Tarpon Bay is a phenomenal area to paddle. Paddlers are able to experience the wild backwaters of the “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge while feeling comfortable navigating either an enclosed bay or a marked creek that twists and turns through a lush mangrove forest. Gazing out into the open waters of the bay, paddlers may witness bald eagles fly overhead or dolphins swim below their hull. Kayaking through Tarpon Bay is an experience one must check off their list whether you are a seasoned veteran or a first-time visitor to the islands.
Tarpon Bay Explorers is offering a variety of kayak tours every day throughout the holiday season (Closed Christmas Day). Kayak Trail Tours allow visitors to explore the inner workings of a mangrove forest. Low Tide Tours reveal shallow mudflats and seagrass beds where birds frantically forage for food. Sunset Rookery Paddles reveal Tarpon Bay’s beauty as the sun sets over the mangrove horizon and birds swoop into rookery islands for the night. Standup paddleboard tours are also regularly offered. With a bird’s eye view, paddlers can watch the seagrass sway while fish swim by. Hobie fishing kayaks are also available to rent. These boats are designed for enthusiastic and avid anglers.
To learn more about what paddling options Tarpon Bay Explorers has to offer, visit their website at www.tarponbayexplorers.com. If you would like to personally talk to a naturalist about their trips call the shop at 239-472-8900. Tarpon Bay Explorers is the concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The company offers a variety of eco-tours for the refuge and contributes 12% back to National Wildlife Refuges across the country.
