Paddle and Brew Adventure in Tavares with Beer Flight Tasting

If you’re seeking a way to explore Florida’s natural charm while also enjoying a laid-back tasting session, the Paddle and Brew Adventure in Tavares might just be your cup of tea. From what we’ve gathered, this experience combines outdoor paddling on some of Lake County’s most scenic waters with a relaxed craft beer tasting afterward. It’s a blend of adventure and community, perfect for those who want a taste of old Florida and the local craft scene all in one go.

What really catches our eye about this tour are two things. First, the guided paddle through the Dora Canal promises an intimate look at wildlife and lush wetlands, with knowledgeable guides pointing out birds, turtles, and even eagle nests. Second, the beer flight at BRÜ Tap House offers a relaxed, social atmosphere where you can learn about different brews from a selection of 30 taps, with options for non-drinkers as well.

Of course, a potential consideration is the 3-hour duration, which might feel a bit quick for some who want a more leisurely paddle or deeper exploration. Also, since the beer tasting is reserved for guests 21 and over, families traveling with kids may need to plan accordingly. This tour suits those who enjoy combining outdoor activity with a little local flavor and are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Whether you’re into wildlife, outdoor adventure, or craft beer — or all three — this trip offers a balanced, engaging experience that’s well worth considering.

Key Points

• Beautiful waterways: The tour explores the stunning Dora Canal, known for its wildlife and scenic views.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Katrina are praised for their warmth and insight into the ecosystem.
• Short but sweet: The 3-hour format is manageable and packed with memorable moments.
• Inclusive options: Non-alcoholic drinks are available, making it accessible for everyone.
• Great value: Combining paddling with a beer tasting makes this a well-rounded experience.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

An In-Depth Look at the Paddle and Brew Adventure

What makes this experience stand out?

This tour offers a unique pairing of Florida’s natural beauty with its vibrant craft beer scene. For those of us who love a good outdoor activity coupled with a laid-back social gathering, it ticks all the right boxes. The guide, Katrina, is consistently highlighted for her warmth and knowledge, which elevates the experience from a simple paddle to an educational and engaging outing.

The paddle itself takes place on the Harris Chain of Lakes, with a focus on the Dora Canal, a waterway celebrated for its lush wetlands and diverse birdlife. Expect to see alligators, turtles, and maybe even eagle nests, all thanks to guides who point out the wildlife and share stories about the environment. The reviews mention that even with boats passing through, paddling was easy and enjoyable, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

What to Expect During the Paddle

The tour begins at 1:00 pm at 210 E Ruby St, Tavares. You’ll choose from a single kayak, double kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, depending on your preference. All safety gear, including life vests and whistles, is provided, which reassures even cautious travelers.

Guides like Katrina lead the way, sharing their knowledge about the ecosystem, history of the canal, and wildlife observations. Reviewers highlight that she is very personable and informative, making the paddling experience not just fun but also educational. Paddling along the canal provides some incredible photo opportunities, especially with the natural scenery and wildlife sightings.

Post-Paddle Beer Tasting at BRÜ Tap House

After the paddle, the tour continues at BRÜ Tap House. For $90 per person, you get a flight of craft beers, featuring options from a selection of 30 brews on tap. If you’re a beer enthusiast, this is a real treat — learning about each brew’s story and flavors from knowledgeable staff adds a layer of enjoyment.

The atmosphere at BRÜ is described as welcoming and relaxed. Guests mention that the beer tasting helps to round out the afternoon nicely, whether you’re trying different hoppy notes or crisp lagers. For those who don’t drink alcohol, non-alcoholic craft sodas are available, making it inclusive for everyone.

Is it good value?

At $90, this experience does carry a fair bit of value, considering the guided paddle, safety equipment, and beer tasting included. The time spent on the water plus the social setting afterward creates a good balance, especially since the tour is only about 3 hours long. It’s ideal for a half-day escape that combines outdoor activity with a chance to unwind.

Who is this perfect for?

This tour appeals most to adventurers who enjoy being outdoors and socializing in a relaxed setting. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as paddling can vary in effort depending on your choice of equipment and water conditions. Families with older kids might also enjoy it, especially if they’re comfortable with paddling, since the experience isn’t overly strenuous.

It’s less ideal for travelers looking for a lengthy expedition or a deep dive into the local ecosystem, but perfect for those who want a quick, engaging taste of Florida’s natural side with a fun bonus at the end.

Highlights from the reviews

• “Katrina, our guide, was so warm and knowledgeable…we loved seeing alligators, birdlife, and eagle nests,” says Yvette_D, capturing the wildlife-rich aspect.
• “The paddle was very easy to navigate even with boats passing through,” notes Kevin_C, emphasizing the accessibility.
• Several reviews mention the post-paddle visit to the Bru Tap House as a highlight, citing it as “a great touch” and a perfect way to remember the day.

Possible downsides

While many love the tour’s compact format, some may wish for more time on the water or a longer exploration of the wetlands. The limited group size (max 8 people) is a plus for intimacy but could mean limited availability during peak times. Weather can also impact the experience, but cancellations are handled with full refunds or rescheduling, which is helpful.

Final Thoughts: Is it for you?

If you’re after a light but engaging outdoor adventure combined with a social, relaxed beer tasting, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for those interested in wildlife, nature, and craft beer — or anyone wanting a fun, manageable excursion that offers a slice of Florida’s outdoors without requiring a full-day commitment.

The guides’ knowledge, the scenic waterways, and the community vibe at BRÜ Tap House all contribute to making it a memorable outing. Plus, with the option of non-alcoholic beverages, it’s inclusive enough to suit different preferences.

That said, if you’re looking for an intense paddling challenge or a deep-dive into local ecology, you might find this experience a bit brief. But for many, the combination of scenic views, wildlife spotting, and craft beer makes this a well-rounded, enjoyable way to spend an afternoon in Tavares.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that paddling was easy and accessible, even with boats passing through. The equipment and guides make it beginner-friendly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for paddling, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. All paddling safety gear is provided.

Can kids join the tour?
The tour is geared toward adults for the beer tasting. However, children who are comfortable paddling can participate in the water portion; just note that alcohol is only for guests 21+.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
Non-alcoholic craft sodas are available, so everyone can enjoy the atmosphere without drinking beer.

How long is the paddling part?
The exact paddling time isn’t specified, but the entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including the beer tasting.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Where do we meet?
The tour starts and ends at 210 E Ruby St, Tavares.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $90 per person, which covers paddle equipment, safety gear, and the beer tasting.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities for guides and bartenders are not included, so consider tipping if you enjoyed the experience.

This Paddle and Brew Adventure in Tavares offers a genuine slice of Florida’s outdoors paired with a fun social twist. Whether you’re flying solo, traveling as a couple, or with friends, it’s a solid choice for a memorable half-day outing.