Photo from Tarpon Bay Explorers
As the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge approaches its 75th anniversary in December 2020, Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE), the refuge’s official recreation concession, has begun offering free and discounted activities on Sanibel.
Tarpon Bay Explorers is now discounting all boat and kayak tours – which include a Nature & Sealife Tours, Evening Boat Tours, and guided kayak tours throughout the day – by 25 percent on select Saturdays through 2020. All boat tours include a touch tank presentation and a narrated cruise into Tarpon Bay. Kayak tours include instruction and exploring the bay and Commodore Creek Trail. Call 239-472-8900 in advance for reservations.
On Saturday, November 23 and May 16, visitors can take advantage of free stand up paddleboard (SUP) clinics on the bay from 9 a.m. to noon. No reservations are required for this activity, but participants must be age 13 or older.
Join a refuge ranger for a free guided bike tour of the Bailey Tract trails on Saturday, January 18. Tarpon Bay Explorers will be providing the free use of bicycles and helmets to a limited number of 20 participants ages 10 and older. Reserve in advance at 239-472-8900, and meet at TBE by 9 a.m.
Other highlights of the anniversary season will include a Clyde Butcher photography exhibition November 13 through February 5; an art exhibition by Ed Anderson, the refuge’s official 75th anniversary resident artist, from February 25 through March 31; an ongoing exhibit of Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling cartoons and historic artifacts; Project Refuge: A Couture Fashion Show Using Trash on March 10; lectures; and a public celebration on December 1, 2020.
For more information about “Ding” Darling’s 75th celebration, visit www.ding75.org. Visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com for more tour information.
