Adventure brief
Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Merritt Island
Paddle alongside dolphins and manatees on a 2-hour wildlife paddle tour through Merritt Island’s serene waterways. Three Brothers Boards offers an intimate, up-close Florida nature experience just minutes from Cocoa Beach.
Merritt Island, Florida, a uniquely vibrant coastal habitat along the Atlantic, offers one of the rarest wildlife experiences in the southeastern United States. Here, Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours specializes in their Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour, a two-hour journey across the waterways near Cocoa Beach where paddlers have the chance to encounter Florida’s iconic marine mammals in their natural environment. The tour glides through intricate mangrove-lined channels and between small islands, providing a chance to observe not only playful bottlenose dolphins but also the gentle West Indian manatee, a species that thrives in only a handful of habitats worldwide.
Sea turtles and a colorful array of birdlife—including pelicans and the strikingly pink roseate spoonbill—often join the paddle, making each trip a dynamic wildlife viewing adventure. Beyond the abundant fauna, the tour weaves in local history shaped by the space coast and coastal communities, enriching the paddle with stories of the land and seascape. Three Brothers Boards bring more than a decade of regional expertise, ensuring both safety and intimate knowledge to maximize the outdoor experience.
The company’s location in Daytona Beach situates it perfectly for visitors seeking a nature break from Florida’s bustling theme parks, just 45 minutes west. This tour stands out in the local outdoor recreation landscape for combining active, accessible paddling with immersive wildlife encounters in one of the last refuges for manatees. It’s a memorable, family-friendly adventure that brings paddlers up close to Florida’s natural treasures with expert guidance and respect for environmental stewardship.
For anyone wanting to paddle where dolphins dance and manatees graze amid glistening waterscapes, Three Brothers Boards offer a skilled, seasoned gateway to Merritt Island’s living wilderness.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear reef-safe sunscreenessential
Protect your skin and local wildlife by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen before your paddle trip.
- 02Arrive early for paddle orientationinfo
Plan to arrive 15 minutes ahead to get comfortable with your board and safety briefing.
- 03Bring a waterproof camera or caseinfo
Capture wildlife moments without risking gear damage on the water.
- 04Watch for tides and water currentswarning
Tidal changes affect wildlife visibility and water conditions, so check timing before you go.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Safety first — a properly fitted PFD is mandatory for all paddlers.
EssentialWaterproof dry bag
Keeps your valuables and electronics safe and dry during the tour.
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Wear moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and comfortable under Florida’s sun.
summerEssentialWater shoes or sandals
Protect your feet when launching and landing on sandy or rocky shores.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Sykes Creek Preserve – a quieter, less crowded spot for paddling and birdwatching nearby, Turtle Mound – an ancient shell midden site with archaeological significance accessible by kayak
Local fauna
West Indian manatee, Bottlenose dolphin
Historic heritage
Merritt Island’s waterways have supported native peoples and settlers for centuries, including habitation by the Timucua tribe and later maritime industries.
Mindful exploration
Three Brothers Boards follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact on fragile ecosystems and supports ongoing manatee habitat protection efforts.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Near mangrove-lined channels where wildlife congregate, Small islands along the tour route, Open water stretches with clear skies reflected
- Subjects
- Wildlife close-ups, Water reflections and landscapes, Paddleboarders in action
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need previous paddleboarding experience?
No prior experience is necessary; your guide will provide a full orientation and safety briefing.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, West Indian manatees, sea turtles, pelicans, and roseate spoonbills.
Are the tours suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly for all ages with stable boards and attentive guides.
What happens if wildlife is not visible?
The guides know the best spots and conditions; tours may adjust pace to improve sightings, but wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Due to the nature of paddleboarding, wheelchair access is limited, but please contact the company directly for accommodations.
Can I bring my own paddleboard?
The company provides all necessary gear to keep the tour safe and consistent; personal boards are not required.