Paddle Big Hickory: Stand‑Up Rentals and Free Lessons near Fort Myers Beach

FORT MYERS BEACH SUP FIELD GUIDE

Paddle Big Hickory: Stand‑Up Rentals and Free Lessons near Fort Myers Beach

A hands‑on paddleboard rental at Big Hickory Island in Bonita Springs that includes instruction, safety gear and maps—this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

Paddle Big Hickory: Stand‑Up Rentals and Free Lessons near Fort Myers Beach.

Duration
1+ Hours
Location
Fort Myers Beach
Operator
Paddle Naples
Category
SUP
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Launch from Big Hickory Island in Bonita Springs for a stand‑up paddleboard rental that pairs a short on‑land safety and skills session with time on the water; rentals include life vests, dry boxes and a map, and free lessons ensure you head out with confidence.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Big Hickory Island Shorelines
THE LANDSCAPE

Big Hickory Island Shorelines

The rental centers on Big Hickory Island in Bonita Springs—an easy coastal launch where paddlers set out to explore the nearby waters after a brief on‑land overview.

Free Lessons and Confidence Before You Launch
THE INSTRUCTION

Free Lessons and Confidence Before You Launch

Every rental includes free lessons and a mandatory safety overview so the operator can make sure you understand how to paddle and where you are going before you head onto the water.

What Comes with Your Board
THE GEAR

What Comes with Your Board

Life vests, dry boxes and a map are provided with every rental, allowing you to focus on paddling and navigation without extra equipment worries.

What the day feels like

What the Rental Feels Like

Expect a short, structured start—arrive early for a mandatory safety overview and a free lesson—then carry your supplied gear to the launch at Big Hickory Island and set out with a map and dry box for a flexible paddle that typically runs an hour or longer.

Big Hickory Island Shorelines

THE LANDSCAPE

Big Hickory Island Shorelines

The rental centers on Big Hickory Island in Bonita Springs—an easy coastal launch where paddlers set out to explore the nearby waters after a brief on‑land overview.

Free Lessons and Confidence Before You Launch

THE INSTRUCTION

Free Lessons and Confidence Before You Launch

Every rental includes free lessons and a mandatory safety overview so the operator can make sure you understand how to paddle and where you are going before you head onto the water.

What Comes with Your Board

THE GEAR

What Comes with Your Board

Life vests, dry boxes and a map are provided with every rental, allowing you to focus on paddling and navigation without extra equipment worries.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits—and what to consider before you go.

1
Beginners & First‑TimersWell suited: free lessons, a mandatory safety overview and on‑site guidance are provided so novices can gain confidence before launching.
2
Independent PaddlersGood fit: rentals include a map and dry box so experienced paddlers can plan their own route once briefed by the operator.
3
FamiliesAppropriate with planning: arrive early for the safety overview and ensure children have appropriate flotation and footwear; operator instruction is included to help families get started.
4
Those Needing Flexible SchedulingFlexible option: if you want a different rental time than those listed, contact the operator by phone to arrange an alternate start.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Hat, sunglasses (polarized recommended), sunscreen, bottled water and water shoes (oyster shells can be sharp).

Included Gear

Life vests, dry boxes and a map are provided with every rental; free lessons and a mandatory safety overview are included to prepare you for the outing.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Are lessons included with the rental?

Yes—free lessons are included and the operator will ensure you are confident with paddling before you get on the water.

How long does a rental last?

Rentals run for one hour or longer.

Where do we meet and launch?

The meeting location is Bonita Springs, FL, with the launch at Big Hickory Island in Bonita Springs.

What gear is provided?

Life vests, dry boxes and a map are included with every rental.

What should I bring?

Bring a hat, sunglasses (polarized recommended), sunscreen, bottled water and water shoes because oyster shells can be sharp.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure for the mandatory safety overview.

Can I rent at a different time than listed?

If you would like to rent at a time of your choice, contact the operator by phone to arrange a different start time.