Get Up & Go Kayaking-Tampa Bay Offers Travelers a New Way to Explore Shell Key After Dark
Glow Tours offer a new perspective on exploring Shell Key Preserve after the sun goes down
TIERRA VERDE, FL — For travelers looking beyond traditional sightseeing, some of Florida’s most memorable experiences happen after dark. At Shell Key Preserve, Get Up And Go Kayaking – Tampa Bay offers a different way to experience the Gulf Coast: a nighttime clear kayak adventure illuminated from below.
The 1.5-hour guided tour begins around sunset, giving guests the opportunity to watch the sky change over Shell Key before continuing into the evening. Once darkness falls, LED lights in the 100% clear kayaks illuminate the water, creating an unusual window into the coastal ecosystem below.
The experience offers travelers a different way to explore one of Tampa Bay’s natural attractions without the crowds and activity that typically come with a daytime beach excursion.
As interest in immersive, nature-based and after-dark travel experiences continues to grow, the Glow Tour offers an unexpected addition to a Tampa Bay itinerary. Rather than simply viewing the preserve, guests spend the evening paddling through it, listening to the sounds of the water and watching for activity beneath their glowing kayaks. “Travelers are increasingly looking beyond traditional daytime activities and seeking experiences that feel more immersive after dark,” says location owner Amber Buzzi. “The Glow Tour is a natural fit; it gives guests the chance to experience Shell Key after sunset and discover a completely different side of Florida’s coastline.”
The route can include a hidden mangrove tunnel, where the illuminated kayaks create an especially unique nighttime experience. Guests may also see fish jumping as dusk settles in and observe seagrass and other wildlife beneath the clear kayaks.
With a maximum of 10 guests per tour, the experience maintains a small-group atmosphere. No previous kayaking experience is required, and guides lead guests throughout the excursion while sharing information about the preserve and its ecosystem.
The Shell Key Preserve Glow Tour departs from Billy’s Stone Crab in Tierra Verde and is available for guests ages 12 and older. For travelers looking to experience Tampa Bay beyond the traditional beach day, the answer may be as simple as waiting for the sun to go down.
About Get Up & Go Kayaking- Tampa Bay
Get Up And Go Kayaking – Tampa Bay operates guided clear kayak tours and experiences across Pinellas County, Florida, including locations at Shell Key Preserve (Tierra Verde), Tarpon Springs, and Clearwater. Known for its signature clear kayaks and knowledgeable tour guides, the company offers guests an up-close look at Florida’s marine life and coastal ecosystems through guided, small-group tours.