Raccoon Island tours: choose your way to see wild raccoons on Biscayne Bay
The main choice: paddle or cruise
Every tour reaches Raccoon Island, but the way you get there shapes the whole day. Paddle tours put you in a kayak or paddleboard and give you control over the pace. Boat tours cruise out and either pass by or anchor offshore so you can swim or float. The SUP & Kayak paddle is most booked (1,478 reviews); the Ultimate is cheapest ($74); the Wildlife Adventure is rated highest (4.9 stars). Below: what each type covers and live availability.
All six Raccoon Island tours
Six core options: two paddle tours (SUP/kayak), three boat cruises (one with mansions), and a private group charter. All are rated 4.6 or higher and bookable with free cancellation.
Most booked
Top ratedRaccoon Island Adventure: Wildlife, Island Walk & Floats
Best valueBiscayne Bay Ultimate Boat Tour with Kayak Experience
Boat cruiseMiami Beach Boat Tour: Celebrity Mansions & Raccoon Island
Half dayMiami: 4-Hour Island Hopping Boat Trip with Floating Mat
PrivatePrivate Sandbar, Billionaire's Row & Raccoon Island Tour
Paddle tours vs. boat tours: which is right for you?
You want to be IN the water or just near it. Paddle tours are roughly the same price ($74–$99), last ~3–4 hours, and demand fitness and water shoes. Boat tours run $74–$140, last ~2–4 hours, and require no paddling skill. Compare the three most booked:
| Raccoon Island: SUP & Kayak Wildlife Paddle | Top pickBiscayne Bay Ultimate Boat Tour with Kayak Experience | Miami Beach Boat Tour: Celebrity Mansions & Raccoon Island | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $99 | $74 | $99 |
| Type | SUP/kayak paddle | Boat + short kayak | Boat cruise |
| Best for | Paddlers who want to go deep | Families, budget | No paddle option |
| You get wet | Yes (plan for it) | Light (optional kayak leg) | No |
| Rating | 4.7 (1,478 reviews) | 4.7 (329 reviews) | 4.8 (201 reviews) |
| View → | Book this → | View → |
Book at least a few days ahead in peak season (Nov–May). Tours sell out on weekends. All offer free cancellation, so early booking gives you flexibility.
Read the tour reviews first
I’ve written detailed reviews of each tour — what’s actually included, what real guests say, and who each suits. The SUP/kayak paddle reviews are honest about how intense it can be; the Wildlife Adventure reviews highlight how funny and informative the guides are. Start with the most-booked SUP paddle if you want water immersion, or the Ultimate if you want a gentler balance.
Can’t make these dates?
Browse more available Raccoon Island Miami tour and find one that fits your schedule — all with instant confirmation and free cancellation.
Still deciding? Read all tour options compared, what tours actually cost, the best time to go, or whether Raccoon Island is worth visiting.
Frequently asked questions
How many Raccoon Island tours are there?
Six core tours, all rated 4.6 or higher. Two are paddling-focused (SUP/kayak); three are boat-based (one combines boat + kayak); one is private group. All bookable with free cancellation.
What’s the main difference between paddle and boat tours?
Paddle tours put you on a SUP or kayak for ~3 hours and you get close to the raccoons by paddling there. Boat tours cruise out and anchor or pass nearby. Paddle tours cost $74–$99; boat tours $74–$140. Both see raccoons and wildlife reliably.
Which tour should I book?
Start with your tolerance for water. If you want to paddle, the $99 SUP & Kayak Paddle is most booked (4.7 stars, 1,478 reviews). If you want a boat, the $84 Wildlife Adventure is rated highest (4.9 stars). If budget is priority, the $74 Ultimate Boat Tour includes a kayak leg.
Can I book the same day?
Sometimes, but popular tours sell out in peak season. Booking a day or two ahead through GetYourGuide locks in your spot with free cancellation on most tours.
Do I need swimming ability to do a Raccoon Island tour?
For paddle tours, moderate fitness is helpful (you’re paddling for hours). For boat tours, no swimming required; you float on mats or swim if you choose. Wear water shoes and bring reef-safe sunscreen.