Raccoon Island Exploration on SUP/Kayak

If you’re looking to see Miami from a different angle — away from the busy beaches and bustling city streets — a small-group kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour to Raccoon Island might be just the ticket. This guided experience offers a chance to glide through mangroves, spot raccoons and other wildlife, and relax with snacks and drinks in hand. It’s a laid-back, nature-focused outing that appeals to both outdoor enthusiasts and curious observers alike.

What we love about this tour is how personalized it feels; with a maximum of 11 travelers, you’re not just another face in a crowd. Plus, the opportunity to see friendly raccoons up close, play with tree crabs, and learn about the local ecosystem from knowledgeable guides makes this a truly engaging experience. However, since it involves paddling, folks who aren’t comfortable on water or with moderate physical activity might want to consider their fitness level beforehand. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape into Miami’s natural surroundings.

Key Points:
– Small, intimate group for a more personal and relaxed experience
– All equipment, snacks, and beverages included, adding great value
– Focus on wildlife spotting and educational commentary
– Suitable for most travelers, with some physical activity involved
– Cancellations are flexible if made 24 hours in advance
– Highly praised guides elevate the experience

What the Tour Covers: A Detailed Breakdown

This three-hour adventure starts at a conveniently located meeting point at 10800 Collins Ave in Miami Beach. From there, you’ll first get geared up with all necessary equipment — kayaks or paddleboards are included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. Once ready, your guide will lead you through the waters of Osprey Nature Preserve, a peaceful area brimming with wildlife and natural beauty.

Paddling Through the Mangroves

The journey begins with a paddle through the mangroves, a quiet and scenic route that sets the tone for the entire experience. As you glide beneath the arching branches and into the calm waters, you’ll love the chance to observe the varied birdlife and the lush greenery. Several reviewers have highlighted how peaceful and beautiful this part of the trip is, with one describing it as “so peaceful” and “beautiful and relaxing.”

Your guides are there to enhance your understanding of the ecosystem, sharing insights about the mangroves’ role in coastal health and the species that inhabit them. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge — Megan_F, for instance, calls Sean an “amazing guide” who helped us appreciate the area even more.

Reaching Raccoon Island

After about an hour of paddling, you’ll arrive at Sandspur Island, affectionately known as Raccoon Island. It’s a small, sandy island that feels like a secret hideaway. Expect to explore, swim, and, most famously, meet some very friendly raccoons. Several reviews mention how approachable and unafraid these raccoons are, often accepting attention and food from visitors.

One reviewer vividly recalls, “We saw a large group of raccoons and they were very friendly and accepted all of our attention without hesitation.” Feeding the raccoons with watermelon or grapes is a highlight, adding a fun, interactive element to the outing. Keep in mind, while the raccoons are adorable, they are wild animals, and the guides will brief you on respectful wildlife interaction.

Snacking and Refreshments

What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of snacks and drinks, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. As you relax on the island or paddle back, the guides often offer water, Gatorade, and sometimes alcoholic beverages — a thoughtful touch that helps cool down after some paddling. One reviewer appreciated that the guides even offered free alcohol, and everyone still stayed friendly and attentive.

Wildlife Encounters and Photos

Beyond raccoons, the tour may include sightings of iguanas and even crabs, according to some travelers. Shooting photos of these animals in their natural habitat is a delightful opportunity. Although the raccoons are the stars, the overall biodiversity of the area offers plenty of chances for wildlife observation.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $99 per person, which we find to be an excellent value considering everything included — all equipment, snacks, drinks, and the guidance of knowledgeable guides. Plus, the small-group setting enhances the quality of the experience, making it more intimate and engaging.

It’s worth noting that most travelers book this experience at least 16 days in advance, indicating its popularity. The tour is roughly three hours long, making it suitable for a half-day activity. Since the meeting point is central in Miami Beach, transportation options are straightforward.

Group Size & Accessibility

With a maximum of 11 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience without feeling rushed or crowded. The experience is open to most travelers, as confirmation is received at booking, and most participants can take part comfortably. However, some paddling is involved, so a basic level of physical fitness helps. Those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort on water.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Weather plays a crucial role in outdoor water activities. If conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled, with the option to reschedule or get a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

Meeting Point & Logistics

The starting point at Collins Ave is easy to access, close to other Miami attractions. The tour provides all necessary equipment, so you only need to bring a sense of adventure and perhaps some sunscreen.

Authentic Experiences & Crowd Opinions

Throughout the reviews, some common themes emerge. Travelers repeatedly praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond — whether offering watermelon for raccoons or making sure everyone feels comfortable on the water. Megan_F calls Sean “an amazing guide,” while others highlight how guides offer extra amenities like water, Gatorade, and alcohol.

Participants rave about the scenery, describing it as “so peaceful,” “beautiful,” and “relaxing.” The raccoons are often called “super cute,” and many mention how the opportunity to feed and interact with them is a highlight.

Some reviews note that paddling across the bay can require some effort, especially against the wind, but most agree that it’s worth the physical challenge for the wildlife encounters and scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, and eco-adventurers who enjoy small-group settings. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate wildlife and want an authentic look at Miami’s natural ecosystems. It’s also suited for beginners or those trying paddleboarding or kayaking for the first time, thanks to clear instructions and supportive guides.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer very leisurely activities might find some paddling a bit demanding. It’s best suited for people who enjoy light physical activity and are comfortable on water.

Final Thoughts

This Raccoon Island kayak and paddleboard excursion offers a wonderful blend of adventure, education, and wildlife encounters in a setting that’s both peaceful and fun. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge turn what could be just a paddle into a memorable, authentic Miami experience.

For $99, you get a well-organized, small-group outing that provides real value — with all gear, snacks, and drinks included. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape into nature, eager to see raccoons up close, or looking for a different way to explore Miami’s waters, this tour checks all the boxes.

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging outdoor activity that combines wildlife, scenery, and good company, this trip to Raccoon Island will leave you with lasting memories. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a typical sightseeing tour — it’s about experiencing Miami’s natural charm firsthand.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and guides provide clear instructions, making it accessible even if you’ve never kayaked or paddleboarded before.

How long does the paddling part last?
The paddling to Raccoon Island takes about an hour, providing a peaceful time on the water before reaching the island.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes snacks and beverages, including water, Gatorade, and sometimes alcohol, which helps keep everyone refreshed.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect raccoons, and possibly iguanas and crabs. The guides will share insights about the local ecosystem along the way.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours prior, you won’t receive a refund.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 10800 Collins Ave in Miami Beach, which is easy to access from other parts of Miami.

In a nutshell, this tour represents a balanced mix of outdoor activity, wildlife viewing, and local education — topped with the charm of Miami’s natural environment. For those seeking a peaceful yet engaging way to explore the area, it’s a reliable choice that many travelers seem to love.