Since 2002, Coastal Bend Kayak has been the paddling headquarters of Texas’ island-speckled shoreline. Owner-guide Hector Rios, an American Canoe Association certified instructor with more than 25 years on these waters, leads smal...
Since 2002, Coastal Bend Kayak has been the paddling headquarters of Texas’ island-speckled shoreline. Owner-guide Hector Rios, an American Canoe Association certified instructor with more than 25 years on these waters, leads smal...
Hector and his team have built something special here, earning consistent praise for exceptional customer service and genuine care for their guests. Whether it's George welcoming renters or Hector himself leading guided tours, the staff goes above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable and accommodated. Reviewers love the flexibility with reservations and last-minute changes, plus the quality equipment is always mentioned as top-notch. The guided tours to the lighthouse stand out as a highlight, with guides offering rich knowledge about local ecosystems, bird species, and area history. First-timers and seniors particularly appreciate the patient instruction and willingness to adjust pace for photo opportunities or skill level. Several customers mention becoming repeat visitors, which speaks volumes. Delivery and pickup service adds major convenience for those who want kayaks brought to their location. A couple reviewers noted communication hiccups during pickup or when trying to reconnect, but these seem to be isolated incidents in an otherwise smooth operation focused on creating memorable experiences on the water.
We absolutely loved this kayak tour to the lighthouse and back. Our guide was super knowledgeable about the birds, plants, etc. which helped to make the trip enjoyable. So sad about the mangroves dying during last winter - I hope they come back even stronger. We aren't the youngest anymore, so he was patient with us and let us coast when appropriate to take pictures. Lots of birds to see and hear, but super hot - so they all weren't out. I've done several kayak tours before and this was one of my favorites as it was calm for the most part. We did have to cross the channel which was choppy because of the wind, but we made it safely (he said he'd never lost anyone - ha ha!!). They helped us in and out of the kayaks. It was just a really enjoyable time. I will say my poor arms hurt that night, but the next morning I was back to normal. Great, great time - we'd do it again!
J R
July 10, 2025
We absolutely loved this kayak tour to the lighthouse and back. Our guide was super knowledgeable about the birds, plants, etc. which helped to make the trip enjoyable. So sad about the mangroves dying during last winter - I hope they come back even stronger. We aren't the youngest anymore, so he was patient with us and let us coast when appropriate to take pictures. Lots of birds to see and hear, but super hot - so they all weren't out. I've done several kayak tours before and this was one of my favorites as it was calm for the most part. We did have to cross the channel which was choppy because of the wind, but we made it safely (he said he'd never lost anyone - ha ha!!). They helped us in and out of the kayaks. It was just a really enjoyable time. I will say my poor arms hurt that night, but the next morning I was back to normal. Great, great time - we'd do it again!
J R
July 10, 2025