Raccoon Island SUP & Kayak Wildlife Paddle review
What the tour is like
You meet at a Miami or North Miami marina, get fitted with a life vest, and board a SUP or kayak. The guide leads the group on a paddled route across Biscayne Bay, navigating through the water toward the island. The paddle itself is a few hundred metres once you’re on the water. A support boat follows; if you get tired, they can ferry you partway. When you reach the island, you paddle in close to shore where the raccoons gather — Sabrina got to see many raccoons, Anna’s 9-year-old daughter loved it. Michaela noted you need water shoes; the sandy bottom is rough and you will get wet. Man Kwok booked a 3pm start, found it hot, and praised the support boat for the ferry option. You float, take photos, and paddle back. By the end, you feel the paddling but your shoulders know the workout was worth it.
What works
- You get into the water and see the raccoons up close from your SUP or kayak
- Most-booked with 1,478 reviews means proven consistency; this tour works reliably
- Support boat means tired paddlers don’t struggle the whole way
- Anna’s daughter loved it; kids handle this well if comfortable in water
- Michaela stressed you need good water shoes; guides are clear on prep
- Raccoons are visible at the waterline — wildlife encounter is real
- Afternoon starts are hotter; Kwok noted the sun exposure
Worth knowing
- You will get wet — this is not a dry tour. Bring water shoes or expect rough feet
- Open water paddling means sun exposure; sunscreen is mandatory, not optional
- Afternoon slots run hot; book morning if you can’t handle midday heat
- Not the cheapest; the $74 Ultimate tour is more affordable
- Paddling fitness needed; not ideal if you haven’t paddled before
- Sabrina mentioned hand-feeding raccoons; we advise against it. Raccoons are wild animals
Book a morning slot in November through May when the bay is calmer and the sun isn’t brutal. Bring reef-safe sunscreen — corals matter. Wear water shoes or old shoes you don’t mind losing grip on. Bring water; paddling is work. Don’t feed or touch the raccoons — they’re wild, and bites carry rabies risk.
Who it’s for
Paddlers who want to be in the water. Couples and families with kids comfortable paddling. Photographers who want close wildlife shots. Anyone who wants to earn their island views with paddles and arms.Not for you if: you don’t want to get wet or paddle. See the Celebrity Mansions boat tour for a dry ride. Want cheaper? Try the Ultimate Biscayne tour at $74. Learn more in the complete guide.
Other tours to consider
Top ratedRaccoon Island Adventure: Wildlife, Island Walk & Floats
Best valueBiscayne Bay Ultimate Boat Tour with Kayak Experience
PrivatePrivate Sandbar, Billionaire's Row & Raccoon Island Tour
Frequently asked questions
Is $99 worth it for a 3-hour paddle?
For most paddlers, yes. 1,478 reviews and a 4.7 rating prove this tour delivers. You get in the water, see the raccoons, and paddle in open bay. If you want to save $25, the Ultimate Biscayne is $74 for boat plus a kayak leg.
Will I be exhausted after paddling?
Not if you’re a regular paddler. You paddle a few hundred metres and have a support boat for ferry-backs. Michaela said you need water shoes and fitness, but it’s doable. If you’re not confident paddling, book the boat tours instead.
Do I really need water shoes?
Yes. Michaela said come prepared. The sandy bottom is rough, and you will step on shell bits. Water shoes or old shoes you don’t mind are essential.
Can kids paddle this?
Yes. Anna’s 9-year-old loved it. Kids need to be comfortable in water and able to stay on a paddle board or in a kayak. The support boat means backup if they get tired.
Can I feed the raccoons?
Don’t. Sabrina mentioned hand-feeding; it’s tempting but dangerous. Wild raccoons bite and scratch, which can transmit rabies. Keep food sealed and keep distance.