A raccoon encounter on a paddle trip? Yes. This 3-hour outing pairs Biscayne Bay paddling with a relaxed visit to Sandspur Island, where wild but gentle raccoons hang around for photos.

I love the mix of calm nature time and wildlife-focused moments, especially the chance to stop and watch the animals instead of rushing past them. Two other standouts for me are the included life jacket + gear (kayak or SUP) and the included fresh fruit and drinks that keep the vibe easy.

One thing to consider: the tour includes water time and can get wet, and the raccoon activity can vary by conditions—so pack for comfort more than for perfect spotting.

Quick hits before you book

• Kayak or SUP choice so you can pick what feels easiest
• Sandspur Island / Raccoon Island with time to explore, swim, and take photos
• Fruit and drinks included, including beer/hard seltzers for adults who want them
• Mangrove and island paddling around South Florida ecosystems with a guide’s route
• Small-moment photography where pausing to watch wildlife is part of the plan

How this Raccoon Island paddle tour works in real life

This is a North Miami Beach water tour built around two different ways to experience the same place: first, you paddle through mangroves and islands; then you get time at Sandspur Island, often called Raccoon Island for the raccoons you can see up close.

The overall rhythm is simple: meet at the marina, get a safety rundown, get on your kayak or SUP, paddle the route with your guide, then transfer by boat to the island for wildlife time. There’s no sense of racing from stop to stop. That matters, because a wildlife-focused outing works best when you’re not counting minutes every 30 seconds.

I also like that this tour doesn’t pretend you’re doing a hardcore workout. You’re outside, you’re moving, and you’re taking in the scenery. Most of the fun is in the moments: wildlife sightings, the feel of the water, and the relaxed island break.

Arriving at Bill Bird Marina (and finding slip E-22)

Your start point is Bill Bird Marina in North Miami Beach. The instructions are very specific: arrive early, find the blue building in front of the water, then turn left and walk down the dock past Kellys Fishing Fleet. The staff will be checking people in at a tiki boat in slip E-22, at a table with an umbrella.

Here’s the practical part: the tour asks you to arrive 30 minutes early. I’d treat that as a real requirement, not a suggestion. You’ll want time to park, walk the dock, sign the required waivers, and get outfitted without feeling rushed.

Also note the tour ends back at the meeting point, so you won’t need to plan a separate pickup later.

Gear and safety: life jacket, kayak or SUP, and wet-weather prep

After you check in, you’ll meet your guide and get safety instructions and a route overview. Then you put on your life jacket and head out on either a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP).

This choice is more important than it sounds. Kayaks tend to feel steady and beginner-friendly, while SUPs ask a bit more balance. Either way, you’ll still get the guided route and the wildlife timing that makes this tour special.

What I’d plan for right away: wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet. You can store anything you don’t want to get wet in a safe location while you’re on the water. That’s a relief if you’re bringing a phone—still use a waterproof bag if you have one, but at least you’re not forced to choose between safety and photos.

One extra tip from what people say: sunscreen matters. You’ll be out for a few hours on bright Florida water, and the combo of sun + wind can sneak up on you.

Paddling in Oleta State River Park and the Biscayne Bay ecosystem

The tour includes entry to Oleta State River Park, and that helps explain why the paddle portion feels like more than just transportation. You’re not only going from point A to point B. You’re moving through South Florida ecosystems at a human pace—slow enough to notice birds, crabs, and mangrove edges, and guided enough that you’re not guessing where to aim your kayak.

On the water, you’ll paddle around islands and get the chance to learn about what you’re seeing. The guide’s role isn’t just to point forward—it’s to explain the environment you’re gliding through and to help your group stay together.

In the same way that a good walking tour teaches you how to look, a good paddle guide teaches you what to notice: mangroves, crabs, and the little bits of coastal life that don’t always register when you’re driving past.

Also, wind can happen on Biscayne Bay. If it’s breezy, your guide and your group will manage it together. People have done the route on windy days, but you’ll feel it more if you’re on a first paddle. So if this is your first time, go in ready to take it slow, listen to the guide, and keep your breathing steady.

The boat ride to Sandspur Island: the easy middle of the day

After the paddling portion, you’ll take a boat ride to Sandspur Island (Raccoon Island). This transfer is part of the fun because it breaks up the effort and gives you a chance to reset.

This is also when the tour’s included refreshments kick in. Drinks and fresh fruit are provided for you to enjoy along the ride. The drinks are included and free, and the alcohol mentioned is beer and hard seltzers, with water also available. You can drink responsibly, but the emphasis is on keeping it a relaxed experience, not turning it into a party contest.

Another practical thing: this is one of the times where you can look around and spot dolphins if the day gives you that kind of luck. The tour doesn’t promise it in the details you provided, but some past outings describe seeing dolphins during transport, which is a nice bonus when it happens.

Sandspur Island time: raccoon photos, swimming, and short trails

Once you arrive, the big draw is Sandspur Island and its friendly, docile raccoons. You’ll get time to explore the island, swim, and take pictures of the animals.

The way I’d frame it: this isn’t a zoo. You’re sharing a coastal island with wildlife that lives there. That’s what makes the experience feel personal. You’re not just observing—you’re pausing to watch how they move through their environment.

If you want photos, plan to stay flexible. Wildlife photography on an island is never perfectly scheduled. Instead, focus on being present and watching your guide’s cues about where animals are active and when it’s a good moment to take a shot.

What about feeding? The tour includes fruit for you, and people mention feeding raccoons melon. I’d still follow the guide’s instructions closely about what to offer and when, because the goal is animal-safe interactions, not chaos.

Also, bring something for your feet. People recommend shoes for raccoon island because the trails can be rocky. If you go barefoot, you might end up with sore feet before you even get your best animal moments.

One consideration: raccoon sightings aren’t always guaranteed at every time slot. Some people have reported not seeing raccoons and being told they were relocated, while other groups see plenty. If your heart is set on lots of raccoons, pick your time carefully if the operator offers options—and set your expectations so you still enjoy the mangroves, crabs, and swimming even if the raccoons are quieter.

Drinks, fruit, and the relaxed pacing that makes it worth $99

At $99 per person, this tour isn’t just paying for transportation on water. You’re also paying for the guided experience, the use of kayak and SUP, life jackets, entry to Oleta State River Park, and the included fresh fruit and drinks.

That matters because you’d usually spend money separately for many of those pieces. Here, the value comes from how the day is assembled: water time + wildlife time + basic comforts that keep the outing from feeling like a bare-bones adventure.

The pricing also makes sense for the structure: you’re on the water for a few hours, you’re getting guided learning, and you’re getting time at the island where people take most of their photos. It’s a short day, but it doesn’t feel skimpy.

If you care about comfort, the included drinks help. If you care about nature, the paddling portion and island exploration are doing the heavy lifting. Either way, $99 feels like a reasonable buy when you factor in gear and included extras.

Who this paddle-and-raccoons tour fits best

This outing is a great match if you want wildlife without a long day of travel or a strict itinerary that keeps pushing you along.

I think it works especially well for:

• Couples and friends who want a fun “main activity” in a single morning or afternoon
• People who like nature, mangroves, and photo moments
• Anyone who wants a mix of paddle time and relaxed island time, with snacks handled

It might be less ideal if you’re allergic to wet clothing situations or you hate the idea of getting damp. Also, if you’re extremely dependent on seeing wildlife at a specific level, go in with a flexible mindset. The raccoons are often there, but conditions and animal movement can affect what you see.

Simple things to bring so the day stays fun

You can store dry items while you’re paddling, but you still need to show up prepared. Based on what’s emphasized, I’d plan around these basics:

• Clothes you don’t mind getting wet
• Sunscreen (and reapply if you’re out in the sun for long stretches)
• Shoes for rocky island trails
• A waterproof phone pouch if you want photos without stress

And if you’re choosing SUP, remember: a steady stance and relaxed arms will feel better than trying to muscle through. Let the guide set the pace and the rest will come together.

The guide makes a bigger difference than you’d think

The experience depends on the guide. You get safety instructions, a route overview, and help when you’re paddling or managing your group. People highlight guides such as Angie, Sean, Tony, Liam, CJ, Aaron, Ash, Alexandra, Alejandra, and Isabella as being friendly, informative, and helpful—especially when someone is new to kayaking.

That’s a big deal because first-timers can lose confidence fast on moving water. A good guide keeps the trip calm. They tow, adjust, and encourage instead of letting someone struggle alone.

Should you book Raccoon Island: Exploration on SUP/Kayak?

Book this tour if you want a relaxed South Florida kayak or SUP outing that includes wildlife time on Sandspur Island, plus fruit and drinks to keep the day comfortable. At $99 with gear and entry included, it also hits a strong value sweet spot.

Skip or choose another option if you hate getting wet, you need a guaranteed wildlife sighting every minute, or you dislike rocky trails even with shoes.

If you go in prepared with wet-weather gear and a flexible attitude about animal timing, you’ll likely have one of those rare trips where the best moments are small: a raccoon pausing to look back, the quiet feel of mangroves, and time that doesn’t feel rushed.

FAQ

How long is the Raccoon Island kayak/SUP tour?

The tour duration is listed as 3 hours.

How much does it cost?

The price is $99 per person.

Can I choose between a kayak and a stand-up paddleboard?

Yes. You have the option to choose a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard (SUP).

Where do I meet the guide?

Meet at Bill Bird Marina. You’ll see a blue building in front of the water, turn left, walk down the dock past Kellys Fishing Fleet, and find the tiki boat in slip E-22 with a check-in table under an umbrella.

What’s included with the tour?

Included items are the guide, entry to Oleta State River Park, use of kayak and SUP, life jacket, fresh fruit, and drinks.

What drinks and food are provided?

Fresh fruit is included. Drinks are included too, with beer, hard seltzers, and water available for you to drink responsibly.

Will we have time to swim and explore on the island?

Yes. You get time to explore Sandspur Island, swim, and take pictures of the raccoons.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet. If you have shoes, it’s a good idea because the island trails can be rocky. Sunscreen is also a smart bring.

Do I need to sign waivers?

Yes. All guests must sign FWC and SoFlo Water Adventures waivers before the tour.

Is there a cancellation policy?

Cancellation is listed as free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The important information also notes that there are no refunds for the event if it does not happen for reasons beyond control, but your ticket can be transferred to a future event.

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