Key West is a paradise for kayaking enthusiasts. This incredible area offers access to crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and serene mangrove islands.
When you visit Key West, you’re going to find unique adventures, from tranquil eco-tours to thrilling encounters with sea turtles and nurse sharks. For this and a number of other reasons, Key West is one of our favorite places to go kayaking in Florida.
Before you plan your kayaking trip to Key West, make sure you have a great place to stay. We highly recommend the vacation homes by VHKW thanks to their variety of locations, sizes, amenities, and price points.
If you’re planning a kayaking trip to Key West, be sure to check out these top 9 spots to paddle through the beautiful Florida Keys.
1. Geiger Key, Florida Keys (15 minutes from Key West)
Geiger Key is a prime spot for an immersive kayak tour near Key West. Known for its intricate mangrove tunnels, this area offers kayakers a front-row seat to explore the backcountry ecosystem.
Paddle through shallow waters teeming with life, including iguanas, stingrays, and colorful fish. It’s one of the most beautiful places in all of Key West.
This peaceful key is ideal for those looking for an authentic eco-tour experience within a short drive of Key West. When you’re ready for a calm, relaxed kayaking trip, you’ll want to make sure you visit beautiful Geiger Key.
2. Key West Mangrove Eco Tours (In Key West)
For an unforgettable experience, the Key West Mangrove Eco Tours provide guided trips through the unique mangrove tunnels of Key West.
These guided tours focus on the delicate local ecosystem, and knowledgeable guides will introduce you to the region’s marine biodiversity. Look out for manatees, sea turtles, and even nurse sharks as you glide through the calm, protected waters.
This is one of the most incredible spots in the Florida Keys to check out the wildlife when you’re on a kayaking trip.
3. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (In Key West)
One of the most remarkable places to explore by kayak, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is a vast protected area home to diverse sea life and delicate coral reefs.
Kayak rentals and guided eco-tours are available, allowing you to paddle through this extraordinary underwater world.
This sanctuary is perfect for an adventure combining snorkeling and paddleboarding alongside your kayak trip to see the ecosystem up close. This is the perfect kayak trip for those who love to see incredible wildlife when kayaking.
4. Boca Chica Sandbar (20 minutes from Key West)
For a scenic escape just outside Key West, the Boca Chica Sandbar is a must-visit for kayakers. You can paddle across the water to the sandy shore where you can enjoy a picnic or take a quick dip in the water.
Boca Chica Sandbar has calm, shallow waters and is a great place for beginners and those who want to spend the day soaking up the sun.
Naval Air Station Key West is nearby, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see some of the big military jets taking off and landing. Be sure to bring your sunscreen and plan for a relaxing day in paradise.
Nothing beats a Boca Chica Sandbar trip!
5. Key West Sunset Kayak Tour (In Key West)
People love the beautiful sunsets in Key West, and it’s easy to experience the beauty of a Key West sunset like never before when you take a sunset kayak tour. As the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, the water glows with vibrant colors, creating a magical backdrop for your paddle. Small groups and experienced guides help make this tour an intimate experience.
You’ll find that during this trip, you’ll have interesting insights into local wildlife and the rich history of the Florida Keys. Once you finish the kayaking tour, be sure to take some time to unwind and enjoy dinner or shopping in beautiful Key West.
6. Shark Key (10 minutes from Key West)
Located just a short paddle from Key West, Shark Key is a fantastic spot for backcountry kayaking. The shallow waters surrounding the key are ideal for spotting nurse sharks, stingrays, and even iguanas basking on the shore.
This area is also popular with snorkelers who want to explore the rich marine life without straying far from the surface, making it a great choice for a combined kayak and snorkel adventure.
People come from across the globe to check out the sites, spend hours on the water, and enjoy the Florida Keys.
7. Key West Night Kayak Tour (In Key West)
For a thrilling adventure, try a night kayak tour around Key West. Illuminated kayaks light up the water, creating an extraordinary experience as you paddle through the glowing mangrove tunnels.
Keep an eye out for nocturnal sea life, including jellyfish and barracudas.
With knowledgeable guides and a convenient cancellation policy for peace of mind, this unique tour offers a memorable way to experience the Keys after dark. You won’t be disappointed with this kayak trip and all that it offers for fun and adventure.
8. Lazy Dog Charters Kayak (In Key West)
For a full-service kayaking experience, Lazy Dog Charters provides kayak rentals, paddleboard rentals, and guided tours around Key West’s mangrove islands and national wildlife refuge areas.
With options for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, Lazy Dog offers customized trips to fit your interests. Whether you want to paddle solo or join a group, this outfitter ensures a seamless experience with quality gear and friendly staff.
Best of all, you’ll not only have plenty of adventure on the water, but there are many places to spend time shopping, dining, and just having fun with friends or family on the water.
9. Key West Sandbar Trip (In Key West)
A Key West sandbar trip is a must for those seeking the ultimate island adventure. Paddle out to the shallow sandbars that emerge at low tide, where you can relax and take in the view of the endless turquoise waters.
Enjoy a picnic or a quick dip and take photos of the breathtaking scenery. This popular destination is ideal for anyone looking for a serene, picturesque spot just minutes from Key West.
Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen because you’ll want to spend as much time paddling in the sun when you’re on this trip.
You’ll Love Kayaking in Key West
Key West’s vibrant ecosystem and diverse marine life make it a dream destination for kayakers of all skill levels. You’ll find options that range from serene eco-tours in the mangroves to exciting night paddles.
It’s easy to see that there’s something for everyone in Key West.
You’ll even find great places to stop for lunch or to relax in the evenings to unwind after a long day on the water. Be sure to pack your sunscreen, grab your life jacket, and get ready for a trip you won’t forget!
