Board, Glide, Observe: 90 Minutes Through New Smyrna’s Indian River Islands

NEW SMYRNA BEACH SUP FIELD GUIDE

Board, Glide, Observe: 90 Minutes Through New Smyrna’s Indian River Islands

A 90-minute guided paddle launching from Mary McLeod Bethune Park into the Indian River Lagoon near Canaveral National Seashore — this guide lays out the route, wildlife highlights, and practical tips for families and first-time paddlers.

Board, Glide, Observe: 90 Minutes Through New Smyrna’s Indian River Islands.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
New Smyrna Beach
Operator
Om Sunshine Yoga & Paddleboard
Category
SUP
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Settle onto a board and push off from the intercoastal side of Mary McLeod Bethune Park for a concise, focused paddle through the sheltered channels and islands of the Indian River Lagoon. Over 90 minutes the guided tour moves at an easy pace, pausing to explore shorelines and watch the wildlife that inhabits this quieter stretch of Florida coast near Canaveral National Seashore.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

A sheltered lagoon route
THE WATERS

A sheltered lagoon route

The tour navigates the calm channels and islands of the Indian River Lagoon, providing a peaceful paddle in protected water that showcases the coastal landscape without long open-ocean crossings.

Wildlife viewing from the board
THE WILDLIFE

Wildlife viewing from the board

Guides pause along the way so paddlers can observe the varied animals and birds that inhabit this stretch of the East Coast, turning simple moments on the water into informal nature stops.

Instruction and all-ages welcome
THE ACCESS

Instruction and all-ages welcome

Instruction is provided for paddlers of every level, and children may join on a guardian's board, making the trip accessible to families and beginners wanting a guided introduction to stand-up paddling.

What the day feels like

What the outing feels like

The rhythm is simple: launch, glide between small islands, pause to scan the shoreline and mangrove edges, then continue. Over a compact 90-minute window the guide keeps the group together, alternating instruction with stretches of quiet paddling so everyone — from first-timers to occasional boarders — can appreciate the water and wildlife of this tranquil lagoon near Canaveral National Seashore.

A sheltered lagoon route

THE WATERS

A sheltered lagoon route

The tour navigates the calm channels and islands of the Indian River Lagoon, providing a peaceful paddle in protected water that showcases the coastal landscape without long open-ocean crossings.

Wildlife viewing from the board

THE WILDLIFE

Wildlife viewing from the board

Guides pause along the way so paddlers can observe the varied animals and birds that inhabit this stretch of the East Coast, turning simple moments on the water into informal nature stops.

Instruction and all-ages welcome

THE ACCESS

Instruction and all-ages welcome

Instruction is provided for paddlers of every level, and children may join on a guardian's board, making the trip accessible to families and beginners wanting a guided introduction to stand-up paddling.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits — and who should reconsider.

1
Active FamiliesWell suited: children 13 and under may ride on a guardian's board, making it a compact family-friendly paddle so long as the guardian supplies a properly fitting life jacket for the child.
2
First-time PaddlersWell suited: instruction is provided and the route stays in protected lagoon water, making this a good introduction to stand-up paddling.
3
Casual Outdoor EnthusiastsWell suited: the 90-minute duration and guided format make it an easy half-hour commitment on either end for those looking for a nature-focused outing without extensive exertion.
4
Teen Groups & Mixed-Ability PartiesAppropriate: all ages and experience levels are welcome, and the ride-on option for younger children helps mixed groups stay together during the short tour.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

If a child ages 13 or under will ride on your board, the parent or guardian must provide a life jacket that fits the child.

Health & Safety Notes

Instruction is provided for all levels; parents supplying life jackets for young children is required for safety during the tour.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Manatee Cove Paddleboard Adventure?

The paddle tour lasts 90 minutes.

Where do we launch for the tour?

The tour launches from the intercoastal side of Mary McLeod Bethune Park in New Smyrna Beach.

Who operates the paddleboard tours?

The operator is Om Sunshine Yoga & Paddleboard.

What are the rates for adults and children?

Adult rate (ages 14+) is $45.00; child rate (ages 13 and under) is $15.00.

Are beginners and children allowed on the tour?

Yes. Instruction is provided for all skill levels, and children 13 and under may ride on a parent or guardian's board (parent must provide a life jacket that fits the child).

Is the tour near Canaveral National Seashore?

Yes. The 90-minute paddle is conducted near Canaveral National Seashore in the Indian River Lagoon.