About this Tour
Explore the living mangroves of the Florida Keys.
The Mangrove Eco-Tour departs from Sombrero Beach in Marathon and takes you on a 3.7-mile journey through some of the most pristine mangrove ecosystems in North America. You'll paddle beneath natural forest canopies and across peaceful saltwater ponds while learning the history, ecology, and wildlife of this protected stretch of the Florida Keys.
Your guide - Daniel "Dangrove" Lonergan - has spent thousands of hours on these waterways. He'll point out wildlife, share the history of the Keys, and tailor the pace to your group's comfort. Beginners and experts alike always leave with a new appreciation for one of Florida's most unique natural environments.
The tour operates 7 days a week and is scheduled around tidal conditions to ensure the best possible paddling experience. Tours run approximately 2.5 to 3 hours in total.
Tour Highlights
- Native mangrove island exploration
- Natural forest canopy paddling
- Saltwater pond navigation
- Florida Keys history & ecology
- Hands-on wildlife encounters
- 7 days a week departures
What's Included
- Fully equipped sit-on-top kayak
- Comfortable kayak seat & paddle
- Complimentary bottle of water
- Complimentary tour photos
- Guided paddle walkthrough before departure
- Expert historical and wildlife commentary throughout
What to Bring
- Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
- Water shoes or sandals
- Comfortable clothes you don't mind getting wet
- Sunglasses & a hat
- Waterproof phone case or camera
- Insect repellent (optional)
Wildlife
What you might see on the water.
The Florida Keys waterways are among the most biodiverse in North America. Every paddle is different.
Manatees
Known to graze in the shallow grass flats near mangrove edges - an unforgettable sight up close.
Dolphins
Bottlenose dolphins frequently follow kayakers through the channels of the Florida Keys.
Stingrays
Southern stingrays glide silently beneath crystal-clear water - visible right from your kayak.
Nurse Sharks
These gentle bottom-dwellers rest in shallow sandy patches, harmless and fascinating to observe.
Horseshoe Crabs
Ancient creatures that have roamed these waters for hundreds of millions of years.
Roseate Spoonbills
Striking pink birds that wade through the shallows hunting for small fish and crustaceans.
