#coastal wildlife

[marcalanpen-blog]

Seals at Horsey Beach, Norfolk in November 2023. Norfolk sees thousands of seals born on its coast near Horsey each year during the months of November and December.

[desertmountainapothecary]

Learn About Nurseries of the Marine World in the La Jolla Peninsula & Torrey Pines State Reserve! Bird Life, Aquatic Marine Species, Baby animals, Ospreys, Whales, Dolphins, and the beautiful turquoise teal blue Pacific Ocean: Live Now On YouTube!

[mossfroot]

Sea Thrift Armeria maritima

[docileeffects]

[lightningspam-photography]

California Brown Pelican (Pelicanus occidentalis californicus)

Taken at Leo Carrillo State Beach in California

Status: not extinct

While these birds number in the thousands today it wasn’t always this way. This species was nearly lost for the same reasons the Catalina Bald Eagle population plummeted: DDT which caused severely weakened egg shells meaning when the birds would try to incubate their eggs they would end up crushing them. The adult birds were also prone to dying thanks to ingestion of the pesticide Endrin. The combination of these threats made them nearly disappear from North America entirely between the 1950s and 1970s until the use of DDT was banned in the United States in 1972 allowing the population that remained to recover.

[mikescoastalexpeditions]

Experience Nature Up Close with Our Guided Tours!

Discover the Beauty of Coastal Waters

Join Mike’s Coastal Expeditions for an unforgettable adventure. Our guided kayak and paddleboard tours offer a unique way to explore the stunning waterways and hidden gems of the coastline. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, our expert guides ensure a safe, educational, and exhilarating experience.

Why Choose Us?

Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable guides have a deep understanding of the local ecosystem and are passionate about sharing their insights.

Scenic Routes: We take you through the most picturesque and serene spots, ensuring a breathtaking experience.

Safety First: All necessary safety gear and instructions are provided, ensuring a secure adventure for all skill levels.

Eco-Friendly: Our tours are designed to have minimal impact on the environment, promoting conservation and respect for nature.

Tour Highlights

Paddle through calm, crystal-clear waters

Spot local wildlife including dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species

Learn about the coastal ecosystem and its inhabitants

Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature away from the hustle and bustle

Book Your Adventure Today!

Ready to embark on an exciting journey with Mike’s Coastal Expeditions? Visit our website to book your guided kayak or paddleboard tour. Let's make memories on the water!

[kimiko24]

4 month old coastal wolf pup

[jadafitch]

Petit Manan Lighthouse, Petit Manan Island, Steuben. Possibly my favorite lighthouse. In the summer, this island is home to hundreds of birds. Including Atlantic puffins, arctic, common and roseate terns, as well as black guillemots and many more. Decided I couldn't draw them all, but here's a couple attempts to try and capture the island's vibes. Can you spot the oystercatchers? MERCH

[kimlion1313]

Sup?

Sebastian Inlet, FL - Aug 24

[marcalanpen-blog]

Ardmair views. Then photos were taken just before the sun set at Ardmair near Ullapool, in the north of Scotland.

The scenery is pretty impressive. As for the wildlife, in the few hours we spent there before the sun went down on the sea views were a couple of Oyster Catchers and a very smart looking Ringed Plover just meandering around on the foreshore. Neither seemed to be particularly afraid of me as I took a lot of photos from not a lot more than 10 metres away.

Ringed Plover.

This Ringed Plover wasn’t ringed, as in it didn’t have a ring attached to its leg, unlike its companion, below.

Notice the blue ring on one leg and the silver one on the other.

This smart Oyster Catcher was quite happy to carry on its preening as I photographed it from a few metres. They’re obviously pretty used to people, which was my good fortune.

Another sunset photo over the Firth.

[desertmountainapothecary]

Besides this majestic osprey in it’s nest, year round Resident shore birds include brown and American white pelicans, black-bellied and snowy plovers, American avocets, western sandpipers, willets, whimbrels, sanderlings, great egrets, and longbilled curlews.

[sitting-on-me-bum]

"Follow The Leader"

Mother coastal brown bears (Ursus arctos gyas) and cubs

By Torie Hilley, USA

The Nature Photographer Of The Year 2023 Awards

[thoughtartistry]

[johnnyslittleanimalblog]

brothers... by Mac Danzig Photography Via Flickr:

[mikescoastalexpeditions]

Our Guided Tours

2 1/2 Hour Tours

Guided Eco Kayak Tour

4 Hour Tours

Shared Guided Eco Pedal Kayak Tour

Sunset Tours

Glow LED Sunset Kayak Tour

Experience the ultimate sunset adventure

Private Tours

Unforgettable private Hobie kayak tour

Guided Eco Hobie Kayak & Paddleboard Tours

Welcome to Mike’s Coastal Expeditions, your gateway to thrilling aquatic adventures in Southwest Florida! Our guided eco kayak and paddleboard SUP tours are tailored to fulfill every water enthusiast’s dreams. Whether you want a peaceful exploration of clear waters, an exciting paddleboarding experience, or a personalized private tour for special occasions, we have the perfect outing for you.

Join Our 2.5-Hour Hobie Kayak Tour

Embark on a 2.5-hour guided eco tour of Big Hickory Island with our expert guide, Mike. Navigate through enchanting mangrove tunnels, visit hidden beaches, and witness diverse coastal wildlife, including the majestic manatees. This tour offers an immersive experience of Florida’s stunning coastal beauty.

Discover Big Hickory Island with a 4-Hour Hobie Kayak Tour

For those desiring a longer adventure, our 4-hour Hobie Kayak Tour is ideal. Paddle through winding waterways, spot playful dolphins, and unwind on secluded beaches. With the Mirage Pedal Drive system in our Hobie Kayaks, you can enjoy a relaxed pace, allowing ample time to take in the picturesque surroundings. Covering 4.5-5 miles, this tour ensures an unforgettable day on Big Hickory Island’s pristine waters.

Enjoy Serenity with a Paddle Board/SUP Tour

Experience the ultimate aquatic adventure with our Paddle Board Tour on Big Hickory Island. Led by our knowledgeable guide, Mike, this tour allows you to paddle through beautiful mangrove tunnels and encounter exciting wildlife like dolphins and manatees. Relax on a secluded beach and appreciate the untouched beauty of this coastal paradise. Suitable for all ages and experience levels, it’s the perfect way to explore the natural wonders of Florida’s Gulf Coast.      

Create Lasting Memories with a Private Hobie Kayak Tour

Indulge in a customized and exclusive experience with our Private Hobie Kayak Tour. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, a beach lover, or looking for a paddling challenge, we tailor the tour to your preferences. This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and special occasions alike. Imagine proposing amid breathtaking scenery or celebrating important family events, all while creating cherished memories. Family-friendly and suitable for all ages, bring your loved ones along for an unforgettable adventure.

To book any of these amazing tours, simply give us a call, and we’ll schedule a time that works for you. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with unforgettable moments and a deep connection with Southwest Florida’s natural beauty!

Meet Your Guide

Instructor: Mike

Role: Owner and Guide

Your friendly guide to the wonders of nature and the excitement of kayaking. Get ready to embark on an incredible journey together.

[wingedjewels]

I saw a Hummingbird taking a Birdbath! by Ruby 2417 Via Flickr: A female Anna's Hummingbird, bathing in a rivulet about a centimeter deep. Mill Valley, Ca. July, 2024.