Dania Beach in 1 Day for Families - Guided kayak & paddleboard exploration of protected mangrove waterways
In Collaboration with Rio Santos. Updated on February 1, 2026.
Family-friendly guided kayak & paddleboard tour through the Dania Beach mangroves. Small groups (max 8), life vests for all ages, fresh fruit & drinks on the water, plus a complimentary instant photo souvenir. Suitable for kids 5+; toddlers may sit on laps free.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Rio Santos, inspired by the tour Fort Lauderdale: Kayak and Paddleboard Mangroves Eco Adventure. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided kayak & paddleboard exploration of protected mangrove waterways
- Wildlife spotting: shorebirds, fish, turtles — possible manatee sightings in season
- Included chilled fruit, non-alcoholic drinks and instant photo souvenir
- Small groups (up to 8) with kid-friendly gear and life vests
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-morning family eco paddle in the Dania Beach mangroves with check-in, safety briefing, 2-hour guided paddle, on-water snacks and instant photo. Optional nearby beachfront lunch after the tour.
Meet & check-in at the meeting point (arrive early)
Arrive, sign waiver, and get fitted for life vests. Street parking nearby; staff will direct you to the launch area. Arrive 20–30 minutes before the paddle start so kids have time to use restrooms and parents can prepare.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small dry bag for phones — organizers provide safe storage but a small bag keeps essentials handy.
- There is limited walking between parking and the launch; bring a stroller with good wheels if you need it (not required).
- Toddlers may sit on laps free — tell staff at check-in so they can reserve a two-person kayak if needed.
Safety briefing & gear fitting (short orientation)
Guides will run a family-friendly safety briefing covering paddling basics, life vest fit, shallow-water rules, and how to remain safe around wildlife. Quick demo for kids on how to sit and hold the paddle.
Tips from local experts:
- Kids under 10 will appreciate a short, simple demo — ask guides to show strokes slowly and let them try on land first.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen before leaving the shore — guides also carry sunscreen for touch-ups.
- Bathrooms: confirm the nearest public restroom at check-in; many families use them here before launch.
Guided Kayak & Paddleboard Mangrove Eco Adventure (main activity)
Two-hour guided paddle through calm mangrove channels. Guides share kid-friendly facts about mangrove ecology and wildlife; route focuses on sheltered waterways ideal for first-time paddlers and families. Life vests and all equipment provided.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring hats and sunglasses with cords — the guides recommend securing them because little hands like to grab interesting birds!
- If anyone in your group is a beginner, request a tandem kayak so an adult can paddle with a younger child.
- Keep expectations flexible — wildlife is wild; quieter paddling increases your chance to spot birds, crabs, turtles or (in season) manatees.
On-water snack & wildlife-spotting pause (included fruit & drinks)
Guides anchor in a calm, shaded spot for chilled sliced fruit and non-alcoholic drinks. Great moment for kids to rest, ask questions, and watch nearby birds and fish.
Tips from local experts:
- Portion kid-friendly snacks first — guides typically have small cups for little hands; ask for extra if needed.
- This is a good time to re-apply sunscreen; ask the guide for a wipe or towel for sticky fingers.
- If a child needs a break from sitting, the guide can safely hold a toddler on an adult's lap (policy: infants free on laps).
Return to shore, instant photo souvenir & debrief
Return paddle to launch, hand in gear, receive complimentary instant photo souvenir and quick debrief with FAQs about local ecology and family-friendly places nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- Collect your instant photo before you leave — it’s laminated for kids and makes a nice keepsake.
- Ask guides for a short list of family-friendly nearby beaches and playgrounds if you want to extend the morning.
- Check vehicles for wet shoes/gear — there is often a rinse-off hose near the launch to keep sand out of the car.
Optional family beachfront lunch (recommended)
Relax after the tour with a short drive to a family-friendly beachfront restaurant for casual lunch and playtime. Kid menus and high chairs available at the recommended spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a shaded outdoor table so kids can watch the beach while eating — call ahead on busy weekends to secure seating.
- Ask for the kid's menu and allergy-friendly options; most beachfront eateries in the area are used to families and adapt easily.
- Plan for a 10–20 minute drive and light parking fee depending on the beach; bring a change of clothes if kids want to play in the sand after eating.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Experience, Outdoor, Break, Restaurant |