ARANSAS PASS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Paddling the Lighthouse Lakes: Mangrove Channels, Flats and a 19th‑Century Beacon
A 3.5‑hour guided kayak tour from Coastal Bend Kayak in Aransas Pass that follows the Lighthouse Lakes Trails through a mangrove estuary to Redfish Bay.
Paddling the Lighthouse Lakes: Mangrove Channels, Flats and a 19th‑Century Beacon.
The Lighthouse Lakes Trails Tour threads four interconnected loops through a mangrove estuary and across shallow channels and flats, offering close-up birding and photographic opportunities and a chance to view the historic 1857 Lydia Ann Lighthouse on North Harbor Island. The tour runs from a kayak shop in Aransas Pass and combines on‑water paddling with a preparatory Kayak Safety 101 session.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Mangrove estuary, channels and flats
Expect winding channels and broad flats as the trail moves through a coastal mangrove estuary—terrain that concentrates birdlife and frames close-range photographic opportunities along the way.
The 1857 Lydia Ann Lighthouse
A notable waypoint on the route is the Historic 1857 Lydia Ann Lighthouse on North Harbor Island, a visible historic landmark reached from the paddling trail.
First Texas Paddling Trail — four loops
This tour follows the very first Texas Paddling Trail, composed of four loops that range in length and wind through the estuary, giving paddlers options to experience short or longer on‑water sections.
What the day feels like
How the tour unfolds
The outing begins at the Coastal Bend Kayak shop in Aransas Pass with a Kayak Safety 101 and about an hour of pre‑launch prep and porting; then the guided portion spends roughly 2.5 hours on the water exploring Redfish Bay and the Lighthouse Lakes Trails, moving through mangroves, channels and flats and stopping where the guide points out wildlife and the Lydia Ann Lighthouse.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and when it may not be ideal.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Closed‑toe shoes, UV sun‑protective clothing, and sunscreen are recommended; operators provide kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices.
Kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided as part of the tour.
The tour includes a Kayak Safety 101 session and time for porting to the launch as part of the overall 3.5‑hour outing (see trip duration for timing breakdown).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Lighthouse Lakes Trails Tour?
The total outing is 3.5 hours, with roughly 2.5 hours on the water and about 1 hour allocated for porting to the launch and Kayak Safety 101.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The tour begins at the Coastal Bend Kayak shop in Aransas Pass.
Is equipment provided?
Yes—kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices are provided for the tour.
Can beginners or children join?
This is a guided tour described as great for all ages and kayak experience levels; a Kayak Safety 101 is included prior to launch.
What happens if only a few people book?
There must be a four‑guest minimum for guided tours; if the minimum is not met, the operator reserves the option to cancel the tour and will notify you in advance.
Can the launch location change?
Yes—the location may change based on tide conditions and weather.
Who do I call with questions or to book same‑day?
For additional questions or same‑day bookings call 361‑557‑7003.