Tarpon Bay Explorers is happy to announce that they will be expanding their days of
operation around the upcoming holiday season. The concessionaire of the J.N. “Ding” Darling
National Wildlife Refuge will be open everyday, but Christmas, from Friday December 20th until
Saturday January 4th. “We always anticipate a bump in business around the holidays and we
are hoping that with an already cold and snowy start to the winter season up north we’ll see
good visitation to the island,” said General Manager Adam Sauerland. The Explorers will be
offering Kayak Tours every day, multiple times a day. Times are subject to vary as they are
dictated by tide levels. Tram Tours will also be in operation on Tuesdays, Thursdays and
Saturdays at 10am & 1pm. Bike rentals are also available and are the closest rentals for those
who want to explore Wildlife Drive at their own pace.
Tarpon Bay Explorers is the one and only concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National
Wildlife Refuge. The company offers educational eco-tours and also provides rentals to explore
the Refuge. Tarpon Bay Explorers offers kayak and bike rentals on a first come, first serve basis
starting at 8am and stops rentals at 3pm. The concession also has Hobie fishing kayaks for rent
for half or full days and reservations are recommended. Reservations are also recommended
for any guided tour. Reservations can be made by calling the gift shop at 239-472-8900 or
through their website at www.tarponbayexploreres.com. The gift shop at Tarpon Bay is also a
highlight as it is nature-themed and has one of the best views on the island!