Ride and Paddle at The Bay (Guided Kayak Tour)

Experience The Bay from the water! Explore the restored mangroves and other flora and fauna of The Bay on this free, intermediate-level guided kayak tour led by one of Ride & Paddle’s expert guides (a $60 value!).

Please refrain from registering for multiple dates to ensure there is enough space to accommodate everyone interested.

Due to popular demand for free guided tours, registrations are accepted only four weeks in advance.

Event sold out? Please consider the following options:

• Check back online closer to the event to see if cancellations result in openings.
• Stop by the Kayak Launch before the start of the scheduled Free Kayak Tour to see if there are any “no-shows".
• Prefer to explore The Bay your own way? Ride & Paddle rentals are available. To reserve, visit: http://www.rideandpaddlethebay.com/

Important Information

• Age Requirements: This ride is only recommended for children 12 years and older. All minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Kayaks and life jackets are provided.
• Where to Meet: Please go to The Bay’s ADA-accessible kayak and paddle launch located at the south-east edge of the bayou near the corner of Van Wezel Way and Blvd of the Arts.

IF YOUR PLANS CHANGE: Space is very limited and due to popular demand, there is a growing waitlist. As a courtesy to other park guests, please quickly cancel your Eventbrite reservation if you are no longer able to attend so your spot can be released to someone else.

Ride & Paddle is presented by the Amy P. Goldman Foundation.

Know Before You Go:

• Free parking is located around the site and all parking lots remain open — along Blvd of the Arts and in front of the Van Wezel, Municipal Auditorium and Blue Pagoda. Please avoid parking in designated Sarasota Orchestra parking areas.
• Construction of the new Town Square (located between the Municipal Auditorium and Art Center) is underway and affects pedestrian routes between the parking lot along N. Tamiami Trail and venues west of Van Wezel Way (incl. The Bay park, Van Wezel, and Holley Hall). Signs are posted to direct you between these locations. Please allow extra time to walk from and to your vehicle. Click here to view recommended pedestrian routes. Click here to learn more about Phase 2 of The Bay.
• All pets must be non-aggressive and on a leash at all times. Owners are expected to pick up after their pets.
• Please report any risky or unsafe behavior to the Sarasota Non-Emergency Police 24 hours a day (941) 316-1199.

Show The Park You Love... Some Love!

Friends of The Bay help support the many beloved offerings in this "One Park For All". Your Friendship helps meticulously maintain acres of greenspace and ensures that dozens of high-quality events remain FREE for everyone to enjoy. to become a Friend of The Bay or renew your Friendship today.

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Host or Publisher The Bay Park Conservancy