The warm, shallow waters and mangrove islands of Pine Island Sound are protected behind Captiva and Sanibel Islands. They offer a scenic and unequalled opportunity to see tropical flora and fauna in its natural state.

	Guided Tour of the Mangrove Ecosystem

Join a guided kayak tour or take off to explore on your own. Modern kayaks are safe, stable and comfortable - and easy to paddle: no experience needed. Learn about southwest Florida's unique plants, wildlife, geology and ancient peoples. Buck Key is an uninhabited island easily accessible from Captiva - only by kayak - with mangrove forests shading the winding aquatic trails and larger bays sheltered from wind. The J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge also has canoe and kayak trails including interior freshwater habitats. There are four other National Wildlife Refuges in the vicinity. These areas and others offer plenty of sights, sounds and smells to naturalists of all levels and ages.

Most photographs on this page courtesy Captiva Kayak Co. and Wildside Adventures, 239-EZ-KAYAK

A Perfect Place for Kayaking

The water is usually most calm in the early morning. Pine Island Sound behind Captiva is an ideal, sheltered area for kayaking, though breezes can pick up in the afternoon. Morning happens to be the best time to see most wildlife. Animals, birds, and fish are quite active and incredibly abundant, and the diffused light of early morning or late afternoon makes it easier to spot and photograph creatures.

	A Vacation to Remember

Ocean-going canoes are thought to have brought the first settlers to Hawaii. You might not want a voyage of that magnitude, but advanced boaters may wish to explore beyond the protected waters of Pine Island Sound. Ask your guides about interesting islands, keys, beaches, and other areas of interest. Obviously sailboats and powerboats have a greater range than kayaks and canoes. Enjoy the natural environment and wildlife, but do respect private property where applicable.

We highly recommend Captiva Kayak Co. and Wildside Adventures for single and tandem kayaks, canoes, and sailboats. Owners Greg LeBlanc and Barb Renneke not only rent the best craft made today (including leg-powered pedal kayaks), they are superb naturalists. They lead backbay ecology, marine science and natural history tours, memorable full-moon kayak excursions, and really know the area inside out: everything from Calusa (American Indian) archeaology, to locations and conditions for observing dolphin and manatee up close. Reservations are strongly suggested, so call Greg and Barb at 239-EZ-KAYAK (395-2925) or e-mail captivakayak@worldnet.att.net.

Shorter kids do well in the smaller crafts, but don't be fooled: they may paddle circles around the adults. These are some of the best kayak designs available, and carefully selected to fit the user's size and ability. This ensures a most enjoyable experience that you won't find elsewhere, and lets you concentrate on the wildlife and surroundings.

Experience Fascinating Ecosystems

An adventure for the wildlife naturalist as well as explorers of all types! There are "secret" trails and hidden coves in the mangrove forests that invite exploration in kayaks. No fear of getting lost... the danger is sunburn when the trail leaves the shade for the open water. Bring good sunblock, a hat and plenty of water for maximum enjoyment.

	Sunset Kayaking on the Gulf

However you spend your days at Captiva, we hope you make the most of your time and really enjoy yourselves. These kayakers returned to shore after admiring a mystically beautiful sunset from the quiet off-shore calm of the Gulf of Mexico. For several minutes they entertained a playful group of dolphins, making them the envy of shore-bound merrymakers. Perhaps next they went for a dip in the whirlpool spa or pool, then out to dinner at one of the great Captiva restaurants.

Exploring Mangrove Trails

These new kayaks are wonderful: comfortable, safe, and so easy to paddle and steer. They glide through the water, and steer easily with the foot-controlled rudder. No previous experience or skills are required... all levels of paddlers are accommodated. Basic instruction will be provided along with tips for using the craft and for viewing wildlife. Many people, from young to mature, say this is the most fun they have at Captiva.

	Aquatic Birds on a Sandbar

Sometimes aquatic birds can be observed from the shore. But to really see them in their natural environment, you can go where the birds are using a kayak. This collection includes pelicans, great egrets, and seagulls taking a leisure stop on a sand bar.

Can We Rent Two Doggie Paddles?

Does your dog need a little rest and relaxation (adventure) too? Perhaps as a reward for their service and loyalty, this canine pair gets to enjoy a kayaking trip with the boss. Hey! They don't even have to paddle.