Out on the Intracoastal Waterway off Lido Key, kayakers can expect calm, clear waters and some of the best wildlife viewing in Sarasota. As you paddle along the shoreline and across the flats, you’ll often see schools of fish moving beneath your kayak, sometimes scattering as you glide overhead. Dolphins are frequent visitors in this area, and it’s not uncommon to see them cruising through the channel, surfacing for air or playfully hunting in the shallows. Manatees also call these waters home, especially in warmer months, and you may spot one slowly rising to the surface for a breath before disappearing again below. Combined with wide-open views, gentle currents, and a peaceful coastal setting, this portion of the tour offers an unforgettable chance to experience Florida’s marine life up close in its natural habitat.