Tarpon Bay Explorers (Ding Darling NWR)
Sanibel Island · Lee County, Florida
Aerial view — parking & launch
Where it is
Sanibel Island, Lee County, FL
26.44860, -82.08280
Parking & access
Refuge concession ramp at 900 Tarpon Bay Rd; rentals, tours, personal-craft launch (~$7 fee); paved lot
About this spot
Calm Tarpon Bay flats and the gateway to the marked Commodore Creek mangrove trail; premier beginner SUP.
Know before you go
- • motorboat traffic in the bay
- • wind on the open bay crossing
- • shallow flats at low tide
Rentals, tours & lessons near here
Estero River Outfitters
SWFL's longtime paddle shop (since 1977): kayak/canoe/SUP rentals from the Estero River, tours, lessons, and a full store.
Gulf Coast Kayak
Since 1992: guided kayak/SUP eco-tours, lessons, fishing trips, and rentals through the Matlacha & Pine Island mangroves.
Independent local operators in this area. “Featured” means a paid placement. We may earn a referral fee from some links — see our disclosure.