Raccoon Island Exploration on SUP/Kayak

Exploring Raccoon Island on SUP or Kayak offers a unique chance to discover Miami’s waters and wildlife. Priced at $99 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this small-group tour is perfect for nature lovers and those eager to paddle in a peaceful environment. The tour departs from 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, with a maximum of 11 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. It’s especially popular, often booked 16 days in advance, which highlights its appeal.

What makes this excursion stand out is the combination of all equipment included, snacks and drinks, and the opportunity to see raccoons and wildlife up close. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both fun and informative. While the activity involves paddling, many reviews highlight how approachable it is, even for first-timers. This tour suits those interested in wildlife encounters, mangrove scenery, and small-group adventures.

Key Points

• Price is $99 per person for a 3-hour guided water adventure.
• Includes all equipment, plus snacks and alcoholic beverages.
• Small group size of up to 11 travelers ensures a customized experience.
• Departing from Miami Beach, the tour covers kayaking or SUP paddling to Sandspur (Raccoon) Island.
• Wildlife sightings include friendly raccoons, iguanas, and mango crabs.
• Excellent guides like CJ, Sean, and Elizabeth are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude.

Starting Point and Logistical Details

This tour begins at 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, with the meeting point straightforward for visitors staying nearby. The activity ends at the same location, making transportation simple and convenient. The tour is designed for most people to participate, with most travelers booking about two weeks in advance. The maximum group size of 11 ensures a cozy, engaging atmosphere.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind for changeable plans. The tour offers a mobile ticket, making check-in smooth and contactless.

The Route and What You Visit

After meeting your guide, you’ll start by paddling through mangroves in a kayak or SUP, which many describe as peaceful and breathtaking. The guides teach about the local ecosystem, including wildlife like tree crabs and iguanas.

The journey culminates at Sandspur Island, affectionately called Raccoon Island. Here, visitors experience close encounters with raccoons that are not shy about approaching. The raccoons are noted to be friendly and gentle, often accepting watermelon and grapes offered by visitors.

Some reviews mention the bushes and mangroves as part of the paddling route, with spectacular views and a tranquil paddling pace. The trip also includes swimming opportunities and plenty of chances to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Wildlife Encounters and Feeding Raccoons

The most memorable part of this tour is meeting the raccoons. According to reviews, the raccoons are curious and approach people directly. Guides provide watermelon and grapes to feed them, which many find delightful. The raccoons are not shy and seem used to human interaction, which provides excellent photo opportunities.

Beyond raccoons, guests often see iguanas and mango crabs along the way. Guides are praised for their ability to spot wildlife and share interesting facts about the animals and their environment.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

Guides like CJ, Sean, and Elizabeth receive high praise for their patience, professionalism, and wildlife knowledge. They explain the ecosystem, flora, and fauna clearly, making the experience both engaging and educational.

Reviews frequently mention that guides help beginners feel comfortable—especially those new to kayaking or SUP. Many appreciate guides who share fun facts and offer personalized attention, making the trip feel more like a friendly adventure than a typical tour.

Physical Activity and Pacing

The paddling route involves some effort, especially when crossing open water or paddling against wind, but it is described as manageable for most. The kayaking may require some muscle, but the return trip and paddling through mangroves are often highlighted as peaceful and scenic.

The tour’s pacing is flexible enough to accommodate first-time paddlers, with guides offering tips and encouragement. Guests have noted that even solo paddling is possible, with some taking about 20 minutes to reach Raccoon Island.

Snacks, Drinks, and Amenities

The tour’s food and beverage offerings are a key highlight. Guests receive watermelon, grapes, and water during the trip, which helps feed the raccoons and keep hydrated. Many reviews mention free alcohol, seltzers, and Gatorade, adding to the relaxed vibe.

The snacks and drinks are often described as generous and refreshing, enhancing the overall experience. The guides are attentive to providing hydration, especially after paddling.

The Experience with Wildlife and Nature

The wildlife sightings are a major draw. The friendly raccoons are the star attraction, often seen coming right up to visitors. Guests enjoy feeding them and capturing adorable photos.

The tour also features mangrove tunnels with crab spiders and various bird species, creating a diverse natural environment. The serenity of paddling through mangroves and the up-close encounters with wildlife make this trip memorable.

Paddling Challenges and Weather Considerations

While most reviews praise the experience, some mention that paddling against wind can be challenging, especially for those less experienced. It’s advisable to prepare for some physical effort.

The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather or if booked at least 24 hours in advance.

Customer Service and Overall Value

The small group size and guided approach ensure a personalized experience. Many reviewers highlight excellent guides like CJ, Sean, and Liam for their friendly attitude and knowledgeable explanations.

At $99, the tour provides great value with all equipment, snacks, drinks, and wildlife interactions included. The positive reviews and high recommendation rate (96%) indicate strong satisfaction among participants.

Raccoon Island SUP/Kayak Tour: Final Thoughts

This 3-hour adventure offers a relaxing yet engaging experience exploring the waters around Miami and meeting friendly raccoons. The all-inclusive setup and small-group setting create an intimate environment that appeals to nature enthusiasts and paddling newcomers alike.

While paddling may involve some effort, the guides’ expertise, wildlife sightings, and scenic mangrove waterways make this tour worthwhile for most. The quality of guides and wildlife encounters truly set this experience apart.

Suitable for most fitness levels, this tour is an excellent choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a peaceful, wildlife-rich excursion in Miami.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $99 fee covers all equipment, snacks, and alcoholic beverages such as seltzers and water.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including paddling, wildlife observation, and exploration of Raccoon Island.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most reviews highlight that guides explain paddling techniques clearly and assist beginners. The paddling route is manageable for most, though some effort may be required against wind.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. The pickup and drop-off are at the same location.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Guests frequently see friendly raccoons, iguanas, mango crabs, and birds. The raccoons are especially approachable and often come right to visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

How physically demanding is the paddling?
While paddling involves some effort, most participants find it manageable with guides providing tips and encouragement. The route offers both relaxing and more active sections.

Are drinks and snacks provided during the tour?
Absolutely. Guests enjoy watermelon, grapes, water, and free alcohol like seltzers, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it suits most ages and fitness levels, especially with the guides’ support. It’s a popular choice for families and couples.

What should I bring along?
Though not specified, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and waterproof gear are recommended, especially if you wish to feed the raccoons and take photos.