About Gulf Coast Kayak

Discover the Soul of Kayaking in Cape Coral, FL

Since 1992, Gulf Coast Kayak has been Southwest Florida’s gateway to unforgettable eco adventures. Nestled in the colorful village of Cape Coral, FL, we offer more than just kayak rentals — we deliver meaningful experiences that connect people with nature, wildlife, and peace of mind.

Whether you’re exploring the mangrove tunnels, paddling through the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, or watching dolphins and manatees in the wild, every moment on the water is one to remember.

Top tripadvisor

Voted #1 Outdoor Activity and Top-Rated Tour in Cape Coral, Florida, on TripAdvisor!

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Guided Kayak Eco Tours in Cape Coral for Wildlife Lovers

Explore the mangrove tunnels and calm waters of Cape Coral Pass with our expert-led eco tours. Perfect for all skill levels, these guided adventures offer close encounters with manatees, dolphins, birds, and more — all in their natural habitat.

Choose from sunset paddles, wildlife tours, or full moon excursions, and discover the beauty and biodiversity of Southwest Florida from the water.

Connect with nature. Paddle with purpose.

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What We Offer: Kayak Rentals, Eco Tours, and Community Adventures

At Gulf Coast Kayak, we provide a variety of ways to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Coral in Florida, including:

  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals for all skill levels

  • Guided eco tours showcasing local wildlife and habitats

  • Fishing kayak rentals and fishing-focused adventures

  • Private group tours and customized paddling experiences

  • Educational programs and community events focused on conservation

Our goal is to make nature accessible, fun, and inspiring for everyone who visits.

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Why We Do What We Do

Our Mission

To provide Cape Coral locals and visitors with immersive kayak experiences that foster a deep connection to nature, promote environmental awareness, and celebrate the unique beauty of Southwest Florida’s waterways.

Our Vision

To be Cape Coral’s leading destination for eco-adventures—where every paddle inspires curiosity, community, and a lifelong respect for our coastal ecosystems.

What Drives Us: Passion, Sustainability, and Community Connection

At Gulf Coast Kayak, we believe that nature is more than a destination — it’s something we all share and are called to protect. Our work is guided by a deep passion for the outdoors, a commitment to sustainability, and a desire to connect people with the beauty of Cape Coral’s natural ecosystems.

Environmental Stewardship

Protecting the mangroves, wildlife, and waterways we call home.

Education & Awareness

Sharing knowledge about local ecosystems to inspire respect and responsibility.

Authentic Experiences

Creating meaningful adventures that go beyond tourism and deepen connection with nature.

Community Engagement

 Supporting local causes, hosting clean-up events, and welcoming every guest like a neighbor.

Adventure with Purpose

Helping people unplug, recharge, and discover something real — on the water and within themselves.

Meet the Gulf Coast Kayak Team: Passionate Guides, Local Experts

Our mission is to promote paddle sports safety and environmental stewardship through education and outreach.

Our Team enjoys introducing guests to the wonders of Matlacha Pass Aquatic preserve while fostering a love for conservation through their passion for ecology and environmental stewardship
Gulf Coast Kayak Staff 1

Bryan Stockbridge is co-owner of GCK. He’s a Level 2 ACA Certified Coastal Kayak Instructor, Florida Master Naturalist Coastal Systems graduate, Kayak Guide & H2O Kayak Adventure Camp Instructor. He has co-lead water safety, paddling & kayak fishing seminars and workshops for various Lee county non-profit organizations. Bryan is passionate about introducing the community to the sport of paddling through education, outreach, and stewardship. As our Community Outreach coordinator Bryan helps organize shoreline cleanups and habitat restoration projects such as Monofilament Madness and Mangrove Mania in partnership with Keep Lee County Beautiful. When not in the shop, you can find Bryan leading Eco Tours, Kayak Camp, Guided Kayak Fishing trips or on the water scouting for fish!

Gulf Coast Kayak Staff 2

Diana Stockbridge is co-owner of GCK, Level 2 ACA Certified Paddle Board Instructor and Florida Master Naturalist. She is our H2O Kayak Adventure Summer Camp Director, Instructor, Corporate Team Building and Paddling Events Coordinator. In partnership with The Great Calusa Blueway, Diana has helped organize and run the Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament since 2015 raising funds for charitable organizations such as the Candlelighters of South West Florida. When not on the water, Diana can be found leading 4th grade school field trips at the Randell Research Center in Pineland or planning our next event!

Gulf Coast Kayak Staff 3

Jim Niehaus ACA Certified Kayak and Paddle Board Instructor and Florida Master Naturalist is an active member and volunteer of Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife, Randall Research Center and the Florida Public Archaeology Network. In addition he has taken the lead in his community’s lakes watch program monitoring water quality, assessing watershed health and function, and screening for invasive aquatic plants and animals. He is an exceptional instructor, water man, and steward and often takes the lead on all of our conservation efforts as well as corporate team building and large group paddling events. As program coordinator for our H2O Kayak Adventure Camp Jim enjoys the dynamic and exciting opportunity of working with children and strongly believes in the importance of building a program that includes a solid foundation of paddling skills, water safety, ecology, and conservation!

What Our Guests Say: Real Experiences & Rave Reviews

Our guests’ stories speak for themselves. Discover honest feedback and heartfelt experiences from those who’ve paddled, explored, and connected with nature alongside us.

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Joe Briski profile picture
Joe Briski
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Great history of the area, birds and fish. Observed some great bird action. Eagle and Osprey fighting over a fish. Easy paddle route. Guide was great. Look forward to doing it again.
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Amy Swanson
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Outstanding guide and support staff. Thanks for a great experience!
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Nick Briski profile picture
Nick Briski
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We had the pleasure of booking a guided tour of the mangroves with Jim! This included both of my parents, my wife and I and 2 more individuals. For my wife and I this was our first kayak and mangrove experience. Before the tour began, Jim went over everything we would be doing and even asked each person what they were hoping to get out of the tour. Jim was very good about stopping along the way to explain and point out birds, trees, and anything and everything we all had questions on. Jim was great about checking on the group and making sure we kept up. He captured great pictures of us. Jim is very knowledgeable and was a perfect guide for our tour!! Highly recommend this tour and will definitely book again when in the Cape area!
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Joel W profile picture
Joel W
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My wife and I came to Cape Coral for a 2 week visit and as we were on a canal thought it would be fun to get kayaks. Gulf Coast were just the nicest people to work with. They delivered and picked up kayaks and all the gear when they said they would. The kayaks were well maintained. And the price was entirely reasonable. Next time we're in town we'll do one of their tours.
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Jeanne Maury profile picture
Jeanne Maury
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Nous avons passé un super moment en kayak en autonomie (des excursions guidées sont également possible) , dauphins et lamantins étaient au rendez-vous! Merci au guide (dont je n’ai pas le prénom) qui nous a expliqué et montré sur une carte nos différentes options de balade, et qui était plein de bons conseils! Je recommande
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Ceba Misenti
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Excellent experience
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Elizabeth di Grazia profile picture
Elizabeth di Grazia
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Very knowledgeable. Great paddle experience. 4 women. Two singles. One double kayak. Dolphins, birds, and more birds. Thanks for the great time.
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Bill profile picture
Bill
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Had a wonderful kayak trip through the mangroves. Jim is incredibly knowledgeable about this area and everything we were seeing. Highly recommended!!!
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Meghan C profile picture
Meghan C
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Had an amazing guided tour with Jim!! He was very informative, educational & friendly! My sister and I left learning lots of new things about the local marine animals & the surrounding area. We already can’t wait to book again for our next visit to Cape Coral.
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Jamie Micheletto profile picture
Jamie Micheletto
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Dan was an amazing fishing guide! Personable and so knowledgable! Thank you, Gulf Coast Kayak! We had a great trip!

Follow Us on Social Media for Kayak Life & Nature Adventures

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Get in Touch: Ready to Paddle with Gulf Coast Kayak?

Ready to start your adventure or have questions? We’re here to help! Contact Gulf Coast Kayak today to book your kayak rental, schedule a guided tour, or learn more about our services.
Call us, send a message, or stop by — we can’t wait to welcome you on the water!

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