Things to do in Bradenton, Florida

Embark on a manatee discovery tour around Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. Encounter these gentle giants of the sea in their natural habitat with an eco-guide leading the way. Receive all the kayaking gear you need and expert instruction for a safe adventure on the water. Join an immersive journey into the pristine waters surrounding Anna Maria Island and Bradenton for the unique opportunity to observe and appreciate these magnificent creatures up close. Your guides will share insights into the manatee's behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts. Learn about the history of the area while surrounded by the natural scenery of Florida. Don't miss the chance to connect with nature and create lasting memories on a tour that celebrates the beauty and importance of manatees in our aquatic ecosystems. Please note that we use tandem kayaks. If there is a solo customer or odd numbered group we will set up one single kayak to accommodate. Please call with any questions or requests.

Embark on an exhilarating kayaking adventure as you paddle through the breathtaking waters surrounding Anna Maria Island and Bradenton during the golden sunset hours. Enjoy an intimate small-group kayak eco-tour spanning 2 hours, and have an extraordinary encounter with wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Witness these majestic creatures up close while your knowledgeable tour guides share fascinating insights about the area and its diverse wildlife. Navigate the tranquil waters and be prepared to be captivated not only by dolphins but also by the abundance of native bird species inhabiting the nearby islands. Your journey will become an immersive experience, guided by seasoned experts who provide in-depth information and even capture memorable moments with photos. Amidst the rhythmic paddling and dolphin sightings, savor the unparalleled beauty of one of Manatee County's most stunning sunsets, creating an unforgettable backdrop to your kayaking adventure. Please note that we use tandem kayaks. If there is a solo customer or odd numbered group we will set up one single kayak to accommodate. Please call with any questions or requests.

Parasail with us for breathtaking views including Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, the Tampa Skybridge, and the Gulf of Mexico. Watch below for dolphins, stingrays, and other ocean life through crystal clear water. We offer Tandem or triple flights. Toe dips included upon request! Flight times are 8 to 10 minutes with the whole boat trip being approximately 1 hour. Parasailing is fun and safe for all the family, we can take children as young as 5 Years old (when accompanied by an adult). NO experience needed, we take care of everything, you just sit back, relax and enjoy. If you want to take a souvenir home to remember your adventure we offer both Photo packages and video packages.

Choose from a range of ticket options and take part in a combination of thrilling outdoor activities. Soar through the air on ziplines after climbing to great heights on an action-packed day perfect for the whole family. Adventure Ticket: Purchase an adventure ticket for climbers who can reach to 5ft 9inches with one hand and with feet flat on the ground. Gain access to all 5 courses, including the Extreme Lead, Summit Courses, and the giant Triumph Zipline. This ticket takes approximately 3.5 to 4-hours to complete. Climbers must be able to reach to 5 ft 9 inches with 1 hand overhead and both feet flat on ground. Ape Up: This option is for climbers 5 to 8-years old. Gain access to the Ape Up course with three trips through. It is recommended that all 5 and 6 year old climbers or older climbers who may become scared while climbing to have a parent (who weighs 225 pounds or less) purchase an Ape Up ticket to climb with them. This ticket takes approximately 1-hour to complete. There is no reach requirement for this ticket.

Cruise the Manatee River and Lower Tampa Bay on the River Skipper II, the largest tiki boat in Florida. Enjoy a relaxing day downriver or party on a sunset cruise with the option to bring your own food and drink aboard. On the day trips, we motor down the Manatee River and Lower Tampa Bay. Relax while gazing at historical sights and local wildlife while lounging on comfortable, uniquely arranged, padded seating with enough room for plenty of sightseeing along the way. In the evenings, we party heartily on a sunset cruise with some of the best music ever created by the human imagination, where we have enough room to dance like there is no tomorrow. And just like the day tours, you can bring your favorite food and drink aboard to make your trip more personalized. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife while cruising the local waters of the majestic Manatee River and Lower Tampa Bay. There is plenty to see, and we have a good time while we're underway.

Experience a slice of heaven and come with us on a journey to explore the famous Robinson Preserve as we traverse the calm and peaceful waterways through the mangroves on our sit-on-top kayaks. The abundance and variety of native birds, fish, and other wildlife here will leave you awestruck as you meander around every corner of the preserve. On occasion we also see manatees here. During our journey we often land the kayaks and present the option to walk up a giant observation tower to get a bird’s eye view of the preserve and surrounding area to take some photos. Your guide will provide you with many amazing facts about the area and the wildlife you encounter on this 2 hour kayak tour. Please note that we use tandem kayaks. If there is a solo customer or odd numbered group we will set up one single kayak to accommodate. Please call with any questions or requests.

Wow, this tour has it all! Join us on a kayak adventure to a stunning island oasis where the sandbars are teeming with all sorts of amazing marine life. Get ready to have the opportunity to spot fish, sand dollars, starfish, conchs, crabs, and other unique critters. Along the way, we might even get a chance to see dolphins and manatees, who love visiting this area. Once we arrive, we'll kayak around the shallow waters and give you the option to snorkel and witness the incredible marine life just beneath the surface. And don't forget, this spot is a treasure trove for beautiful shells too! This tour is perfect for adventurous paddlers like you and lasts 2.5 hours. It's going to be an unforgettable experience! Please note that we use tandem kayaks. If there is a solo customer or odd numbered group we will set up one single kayak to accommodate. Please call with any questions or requests.

Explore haunted Palmetto, Florida on the Palmetto Ghost and Haunted History Tour—an unforgettable evening perfect for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts. Join experienced Paranormal Investigator Ginger Mason as she guides you through historic downtown Palmetto, revealing chilling ghost stories and local legends. Visit haunted landmarks including the Palmetto Historical Park, the Great Chime Bell, Riverside Bed & Breakfast, and the J.A. Lamb House. Use real ghost-hunting equipment as you search for signs of the supernatural—maybe even an encounter with the infamous spirit of Pistol Pete! A must-do for thrill-seekers and curious minds.

Are you ready to fly?! Come parasail high above the coast and get an exciting bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscape that will leave you breathless – and with plenty of memories to take back home! Under the leadership of our professional crew, your journey will begin with the Captain Matt giving you a safety speech and an overview of parasailing procedures while headed out. The journey to the parasailing grounds takes approximately 10 minutes. Once we reach the flying area, either off Coquina Beach in the Gulf of Mexico, or by the north end of Anna Maria Island in Tampa Bay, the crew will inflate the parachute and send you up and away! Our parasailing adventures include: - Professional crew with years of experience & perfect safety record. - High quality photo packages that are available for purchase onboard including a GoPro package! Don’t forget to ask Captain Jared! - Free parking at Bradenton Beach Marina. Our flights offer: - Tandem & triple flights. - Top notch equipment that is maintained impeccably - Dip your toes in the water when the captain brings you close to the water! 8 to 10 minutes of peaceful & soundless time in the air. - Maximum weight varies based on conditions, but 450-500 is the normal maximum. - Amazing views including Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, the Tampa Skybridge, and the Gulf of Mexico. A few things to keep in mind while planning your trip: - You are welcome to bring sunglasses, towel, bag, & cellphone on your trip! - Traffic to & on the island can be challenging! Please plan accordingly to arrive 20-25 minutes ahead of time. Our boat does leave on scheduled times! - All participants are required to complete a waiver before your trip. Please complete this ahead of time! The waiver link will be in the confirmation email as well texted to the phone number entered into the booking. - Please keep in mind that our crews are in the local tourism & service industry and rely heavily on gratuity from customers! All bookings within 24 hours are final. Should the trip be delayed or postponed due to weather, guests will be able to rebook their trip or receive a credit for the full amount that can be used at anytime in the future.

Captain Mike and his first mate will greet you at the dock. You'll step aboard our 2024 Sportsman 232, featuring a stylish teal exterior and a white interior (please remember to take off your shoes before boarding). Once on board, we’ll set off to explore the bay, fishing in prime spots like Siesta Key, Sarasota, Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, and beyond. If you want a guide who fishes daily and knows the best locations to find fish, Captain Mike with Calibrated Fishing Charters is your top choice. He prioritizes not only your success in catching plenty of fish but also the safety of you and your family at all times.