Key West’s mangroves are a critical part of the area’s ecosystem. For those unfamiliar, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration defines mangroves as “trees and shrubs that have adapted to life in a saltwater environment.” You’ll recognize them by their long, tangled roots that plunge below the water’s surface.
Key West’s mangroves help reduce erosion and create an environment perfect for fostering birds, marine life, and land animals. The best way to explore Key West’s mangroves is by kayaking. Kayaking allows paddlers to get up close and personal with Key West’s mangroves, making for an incredibly unique and exciting experience.
Planning a Mangrove Kayaking Excursion in Key West
If you want to explore the mangroves of Key West, you’ve come to the right place; the team at Compass Realty has created a guide that will help you plan your excursion. Read on for our tips for planning your kayaking adventure.
Kayaking Key West: Tours or Self Guided?
Before paddling the mangroves, you’ll need to decide if you want to explore on your own or take a tour. Key West is home to several companies that will take you through the mangroves and provide commentary on their significance. If you decide to take a tour, we recommend Key West Eco Tours; their guided paddle tour will let you witness the beauty of the mangrove ecosystem in small groups, allowing for a more personal experience.
If you’d prefer to embark on your own, be sure to bring your kayak if you have one. Don’t have your own? No worries, kayak rentals are all over Key West. Whether you want to rent for a few hours or several days, you’ll be able to find a rental company that can accommodate your needs.
What to Bring
Before you set off on your mangrove kayaking adventure, be fully prepared for your time out on the tranquil waters of Key West. You’ll probably be in the sun for a while, so sunscreen is a necessity. We recommend sunglasses and hats to help keep the sun out of your eyes. If you don’t like feeling wet, bring a tour as well, there’s a decent chance you’ll get wet on your journey. Finally, don’t forget a camera! You’ll surely want to capture pictures of this gorgeous place.
Find the Home Base for Your Stay in Key West
Kayaking through Key West’s mangroves is just one of the many exciting things you can experience in this idyllic paradise. To experience all that Key West has to offer, browse Compass Realty’s collection of vacation rentals. We offer a wide range of lodging in great locations like Old Town Key West, Truman Annex, and more. Please book online or give us a call at 305-292-1881 for more information.
