Kayak Tours
Paddle the backwaters of the Indian River Lagoon on our 2- hour Guided Kayak EcoTours. Join one of our certified Florida naturalists for a fascinating exploration through mangroves, salt marshes, oyster reefs and more. We offer tours from two locations as well as full moon tours. Basic kayak instruction and nature interpretation are included with each tour, as well as all necessary equipment. These tours are designed for all levels of paddlers with no experience required.
You can book in person, online, or over the phone at 386.428.4828; reservations for kayak tours are required at least a day in advance. Please check our online calendar to confirm dates/times as schedules are subject to change.
All tours are weather permitting. Minimum of 2 guests required for kayak tours to commence unless otherwise noted. Marine Discovery Staff will be in touch in the event the minimum number of guests is not met. Guests can reschedule or request a refund.
MDC Members receive a 10 percent discount on most tours. You must call to receive this discount.
All kayak participants must wear closed-toe shoes.
Participants are advised to bring water, sun protection (sunscreen, hat), bug spray, and a camera if desired.
Daily Kayak EcoTours
2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour
Tu, Th, Sa & Su at 9:15 a.m. through August (returns to 10 a.m. in September)
Adults: $50 | Children 6-12: $32, must be in a tandem kayak with an adult
Your Own Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard: $32
Paddle through our salt marsh and out into the backwaters of the Lagoon while scanning the water for dolphins and manatees, watching the shorelines and the skies for a variety of birds and learning about the distinctive salt-water plant life that thrives in the lagoon. Paddling a kayak offers a gentle way to view wildlife up close and to learn about the importance of an estuary.
2-Hour Indian River Lagoon Preserve Guided Kayak Eco Tour
M, W, & F at 9:15 a.m. through August (returns to 10 a.m. in September)
Adults: $50 | Children 6-12: $32, must be in a tandem kayak with an adult
Your Own Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard: $32
Paddle out of Indian River Lagoon Preserve Park and experience the beauty of Browns Bay. Dolphins are a common sight, and the mangrove shorelines are alive with a multitude of birds, invertebrates, and more!
These tours depart from Indian River Lagoon Preserve Park, located beachside in New Smyrna Beach off Saxon Avenue, 700 Sandpiper St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.
Specialty Kayak EcoTours
Full Moon Kayak Tour
Monthly during the Full Moon
Adults: $50 | Children 6-12: $32, must be in a tandem kayak with an adult
Your Own Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard: $32
These tours coincide with full moons and give participants the opportunity to paddle our local waters as the sun sinks below the mangrove trees and moonlight fills the sky. Guests may climb the observation mound adjacent to the MDC kayak launch for a better view of the rising moon. Full Moon Boat Tours are offered on the same days/times.
Forever Explorers Kayak Excursion
Monthly – click the booking link below to see current offerings!
MDC Members: $50 | Non-Members: $55
Forever Explorers is designed for young-at-heart, lifelong learners and is geared to offer outdoor opportunities for adults who want to explore and better understand their surrounding coastal environment alongside certified naturalists and scientists! During our Forever Explorers kayak excursions, participants will paddle the lagoon to explore salt marshes, mudflats, and spoil islands. A snack is included. Beginners are welcome, and you can choose single or tandem kayaks. This tour is open only to participants 18+.
Our Forever Explorers program also includes boat excursions, land-based programs, and conservation workshops. Click here to learn more about Forever Explorers
Our Mission:
"To protect our coastal ecosystems through education, conservation, and exploration"