The HuntFishTravel Show

I’ve never been kayaking.

And here I was gliding quietly through winding mangrove tunnels, spotting feeding dolphins and trying to keep up with a dude on a stand-up paddle board.

Honestly, one of the most unforgettable experiences on our trip to the Punta Gorda/Englewood area was the kayak tour with SUP Englewood, and it’s something you won’t want to miss if you ever visit the area.

Our adventure began at Don Pedro Island State Park, a true hidden gem nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Known for its serene beauty and abundant wildlife, this park is one of the best-kept secrets in the Punta Gorda and Englewood area. The CVB booked our trip with SUP Englewood’s eco-tours, and I was excited to give it a shot.

The check in was easy, our guide, Danny, met us at the state park land base where the tour begins. He greeted us with a warm smile, shared some safety tips, and walked us through what to expect. Both Aaron and I opted for single kayaks, while Danny paddled alongside us, ensuring we had the best possible experience. Armed with our GoPros (our phones stayed safely in the car), we were ready to explore.

We pushed off from the launch and found ourselves gliding into the calm waters of Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve. Surrounded by mangroves, the air felt thick with the scent of salt and fresh earth. Almost immediately, Danny’s sharp eye caught sight of dolphins fishing nearby. We paused, mesmerized, as they gracefully surfaced and dove, their dorsal fins slicing through the water just a few yards away. It felt like nature had given us a private show.

Throughout our journey, Danny kept us informed about the eco-system around us. He explained how mangroves play a vital role in protecting Florida’s coastlines and providing shelter for marine life. He pointed out iguanas lounging lazily on warm rocks, he explained how they were an invasive species that were incredibly destructive and shared that there was  even an established hunting season for them.

A highlight of the trip was spotting a pair of ospreys perched high atop a pylon in a carefully built nesting box. Danny shared how Florida has invested in constructing these nesting platforms to protect the osprey population. Seeing the eggs nestled securely in the nest brought a whole new appreciation for these conservation efforts.

Our journey continued as Danny guided us through narrow mangrove tunnels, where the branches twisted above us like a living canopy. The stillness in these canals was magical, as if we had stepped into another world. The only sounds were the occasional splash of our paddles and the rustling of leaves as iguanas scurried from branch to branch.

Eventually, Danny led us to a secluded island accessible only by boat. Although public, the island also hosts several vacation homes, making it feel like a secret getaway. We pulled our kayaks ashore and spent time walking along the sandy beaches, feeling like we had stumbled upon a slice of paradise. Danny explained the importance of keeping these delicate ecosystems protected and how SUP Englewood actively supports conservation efforts in the area.

If you’re planning a trip to the Punta Gorda or Englewood area, here are a few key details to know about Don Pedro Island State Park and SUP Englewood’s tours:

• Park Entrance Fee: $3 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Kayak Tour Duration: 2-3 hours
• Recommended Gear: Sunscreen, hat, water shoes, and a camera (or a GoPro if you’re worried about water damage)
• Wildlife to Expect: Dolphins, iguanas, ospreys, and various migratory birds (manatees are sometimes seen, but we didn’t spot any on our tour)

SUP Englewood excels in creating intimate, eco-focused tours that balance relaxation with education. Danny’s knowledge of the area and his passion for conservation made the experience even more rewarding.

While we captured footage with our GoPros, Danny was thoughtful enough to snap several photos of us throughout the trip, which was incredibly appreciated. If you’re worried about missing those picture-perfect moments, don’t stress; your guide has you covered.

We wholeheartedly give SUP Englewood five stars. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a complete beginner, this tour is an incredible way to explore Don Pedro Island and its surrounding waters. The combination of peaceful paddling, unique wildlife encounters, and insightful environmental education makes it an experience you won’t forget.

If you want to see our kayak adventure in action, keep an eye on the HuntFishTravel YouTube channel. Plus, I’ll be sharing even more travel tips and stories from Punta Gorda and Manasota Key, so subscribe to stay updated!