Raccoon Island Adventure: Wildlife, Island Walk & Floats review
What the tour is like
You board a boat and cruise out to the island — a short ride from the marina. Once there, you wade ashore and walk the shoreline where the raccoons hang out. They’re bold and visible; you see them regularly. Jess praised guides Zoe and Alex for being funny and informative, and most importantly, safety-focused. Danielle said the guides were humorous and kept everyone safe. matthew said his guides were excellent and recommended the tour strongly. The group then uses floating mats to bob in the water near the island while the guide talks about the raccoons, the bay, dolphins, and manatees you might spot. The boat ride back is relaxed. By the end, you’ve seen the raccoons, learned about the island, and stayed mostly dry — your shoes are wet but your clothes are mostly fine.
What works
- 4.9 rating is exceptional; only 558 reviews but all high
- Guides Zoe and Alex praised for being funny and knowledgeable
- Jess, Danielle, and matthew all said the guides prioritized safety
- Island walk means you see the raccoons at close range on land
- Floating mats let you bob and observe without paddling
- 4 hours is a full morning or afternoon commitment with real pacing
- You stay mostly dry; great for those who don’t want to paddle
- Informative commentary on raccoons, dolphins, manatees, and bay ecology
Worth knowing
- 4 hours is longer than some tours; time-intensive
- Floating mats are passive; no paddling or swimming
- Lunch not included; eat before or after
- Popular slots sell out in peak season; book early
- Not the cheapest option; the $74 Ultimate tour is cheaper
Book this if you want the best-rated Raccoon Island experience. Book mornings in May, November, or December when the bay is calmest and wildlife is active. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat — floating mats offer no shade. Bring water and binoculars for better dolphin and manatee sightings. The guides do the heavy lifting; relax and observe.
Who it’s for
Wildlife watchers who want to see raccoons reliably. Families and older travellers who don’t want to paddle or swim. First-time island visitors. Couples who value safety and guide expertise.Not for you if: you want to paddle or maximize water time. See the SUP & Kayak tour for paddling. Want cheaper? Try the Ultimate Biscayne at $74. Learn more in the complete guide.
Other tours to consider
Most booked
Best valueBiscayne Bay Ultimate Boat Tour with Kayak Experience
Boat cruiseMiami Beach Boat Tour: Celebrity Mansions & Raccoon Island
Frequently asked questions
Why is this rated 4.9?
Because Jess, Danielle, and matthew all got exactly what they came for: funny guides, informative commentary, safe handling, and raccoons. 558 reviews at 4.9 means consistency. It’s the highest-rated tour on the island.
Do I really see raccoons?
Yes, reliably. You walk the island shore where they gather. They’re bold because there are no predators on the island. Jess saw lots of raccoons. That’s the whole point.
What if I want to swim?
You can float on the mats or wade, but this isn’t a swimming-focused tour. The Private Sandbar tour includes sandbar swimming if that’s your goal.
How long are 4 hours?
Boat ride out (~30 min), island walk and commentary (~1.5 hrs), floating mat section (~1 hr), boat ride back (~30 min). It’s a full morning or afternoon.
Do dolphins and manatees show up?
Often seen, never guaranteed. They’re in Biscayne Bay and pass nearby, but wildlife is unpredictable. The guides know where to look.