We asked Shawn Duytschaver of Native Rentals, offering Anna Maria Island eco tours, for his insight on kayaking and canoeing the backwaters, bays and Gulf waters around Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key.

Five Tips for Paddling with Ease and Environmental Awareness

1. Begin with a paddling orientation by a local guide to ensure your safety and learn about the local waters’ vegetation and marine life.

2. Amateur kayakers should choose calm waters. The backwaters of Palm Sola Bay off Anna Maria Island are a perfect spot for beginners, who can get a rare look at the Neal Preserve and Robinson Preserve by paddling the estuaries in over 12 acres of open water, 56 acres of marsh and 10 acres of uplands.

3. Select your paddle length based on your height and make sure you feel comfortable with it before you get out on the water.

4. The smooth or concave side of the paddle blades should lead you through your stroke. This is the side that you want to effectively pull through the water.

5. Respect the ecosystem, and don’t disturb any of the wildlife or plants that make it their home.