SARASOTA KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddling Siesta Key’s Mangrove Tunnel to a Secret Shoreline
A 2–2.5 hour guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour through the Jim Neville Marine Preserve, ending at a secluded Casey Key beach — essential reading for planning the trip.
Paddling Siesta Key’s Mangrove Tunnel to a Secret Shoreline.
From a launch at Turtle Beach Boat Ramp, the Famous Mangrove Tunnel and Hidden Beach Tour threads a short, easy paddle through the Jim Neville Marine Preserve, a wildlife-rich 300-acre network of mangrove islands that opens onto a secluded shoreline on Casey Key.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Jim Neville Marine Preserve — 300 acres of mangrove isles
The paddle trail winds through uninhabited, mangrove-covered islands that shelter a dense coastal ecosystem — expect to see Ospreys, Pelicans, Herons and other coastal birds among the roots and channels.
Dolphins, manatees and nearshore life
This protected preserve is prime habitat for marine life: dolphins and manatees are regularly encountered, alongside oyster beds and small fish that draw a diverse population of coastal birds.
Hidden beach at Casey Key
A highlight of the route is a secluded beach at Midnight Pass on Casey Key — a shoreline only accessible by water and one of the tour’s quieter moments if you book early.
What the day feels like
What the tour feels like
The outing is a short, easy paddle suitable for a wide range of abilities: launch from Turtle Beach Boat Ramp, move through sheltered mangrove channels in the Jim Neville Marine Preserve, absorb wildlife sightings and finish with time ashore on a hidden Casey Key beach before returning.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip matches — and why.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Options and published rates: Single Kayak $59; Tandem Kayak $109; Standup Paddleboard $59.
Launch and return are from Turtle Beach Boat Ramp; the operator is Ultimate Kayak SRQ and the booking confirmation includes the precise address.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours.
What craft options are available and what do they cost?
Options and rates are: Single Kayak $59; Tandem Kayak $109; Standup Paddleboard $59.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The tour launches from Turtle Beach Boat Ramp; the exact address is provided in your booking confirmation.
Will we see wildlife on this trip?
Yes — the preserve is home to dolphins, manatees, oyster beds, small fish and a diverse population of coastal birds such as Ospreys, Pelicans, Egrets and Herons.
Is the hidden beach accessible by land?
No — the beach at Midnight Pass on Casey Key described on the tour is only accessible by water.
Is this trip appropriate for beginners and families?
Yes — the paddle trail is described as a short, easy paddle suitable for any age and any experience level.