The Suncoast of Florida is known for its white sand beaches and sparkling blue waters, but tucked away beyond the shoreline lies a hidden gem you might not expect: the mangrove tunnels of Lido Key.

Winding through a dense canopy of trees, these tunnels feel like a secret passage into another world. They were originally man-made, carved out decades ago to improve water circulation and reduce mosquito populations. Over time, nature took over, transforming them into a thriving sanctuary for wildlife and a peaceful escape for paddlers.

Today, these tranquil waterways play a crucial role in the local ecosystem, offering shelter and nursery grounds for countless marine species.

When I set out to explore the tunnels, I was joined by Greg Gregory, founder of Kayaking SRQ, who knows these waters like the back of his hand.

“Most words I hear are magical, peaceful, relaxing—sometimes chaotic,” Greg told me with a grin. “It really just depends on the time of year. But most people walk away feeling completely awestruck.”

Greg and his wife, Kim, launched Kayaking SRQ in 2017 with a simple mission: to help people connect with the Suncoast’s natural beauty.

What makes the mangrove tours so unique is the variety of environments. The journey starts out on open water, offering wide, unobstructed views of the Gulf, and then — just when you think you’ve seen it all — you slip into the cool, shaded mangrove trails. It feels like entering a secret forest by kayak.

After I got the hang of paddling on my own, Greg guided me into one of the hidden tunnel entrances. The mangroves arched gracefully overhead, their roots dipping into the glassy water. The canopy offered a welcome break from the Florida sun, and the sounds of city life faded into complete calm.

Before the trip, Greg gave me a heads-up about the tiny black crabs that skitter along the mangrove roots (completely harmless!), and sure enough, we spotted a few along the way. We also glided past hundreds of oysters growing along the tree roots, a reminder of the delicate balance this ecosystem supports.

On our way back to open water, another guide waved us down—there was a manatee nearby. The glare made it hard to see, but then, there he was: a gentle giant surfacing for a breath before vanishing again below. It was a moment I won’t forget.

Since moving to the Suncoast, seeing a manatee had been at the top of my bucket list. Kayaking SRQ helped make that dream a reality.

In addition to mangrove tours, Kayaking SRQ offers excursions from both Lido and Siesta Beaches, including paddleboard tours, kayak fishing, and more.

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