USA · CANOES & KAYAKS
Black Canyon under the Hoover Dam, the mangrove tunnels in Florida, glass boats over the flats. These 15 are compared on distance paddled, how much instruction you get and what each one costs.
Paddle a clear kayak through Shell Key Preserve, spot dolphins and birds, explore mangroves, and search for shells on a Florida sandbar.
“Jenna was truly fantastic. Great learning experience about local wildlife and the area. Would highly recommend.”
Paddle four calm miles through Black Canyon to Emerald Cave, with snacks, swimming, safety gear, and optional Las Vegas hotel pickup.
“The company River dogs was very easy to work with. After looking at the weather, they allowed us to change our day at the last minute. Preston was an excellent guide.”
Paddle five miles through Black Canyon to Emerald Cave, with beginner-friendly instruction, snacks, water, and optional Las Vegas shuttle service.
“The cave is not that deep, but the water is amazing - emerald green. Beautiful trip and a leisurely kayaking tour.”
Paddle a clear kayak through Rock Springs Run’s Emerald Cut, with spring swimming, tree cover, local guides, and chances to spot Florida wildlife.
“Really good experience. Very laid back. Danni the tour guide was great. A great alternative from the theme parks. Bathrooms were terrible though.”
Paddle Lido Key’s quiet mangrove tunnels, with a guide, wildlife tips, and a good chance to see manatees, dolphins, and birds.
“Had a really great time kayaking through the mangroves! Ian and Dinko were great tour guides and we even got to see some manatees.”
Kayak the Lower Salt River through Tonto National Forest, with wild horses, swift water, mountain views, and a convenient shuttle back.
“Incredible experience! We can't wait to do it again soon! The staff could not have been more friendly!”
Paddle Key West’s quiet mangrove creeks, spot sea life, and learn about Florida Keys ecology on a relaxed, beginner-friendly two-hour tour.
“It’s so beautiful but I was very lucky to have perfect weather conditions! We staked through the mangroves and stopped periodically to admire sea life and birds.”
Paddle Crystal River in a clear kayak, visit Three Sisters Springs, or spot manatees with a guide on this small-group Florida tour.
“The tour is excellent. The Kayak is very easy to ride, stable, and safe. The guide was great, and we got to see the manatees up close, even passing below the glass kayak. The guide also took some fantastic pictures of us and shared them with us at the end of the tour.”
Review of Key West’s half-day schooner trip with mangrove kayaking, reef snorkeling, snacks, drinks, and a sunset sail.
“Micah and Katy were great hosts! Snacks were healthy. They were great guides made sure we had enough to drink. We were given a mini history of Key West. Wishing the kayaking went through the mangroves more. Not much to see with the snorkeling, some sponges, small fish and a lobster and jelly fish. Did get to hold a Casiopian jelly fish which was cool.”
Paddle Hilton Head’s salt marshes on a two-hour guided kayak tour with wildlife, dolphins, birds, local history, and a relaxed pace.
“Experience was pleasant and smooth. The operator was very knowledgeable and took through great places, explained how the sea eco-system works.”
Paddle four miles from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave, with Black Canyon views, desert history, snacks, and expert guides near Las Vegas.
“Just got back from an incredible three-hour kayaking tour with Evolution Expeditions to the Emerald Caves on the Colorado River, and I'm already planning my next trip! The experience was absolutely breathtaking. Paddling through the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning canyon walls, was an unforgettable adventure. The highlight, of course, was the Emerald Cave itself – a true natural wonder that photos just can't do justice. The guide was fantastic – knowledgeable, friendly, and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable throughout the journey. She shared interesting facts about the local flora, fauna, and geology, which added an educational layer to the fun. The equipment was top-...”
Paddle across quiet Mendenhall Lake to the glacier with guides, rain gear, snacks, and hot drinks on this active Juneau adventure.
“The paddling was tough but worth it. It was cool to be so close to the glacier. Jason was an awesome guide with fun local stories, tips, and jokes”
Paddle the Colorado River through Black Canyon to Emerald Cave with hotel pickup, calm water, snacks, and expert guides from $149.
“We had the best guide, Chelsea! She was knowledgable and fun. This tour was on my bucket list and did not disappoint. Thank you!”
Paddle Tavernier Creek’s clear mangroves on a beginner-friendly kayak tour with local guides, small groups, and chances to see manatees and dolphins.
“Great time! Our guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the wildlife and environment which made the experience even better.”
Review of Sarasota’s $65 mangrove kayak tour, with wildlife, expert guides, clear-water tunnels, practical tips, and honest drawbacks.
“It is a little bit hard for first time kayaks especially if the day is windy. But the guide is so patient and a great teacher! We saw amazing wildlife, explored cool tunnels and saw four manatee!!! Jacob was exceptional!”
Pick a coast, a canyon or a city.
