Last Updated on March 31, 2024
If you’re looking to explore the beautiful waterways of the coastal city of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, then you’re in for a treat.
This post covers the best kayak rental and tour options in Fort Lauderdale.
This sunny city is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from secluded mangroves and swamps to bustling canals lined with mansions and mega yachts.
And what better way to experience this natural beauty than on a kayak or paddleboard tour?
From exploring the Venetian Isles to experiencing Millionaire Row and Wilton Manors, each tour offers a unique experience that you won’t want to miss.
In this guide, we’ll share with you the top tours that will take you on an unforgettable adventure, regardless of if you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler.
So grab your gear, put on some sunscreen, and let’s dive in!
Kayak (And Paddleboard) Rental Fort Lauderdale- 5 Best Tours!
Photo Credit- Blue Moon Outdoor Adventure
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 93 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 hours
Looking for an adventure that’s equal parts nature, luxury, and mystery?
Look no further than the Seven Isles of Fort Lauderdale Kayak Tour.
Glide along the sparkling waters of Fort Lauderdale’s Venetian Isles, where you’ll encounter everything from jaw-dropping mansions to glamorous mega yachts.
And that’s not all—keep your eyes peeled for marine and bird life like mangroves, sea grapes, and maybe even some friendly manatees!
As you paddle through this tropical paradise, your expert guide will reveal hidden secrets and fascinating tidbits about the area.
And because this is a private tour, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and can paddle at your own easy, leisurely pace.
Don’t worry about bringing your own gear—kayaking equipment and life jackets are provided.
And with the tour departing from a centrally located point, it’s easy to get started on this unforgettable sightseeing journey.
What Is Included With This Tour?
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Kayak
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Lifejackets
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Paddles
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Bottled water
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“So glad we found Blue Moon Tours! As fairly inexperienced kayakers, Jenna took the time to make sure we felt comfortable and helped us learn the kayaking basics. The tour itself was phenomenal. Jenna went above and beyond to make sure we had pictures from all parts of the trip to take back with us, which was an unexpected bonus.his was an amazing experience! Our tour guide Alessia was incredible and is very knowledgeable. She went out of her way to make our experience great by looking for wildlife on our journey, discussing the preserve with us, and taking pictures/videos that she sent us later so we wouldn’t get our own possessions wet. I highly recommend this company and will use them and their different locations in the future!”
Jeannine_B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Sunrise Paddleboards LLC
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 2 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 hours
If you’re looking for an unforgettable kayaking adventure in Fort Lauderdale that takes you beyond the usual tourist hotspots, check out the Fort Lauderdale Tropical Kayak Tour and Island Adventure.
With a private guide leading the way, you’ll explore the hidden gems of Wilton Manors—a scenic and secluded area beloved by locals.
Forget spending hours researching the best kayaking spots—let your guide show you the way.
As you paddle through this tropical paradise, you’ll discover hidden mangroves and other secret nature spots that you wouldn’t be able to find on your own.
And because this is a private tour, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask your guide questions and learn more about the area’s rich history and culture.
With your guide’s local knowledge, you’ll avoid the crowds and see quieter parts of Fort Lauderdale that are off the usual tourist trail.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Kent was an excellent guide. The trip was easy, relaxing, and enjoyable. We didn’t see any manatees as we were hoping until we went to the dock. Another guide, Troy, was there telling us to go past and we would see one. He then paddled out with us and got a video. A beautiful day on the water.”
Lisa_W ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Sunrise Paddleboards LLC
This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 93 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 Hours
Looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure that blends history, nature, and fun?
The Fort Lauderdale Bonnet House Ground and Guided Paddle Board Kayak tour takes you on a journey through time as you explore the beautiful and historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, located on what was once a mangrove and buttonwood swamp.
Back in the late 1920s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was granted permission to deposit fill while dredging the Intracoastal, causing the swamp to perish.
But rather than let this incredible piece of nature disappear, Mr. Bartlett decided to plant rows of coconut palms where the current Bonnet House parking lot now stands.
The property now boasts a blend of native and exotic flora, including a desert garden, an orchid house, a shell museum, fruit groves, a freshwater slough, and so much more.
As you explore this stunning oasis, you’ll also have the chance to paddle board or kayak through the serene Coconut Cove.
Soak up the sunshine and admire the splendor of nature while learning about the incredible history and legacy of Frederic Clay and Evelyn Bartlett’s vision and talent displayed in the incredible architecture built around the Fountain Garden.
What Is Included With This Tour?
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Complimentary Photos and Videos
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Paddle
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Life Jacket
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Bonnet House Grounds Walking Tour
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Paddle Board or Kayak
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“We took a kayak tour this morning with Paul and had a wonderful time. Paul was very knowledgeable of all the sights and history. He made the trip fun and captured pictures of our group along the way. He took great care of us. We had experience in kayaks, but I would be comfortable recommending the tour to people who are less experienced. The tour also included access to the Bonnet House property.”
A Trip Advisor Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Sunrise Paddleboards LLC
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 68 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 1 Hour
Ready for an adventure that combines fun, fitness, and the great outdoors? Then it’s time to hit the water with Fort Lauderdale Paddle Board Rentals.
This is one of the best ways to explore South Florida’s stunning waterways and soak up some sun while you’re at it.
Pre-book your board to secure your spot and then get ready to spend hours paddling down the river and canals.
If you’re new to the world of paddleboarding, don’t worry—a short introductory course is available to help you get the hang of it before you venture out.
You’ll be gliding through the water like a pro in no time. As you paddle along, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and the lush mangrove forests that line the waterways.
And let’s not forget about Millionaire Row—the stretch of homes and yachts belonging to the rich and famous.
What Is Included With This Tour?
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Paddle Board
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Paddle
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Life Jacket
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Complimentary Photos and Videos
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Free Parking for guests
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“We had a great time paddle boarding as part of our much-needed south Florida vaca!! Thank you for such an easy and friendly experience.”
Heather_F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Sunrise Paddleboards LLC
This tour is rated 5 Stars with 5 Reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 Hours
Get ready to experience the ultimate adventure in nature and city vibes with our Sunset on Paddleboard Experience in Las Olas Fort Lauderdale.
This tour will take you on a ride through the Downtown New River, where you’ll enjoy the beautiful sunset while paddling along the waterways of the Venice River.
During this tour, you can fully immerse yourself in nature as you feel the breeze on your skin and witness the colors of the sky change from blue to pink to orange.
As you paddle through the waterways, you’ll also have the chance to spot local wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the mangrove forests.
Plus, with music, water, and beers provided, you can indulge in some drinks and good vibes while paddling along.
What Is Included With This Tour?
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Life jackets
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Beer and Water
Here is what a past guest said about this tour:
“It was nice to get photos taken from our guide, and the cityscape was cool at sunset, but if you’re looking for a natural experience, this is very urban.”
Amy_K ⭐⭐⭐⭐
What Are The Best Areas To Kayak/Paddleboard In Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale is a paradise for kayakers and paddleboarders, with numerous waterways to explore.
Some of the best areas to kayak and paddleboard in Fort Lauderdale include:
New River: This is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a peaceful paddle through the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
You can enjoy the scenic views of downtown and admire the luxurious mansions along the riverbanks.
Middle River: This is a great spot for those who want to explore the mangrove forests and see the local wildlife such as manatees and dolphins.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: This park offers a peaceful and scenic paddle through freshwater lagoons and mangrove-lined channels.
Fort Lauderdale Beach: This is a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking as the calm waters make it easy for beginners to enjoy.
Wilton Manors: This is a scenic and secluded area that is perfect for those who want to explore places off the beaten track and discover hidden mangroves.
What Should You Bring On The Tour?
Never hit the water without your sunscreen. You’ll want at least SPF 30 to protect from the Florida sun.
Sun Bum Sun Screen
If you’re planning a boat cruise, quick drying beach towels are an essential item to pack. Unlike regular towels, quick drying beach towels are made from materials that dry quickly, meaning you won’t have to worry about them getting wet and heavy as the day goes on.
Quick Drying Beach Towel
Keep your phone dry and take beautiful pictures under water with a waterproof phone case.
Waterproof Phone Case
Kayak (& Paddleboard) Rental Fort Lauderdale- Summary
Fort Lauderdale offers some of the best kayak and paddleboard rental and tour options in South Florida.
From exploring the Wilton Manors mangroves to paddling down the New River at sunset, the natural beauty of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways will leave you in awe.
The best time of year to do these tours is from October to May when the weather is mild and the water is calm.
So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience Fort Lauderdale from a unique perspective.
So what are you waiting for? Book a tour, hit the water, and enjoy the ride!
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Booking a last-minute trip to Fort Lauderdale?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended hotels and accommodations!
Top Hotels In Fort Lauderdale
Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale – (Top Rated Hotel Located At Downtown)
Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach– (Highly Rated Hotel Near Ft Lauderdale Beach)
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach – (Luxury Hotel With Beachfront View)
Soleado Hotel – (Top-Rated Apartment Nearby Beach )
Looking To Get Around In Fort Lauderdale?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
Travel Resources
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