Destination tour · From the Anclote River launch
Ride across the Gulf with a local guide to Three Rooker Island — a water-access-only barrier island and bird sanctuary with white sand, shallow turquoise water and ever-changing sandbars.
2 or 4 hrs
Tours that stop at Three Rooker
Guided
Led by a local who knows the water
Beginners
Welcome — full safety briefing first
Water only
No road or bridge to the island
Tour details
Destination
A natural barrier island and bird sanctuary in the Gulf of Mexico, reachable only by water.
Tours that stop here
Junior Island Hopping Tour (2 hrs, beginner-friendly) or Barrier Island Tour (4 hrs).
Departure
1119 Baillies Bluff Road, Holiday, FL 34691 — just north of Tarpon Springs. Please arrive 30 minutes early.
Operators
Drivers 18 and up need a valid driver’s license. Ages 14–17 can drive with an adult or guardian riding along as a passenger. Florida boating safety certification is required to operate; a temporary certificate fee applies if you need one.
Riders
Combined rider weight must be under 360 lbs per jet ski.
Included
Plus your local tour guide, anchors and anchor lines. Snacks, drinks and parking (up to $10) are not included.
Tip · Bring water shoes
You’ll be wading into the shallows and walking island shorelines, so water shoes are a must. Grab an inexpensive pair ahead of time on Amazon or at one of the stores near the launch.
Accessible only by water
The destination
Three Rooker Island is a hidden gem of the Florida Gulf Coast — a natural, ever-changing barrier island and bird sanctuary that most visitors never experience.
The ride out is half the fun: open Gulf water, then white sand and shallow, clear water that’s perfect for wading, beach walks and photos. It’s a longtime favorite with locals, known for the iconic teepee built on the island.
Guests often spot dolphins, sea turtles and coastal birds along the way. Wildlife is never guaranteed — but it’s always a highlight.
Bird sanctuary
White-sand beaches
Shallow sandbars
The locals’ teepee
The ride
Here’s the route on the 2-hour Junior Island Hopping Tour. Exact stops depend on the tour you book and the day’s conditions.
01
Meet your guide at the Anclote River launch, get your life vest and a full orientation, and get comfortable on the jet ski.
02
Walk the shoreline for shells, look for seahorses and snorkel in clear water. Forgot your gear? Snorkel rental is $15.
03
White sand, shallow turquoise water and the locals’ famous teepee — the highlight of the ride for most guests.
04
Finish at the lively Anclote Sandbar, a local hotspot for sunshine, music and relaxing in the shallows.
Want more time on the water? The 4-hour Barrier Island Tour adds Caladesi Island and other spots known mostly to locals.
Book Three Rooker
Both tours are guided and leave from the Anclote River launch. Pick the one that fits your day — live availability and rates appear when you book.
2 hours · Beginner-friendly
Anclote Island, Three Rooker Island and the Anclote Sandbar in one easygoing ride. A great first jet ski tour for families and first-timers.
Guided · Shells, snorkeling & sandbars
4 hours · Beginner to intermediate
More time to explore: Anclote, Three Rooker and Caladesi islands plus hidden beaches. Shell, snorkel in the shallows or just relax on the sand.
Guided · Three islands, one day
Real Aqua Safari guests and jet skis on the Gulf — no stock photos.
Good to know
The quick answers guests ask most about this ride. Anything else, just give us a call.
What is Three Rooker Island?
A natural, ever-changing barrier island and bird sanctuary in the Gulf of Mexico. There’s no road or bridge — you can only reach it by water.
Do I need jet ski experience?
No. Every tour starts with a full safety briefing and orientation, and the 2-hour Junior Island Hopping Tour is rated beginner-friendly.
What should I bring?
Swimsuit, hat, sunscreen, water shoes, a towel and plenty of water — plus your driver’s license, some cash and a waterproof container for your phone and keys. A camera or GoPro is a great idea.
Will we see wildlife?
Often, but it’s never guaranteed. Guests regularly spot dolphins, sea turtles and coastal birds on the way to Three Rooker.
What if the weather turns bad?
Aqua Safari watches the local weather closely and may cancel if conditions are unsafe. If that happens, your tour will be rescheduled or refunded.
Ready to ride?
Guided jet ski tours from the Anclote River launch — a short, scenic drive north of Clearwater Beach.
Locally owned by Sean Spencer · Full safety briefing · Life vests & safety gear included