Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Adventure Tour of Bonita Springs

If you’re looking to add a splash of wildlife wonder to your Florida trip, the Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Adventure Tour of Bonita Springs might just be your ticket. Offered by Three Brothers Boards, this guided eco-tour combines the thrill of paddleboarding with the chance to see some of the Sunshine State’s most iconic marine creatures. For just $65 per person, travelers get about two hours of exploring pristine waterways, with plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a host of other fascinating wildlife.

One aspect we really like about this tour is the expert guidance provided by knowledgeable staff like Eric, who earns glowing reviews for his friendly, informative approach. The tour’s setting—away from busy hotels or crowded beaches—adds to its appeal, providing a peaceful, close-to-nature experience. However, potential visitors should keep in mind that this tour runs in inlet waters, which can be influenced by tides, possibly affecting some sightings or the overall paddle experience.

This tour is ideal for families, nature lovers, and beginners alike. If you’re eager to see Florida’s marine life in a relaxed setting without the need for snorkeling or diving gear, this could be your perfect outing. But if you’re seeking an intense, workout-style paddle session, this tour’s slow pace and casual approach might be less appealing.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Good chances to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and even bald eagles.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides like Eric, who provide friendly instruction and local insights.
• Relaxed Pace: Suitable for beginners or those wanting a gentle, leisurely paddle.
• Beautiful Setting: Paddling along pristine, hotel-free beaches and calm inlet waters.
• Affordable Value: At $65, it offers a memorable wildlife experience for a reasonable price.
• Booking: Tours are popular, often booked 9 days in advance, so plan ahead.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at 26082 Hickory Blvd, Bonita Springs, a spot that’s ideally situated close to some of the area’s most scenic and untouched waters. Unlike crowded beaches, this location offers a peaceful launch point, where you’ll start your adventure paddling along the coast or through calm inlet waters. The tour’s route is flexible—sometimes paddling alongside the beach, other times stopping briefly to admire the scenery or look for wildlife.

The first stop typically takes you through a section of Fort Myers’ beautiful, hotel-free shoreline. This area is notable for its lack of development, meaning you’re paddling in a relatively untouched environment. Depending on conditions, your guide might make a brief stop here, giving everyone a chance to rest, snap photos, or just soak in the views.

The second stop varies based on tide and weather, but often involves exploring a different part of the inlet or mangroves. One reviewer mentioned that the tour wasn’t on the open ocean but in a protected inlet, which can affect what wildlife you see and the overall paddle experience. This environment is perfect for observing sea turtles, starfish, and conchs, as well as enjoying the tranquility of the waterways.

What to Expect During the Tour

• Wildlife Spotting: Guests frequently report seeing dolphins that come quite close, which is a real highlight. As Belinda_H shared, “Eric, our guide, was great! We saw dolphins getting pretty close.” The chance to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is a memorable perk.
• Wildlife Guides: Guides like Eric are praised for their knowledge about the local ecosystem and their friendly, encouraging instruction—perfect for first-timers or those new to paddleboarding.
• Light Activity: The tour is described as a slow, casual paddle—more of a gentle float than a workout. Nicole_K noted it was “very light work and slow pace,” making it accessible even for beginners.
• Scenic Beauty: Expect stunning views of calm waters, mangroves, and unspoiled beaches. You might paddle past large pink spoonbills or bald eagles, adding to the natural spectacle.
• Shelling and Muck: Some parts of the route include exploring shallow waters or mucky mangroves, which might be less glamorous but are rewarding for nature lovers hunting for shells or starfish.

The Practical Side

• Group Size & Booking: With a maximum of 25 participants, the tour remains intimate enough for personalized attention. Due to high demand, most bookings are made around 9 days in advance.
• Included Gear: Paddleboards, kayaks, paddles, and life vests are provided, so you won’t need to bring your own equipment—just your sense of adventure.
• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an easy morning or afternoon activity. It’s near public transportation, so getting there isn’t a hassle.
• Weather & Cancellation: The tour relies heavily on good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Cancellations more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

The Review from Past Participants

Belinda_H called out her guide Eric’s friendliness and knowledge, emphasizing how he made paddleboarding accessible for a first-timer. She enjoyed the route and the opportunity to meet other family members. Meloney_L echoed this, saying, “Eric was very nice and patient,” and was thrilled to get close to dolphins.

On the flip side, Nicole_K found the tour quite laid-back—”a very light work and slow pace,” with some parts involving shelling and passing through mucky waters. She noted that dolphins and manatees are better spotted later in the day, especially after March, indicating some seasonality in wildlife sightings.

The Value of the Experience

At $65, this tour provides a highly affordable way to connect with Florida’s wildlife. The price covers equipment, guides, and the opportunity to see animals that are otherwise hard to spot in their natural habitat. When considering the guides’ local expertise and the peaceful setting, it’s a solid choice for travelers who prefer a gentle, educational adventure rather than an adrenaline rush.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the emphasis on authentic wildlife encounters rather than staged or crowded venues. The tour’s setting, away from noisy beaches and busy waterways, enhances the feeling of being in a natural sanctuary. This is especially true if you’re lucky enough to see dolphins approaching closely or spot a bald eagle perched nearby.

While the tour is quite relaxed, that’s part of its charm. It allows you to slow down, observe, and appreciate Florida’s ecosystems. It’s perfect for families, older travelers, or anyone wanting a low-key but meaningful wildlife experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts, families, or beginners who want a gentle introduction to paddleboarding in calm waters. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, educational outing that emphasizes wildlife viewing over physical exertion.

If you’re traveling with kids or seniors, the slow pace and shallow waters make it an accessible choice. Also, if you’re eager to learn about the ecosystem from a friendly guide—like Eric—this tour offers more than just pretty views; it’s a mini ecology lesson.

However, those seeking a high-energy paddle or a snorkeling adventure might find this too tame. Also, visitors should plan ahead, as bookings fill up quickly and weather conditions can impact the experience.

The Sum Up

The Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Adventure Tour of Bonita Springs offers a low-stress, high-reward opportunity to witness Florida’s marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Guided by experienced and friendly staff, you’ll enjoy a relaxed paddle along pristine waters, with chances to see dolphins, sea turtles, and other wildlife up close.

This tour stands out for its authentic setting, knowledgeable guides, and affordable pricing. It’s especially suitable for families, novices, or anyone seeking a peaceful, nature-focused outing. While it may not be the most strenuous activity, it delivers memorable wildlife encounters and scenic views that will stay with you long after your paddle ends.

If you’re in the Naples or Bonita Springs area and want a genuine, educational, and fun introduction to Florida’s coastal ecosystems, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is described as slow-paced and suitable for most travelers, including those new to paddleboarding.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers paddleboards, kayaks, paddles, and life vests. No additional gear is necessary unless you wish to bring your own.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a morning or afternoon outing.

What wildlife might I see?
You have good chances to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, bald eagles, pink spoonbills, starfish, and live conchs.

How far in advance should I book?
Most reservations are made about 9 days ahead, so planning early is recommended, especially during peak season.

What if the weather turns bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 26082 Hickory Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated for good service.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 25 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personal experience.

In summary, this paddle tour offers more than just wildlife sightings; it provides a gentle, educational, and beautifully scenic experience tailored to those who want to enjoy Florida’s natural coastlines at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a family, a nature lover, or a first-timer, it’s a chance to make meaningful memories in a peaceful setting.