and free it from its impediment before releasing it back to freedom. It was quite an experience to witness. Scott and Karissa’s reverence for the habitat was obvious and they enjoy sharing it with guests. The time on Shell Key was great too - shell bags were provided to help with collecting, and you can enjoy a beach mostly unpopulated by anything but seabirds and other wildlife. If you are even considering this tour, do it. The price is very reasonable, you don’t need to be in shape or athletic to do it, and seriously, the water is shallow everywhere so if you are not a swimmer, put your worries aside and enjoy the water.

Scott and team were excellent teachers of the native wild life and mangroves. I have been on a shell key tour before and this one blew it out of the water. Mangrove tunnels were the best!

This was our third time booking with Island Kayak Tours, and it just keeps getting better! Scott and Karissa are wonderful guides. We saw a dolphin surface near our kayaks and loved shelling. We can't wait to book our next tour!

Karisa and Scott are an amazing team and very knowledgeable of the eco system. That is why we have gone with them several times in the last 10 years. We relaxed while kayaking and enjoying each other and the outdoors. There were 16 of us this trip - our whole family with 8 grandkids ranging from 17 to 4. Have never been disappointed yet. Did the Sunset Cruise this time and it was a spectacular setting. Loved every minute of it.

Great family time. Kayaked 4 miles. 2 out. 2 in. Scott was very informative. Great information about the area. Mangrove canopy was neat to see. The shelling was the best. Lots of beautiful shells. We got to see spider crabs in there water too!

We had a wonderful trip with Scott and Karissa. They are very knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife and showed us a lot while we kayaked across to shell ley island, including some great mangrove tunnels. They were always mindful of the entire group and made sure everybody had a good experience. The pace was suited for beginners. We highly recommend it and if we are ever in the area again, we will definitely book this kayak adventure again.

This was our 2nd time using island kayak tours. Scott & Karissa do a great job of making the trip a lot of fun, not just another kayak tour. Highly recommend this guys, you will not regret it and have a great time!

This was a great time and Scott really know how to find dolphins and other sea creatures during out trip. The mangroves were so cool and we loved shell Key. It was a trip we plan on doing again and have told all our friends and family about. A trip worth taking!!

Very entertaining and knowledgeable guides local couple provides phenomenal experience, exploring local natural habitat

Due to traffic and an accident we were running behind and this tour company worked with us to allow us to join the later kayaking outing. We throughly enjoyed the time we had kayaking and learning about the creatures that live in the area. The shell island was a highlight for all of us too! We found beautiful shells and loved taking in the beauty of the waves crashing. Our guides were accommodating and really educated us about so many things. Highly recommend!

We had an amazing time on the tour! We had the most perfect weather and were able to see lots of wildlife, including some dolphins and spider crabs. The mangrove tunnels were interesting - it was nice to grab a quick break from the sun and some pictures, plus hear some of Scottie’s stories from his childhood. It was a nice workout and I’m glad that my husband and I decided to share a tandem kayak so we could easily take breaks and help each other out. We highly recommend the tour and hope to make it back someday!- Jay and Stefanie

Absolutely amazing...all the personal stories were great. I would highly recommend to anyone! Easy paddle and great company!

Kayaking with Scott & Karissa was the absolute highlight of our trip! They were super friendly and really made sure we felt comfortable and safe the entire time. I loved learning more about the local waters and wildlife. Being out in the water was just amazing! I am so glad we booked this, we really couldn’t have asked for a better experience. If you’re on the fence on which kayak tour to do, definitely go with Island Kayak Tours!!

Scott is a true local and the best person to explore the Shell Preserve with. He knows the beaches, mangroves, and fauna like the back of his hand and can tell you all about the history and his childhood experiences in a way that is genuinely engaging. The water is comparably nicer (cleaner/clearer) on the west coast of Florida compared to Tampa (still nice). The kayaking itself was great. Despite damage from the hurricanes, there were still mangroves tunnels to explore. He gives great instruction and the pace is good whether you're experienced or a beginner. In these crazy times in the world, I felt grounded and peaceful for the first time in awhile. Pure fun and enjoyment.

Everything was amazing! We enjoyed every bit of it. Thank you Scott and Chris for a great afternoon and experience! Hope to be back again next year!

One of the best, if not THE best, tour we have ever been on. Scott and his wife were fantastic guides! Cormorants dove under the kayaks as we paddled, while a mama dolphin and her baby played close by. How could it get better?

What a great morning! The tour was excellent and Scott and Karissa were so helpful and knowledgeable. We were not experienced kayakers but loved it and would definitely go again. Highly recommend:)

It was a very pleasant experience in a beautiful area of Florida. Scott was very informative and accommodating to all ages and all levels kayaking skills. Having engaged in three, Florida kayaking experiences in February 2025, this was the best experience by far. We highly recommend it!

Get ready for the most incredible paddling adventure of your life! Every time I visit my best friend in Saint Petersburg, I make it a priority to book a kayaking trip with this amazing crew. Scott, who was born and raised on the waters around Fort De Soto, is an absolute wealth of knowledge—seriously, ask him anything, and he’ll have an answer! This isn’t just an unforgettable paddle; it’s like taking a fascinating, hands-on class about the area. I learn something new every single time I go! If you’re looking for an adventure that’s both thrilling and educational, I can’t recommend this experience enough!

The water was nice and calm and not too cold. The guide was fantastic and had a lot of knowledge about the area and the waterways. It was 4 miles total but didn't feel like it. My 10 y/o granddaughter had no problem completing it.

You get way more than your money's worth on this tour. The guides are great, the shells on the key were plentiful and we had ages 13 to 77 out kayaking with no issue. Would 100% recommend Scott and Karissa (and we've done other kayaking tours in the area to compare.) We'll be back for more next visit!

Island Kayak Tours with guides Scott and Karissa is an unforgettable adventure! Scott and Karissa are exceptional guides who blend professionalism with a warm, friendly approach that instantly puts you at ease. Their knowledge of the local waters, wildlife, and hidden gems adds incredible depth to the experience, making it as educational as it is exhilarating. From breathtaking views to perfectly planned routes, every moment feels thoughtfully curated. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, Scott and Karissa ensure you feel confident and cared for. This is more than a tour; it’s a truly magical journey! Highly recommend!

Scott was awesome!! What a great kayak tour. Our 4, 14, 17, and 18 y/o all really enjoyed it. No prior skill needed. What a blast! Would definitely use them again!! Trip was 3 hrs - 1hr to the island, 1hr on the beach, and 1hr on the way back. Don't forget your hat, water, and sunscreen!!

Had an amazing time with Karissa and her husband. He is a wealth of knowledge and both are so nice. We kayaked in shallow water then through mangroves and then got to go in the water at Shell Beach. Founds lots of sand dollars. It was the perfect amount of time paddling and relaxation! Loved the birds swimming along side us and putting on show catching fish! Highly recommend.

Very nice experience and our family enjoyed it so much! We were very lucky that we saw manatees as well. Highly recommend the trip!

I'm a fan of kayak tours and have done quite a few along the east coast, including through mangroves. Scott was easily the best tour guide I've ever had! Gave great easy to follow instructions for new kayakers, incredibly personable and friendly, immediately memorized the names of everyone on the group, and shared really interesting local history and facts on all of the animals, fish, plants, etc. that we saw throughout the trip. He was just extremely engaging and helpful. Karissa brought up the rear, making sure everyone was doing ok and no one left behind. One of the coolest parts was the cormorant birds hanging with the group so they could dive for the fish we were stirring up by kayaking. We watched them catch so many fish! Shell Key, as the name implies, is filthy with beautiful shells! I could have stayed there all day. Scott and Karissa had shell bags you could borrow, but we had brought our own plus snorkels, which was a good move.

This was a fabulous tour. The guides were very knowledgeable and we could hear them no matter where we were in the group. Navigating through the mangrove tunnels was a highlight. 💯 recommend this tour if you’re visiting the area.

Island Kayak Tours offers the best kayaking experience in the Tampa Bay Area. Scott and Karissa, the guides, are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the area. Scott, who grew up exploring these waters, shares fascinating details about the local ecosystem and the mangroves. This was my second time on this tour, and each experience has been exceptional. Kayaking through the mangroves and visiting Shell Key Island for some relaxing beach time is simply amazing. I highly recommend this tour to everyone; the beauty of the surroundings and the expertise of the guides make it unforgettable. If you're considering booking, just do it

Scott and Karissa were amazing guides. They are patient, kind, full of knowledge & understanding. Our original trip needed to be postponed due to higher than normal winds, which would’ve made our excursion harder and longer. They called ahead of time and we rescheduled before flying back home. They are also very accommodating if someone gets tired and can’t completely paddle back. Our 13 yr needed a tow just about 1/4 mi out from finishing. We would book with them again in a heartbeat! Thank you for a wonderful time!

We all had a wonderful time! They were right there waiting, informative and extremely knowledgeable. Never rushed, nice shell key break and personable! The pricing was fair and I would definitely recommend!

We had a great time with Scott & Karissa, owners of the Island Kayak Tours. They are really really nice people and will take care of everyone. They made sure all are safe while enjoying the kayaking and seeing all the wild animals. Scott has A LOT of energy and story to share. Our kids had a great time! and we loved exploring the area plus the white sandy Shell Beach. It was a wonderful morning and a perfect weather. Just be there 15-20 mins before the call time so you can prepare and hear the instructions. we HIGHLY recommend this and will love doing again if we will be in the area. Thank you very much especially to Ms. Karissa for all the help when we had hard time navigating our kayak with our kid. It was easy to do but we badly need team work :D

Kayaking through the mangroves and spending time on Shell Island was awesome. Scott is very knowledgeable of the area!

Great experience, kayaking through the mangroves and a visit to the gulf og Mexico, and added to that some levture about the area and it’s nature by Scott. All was done very professional yet very friendly, the equipment was good. An experience never to forget.

Great way to explore the preserve. The guides were helpful and knowledgeable. We went at high tide and we were able to go through the mangrove tunnels. Highly recommended!

We truly enjoyed our day with Scott and Karissa. Very knowledgeable, friendly, and down-to-earth people. Scott gave great kayak pointers before we started our day to ensure a smooth experience. Gave interesting facts about the wildlife and environment of the mangroves. All in all worth the money and would definitely recommend it!!!

Scott grew up in the area and shared a wealth of knowledge, experience and stories about the area and the wildlife. With a few Dad jokes mixed in. We saw dolphins, stingrays, bonnet head sharks, numerous fish species, osprey, pelicans and lots of friendly cormorants. Got a nice long break from the kayaks on Shell Island. Scott and Karrisa did an awesome job. We will be back. I would highly recommend them.

This was my second trip out Kayaking with Island Kayak Tours and I have to say it was just as informative & amazing the second time around. I learned even more and the tour was different this go round. Scott is a wealth of knowledge and is always willing to share it. I love the stories and information shared throughout the tour. I will alway book with them when I come down to visit my friend in Saint Petersburg. Plus they are a family owned & operated business! A BIG plus in my book.

It’s was absolutely fantastic and beautiful!! I’m a first time kayaker and can’t wait to kayak again!! Wonderful host and hostess!! Scott and Karissa were very informative and fun!! Thanks again Rose and Mark!

The tour was just as described on the website - a great trip on a beautiful day. The guides were helpful and informative with quality equipment. It was a nice break from the bustle of crowds everywhere else.

My family and I had an amazing kayak adventure with Scott and Chris. Scott was so knowledgeable about the area as he grew up in the area. The mangrove tunnels were amazing and stopping off Shell cove was perfect. We all had an incredible time and was the highlight of our vacation. Thank you again Scott and Chris

Our family took this tour based on a recommendation. I will now be recommending it to others! It was great! Perfect mix between seeing the beautiful mangroves, to seeing Dolphins, birds, and fish along with a chance to explore, swim, and look for shells on the island. All of this with a great guided tour and history of the area. Scott and Karissa are wonderful.

Scott and Karissa were amazing tour guides. They gave us a personalized kayaking experience that matched the description. You won’t be disappointed with the overall experience.

It was an awesome time! The guides were very knowledgeable of the area and the marine life surrounding us. They were very conscientious and helpful with everyone on the tour. We would definitely take this tour again!