- Most Popular!
Join a local biologist on a journey through the winding Mangrove Tunnels of Southwest Florida in search of unique wildlife as you explore oyster reefs, mudflats, and hidden bays.
Voted Southwest Florida's #1 Adventure!
Adventures
Explore the unique habitats, wildlife, and ecosystems of Southwest Florida with top rated kayak rentals or award-winning tours led by real local biologists and certified naturalists! Venture into wild Florida with the most qualified guides in the region and share in their passion for our local ecology and wildlife. Journey through winding mangrove tunnels, experience evening in the estuary at the famous bird rookery island or rent a kayak to explore on your own!
Reservations required for all tours and rentals
About Us
Not your average kayak tour
Rising Tide Explorers was founded in 2016 by a group of local biologists looking to raise the bar of the outdoor industry in Southwest Florida and share their passion for Florida’s unique ecological landscape. With advanced degrees and a diverse background of research experience we provide a fun, educational, and family-friendly adventures unlike any other! As the first and only biologist owned and operated ecotour company in Naples & Marco Island, we take pride in sharing our favorite things about the estuary and taking you and your family on the most unique adventures in the region!
With 100% of our guides being biologists, ecologists, and/or certified master naturalists, certified in First Aid, and ACA Certified Kayaking Instructors our goal is to give our explorers the option to choose a company they can trust to provide them with a safe, fun, and truly educational experience on the water. Want to make sure your guide is qualified, certified, accurate, and awesome to explore with?! Get out with Rising Tide and explore with the best!
Rated "Excellent" by Over 500 Visitors!
Return Explorer
"This is the second time I have done a tour with Rising Tide Explorers, and I learned even more about the area than I did the first time. Ryan is so knowledgable, professional and passionate about educating people, that you can't help but take away new knowledge about the waterways and wildlife of Collier County. I will definitely be taking more tours with Rising Tide Explorers, and will be bringing friends and family to enjoy this unique experience."
– TripAdvisor
Rookery Bay Sunset Tour
"This was a birthday gift for me and what a great one it was! I had a wonderful time. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about local flora and fauna and I was so grateful that he took pictures so we didn’t have to. It was an experience I’ll never forget and I hope to go on another adventure with them in the future!"
– TripAdvisor
We Saw Dolphins!
"Myself & my boyfriend are travelling from NZ and staying with my Aunt & Uncle in Florida, and my aunt organised us to go for a tour with Ryan who is super knowledgeable, we learnt heaps about birds & the ecosystem and had a good day paddling. It was super hot so take some water with you. We also saw dolphins which was so awesome!!!! Highlight of the morning. Loved it."
– TripAdvisor
Highly Recommend!!!
"Amazing experience. Guides, Ryan and Terry we great. Ryan is so knowledgeable and made this trip well worth it. So many Marine wildlife to see and touch. Would recommend this to anyone, experienced kayakers and non kayakers too. Good for everyone of all ages. Looking forward to the Sunset tour next time!"
– TripAdvisor
Awesome Adventure!
"My husband and I kayaked with our kids, ages 8 and 11. We had a wonderful time. Ryan and Terry were very friendly and knowledgeable, sharing facts about the rookery, and finding critters for the kids to hold. Being June it was HOT, so pack plenty of water and sunscreen. I highly recommend this experience, as it is extremely fun and engaging."
– TripAdvisorGet 5% off when you book online!
Enter code “EXPLORE” at checkout for 5% off online bookings. Free photography is included with every tour.