Deadman’s Island is one of the Gulf Coast’s most unique hidden gems — a small protected natural preserve just off the shoreline of Gulf Breeze, rich with history, mystery, and local legend.

Join Black Manta Kayak Club for an immersive outdoor adventure, think scavenger hunt meets outdoor escape room, with a little Goonies-style treasure hunting mixed in. Designed for adventurers ages 8+, this experience challenges you to use your wits, observation skills, and teamwork to solve clues inspired by real Pensacola history and the legends of Deadman’s Island.

Your adventure begins at Wayside Park Boat Launch, once you arrive, park and look for our van with the Black Manta Kayak Club logo.

A guide will meet you there, get your group outfitted with kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and any necessary gear. Before launching, they’ll provide a quick safety briefing, paddling instructions if needed, and hand over your first clue.

From there, the paddle to Deadman’s Island is a short½-mile trip, and the island is visible directly from the launch point. Unless otherwise requested, the paddle out is self-guided, allowing your group to fully immerse yourselves in the adventure at your own pace.

Once on the island, you’ll follow a series of clues, crack puzzles, search for hidden keys, and complete challenges as you work your way toward the legendary treasure. A Black Manta crew member will be stationed on the island in case you need help, get stuck on a puzzle, or in the event of an emergency—but don’t expect them to make it easy.

After your adventure is complete, you’ll paddle back to the same launch point at Wayside Park, where your journey began.

For centuries, explorers have searched for the legendary treasure of Deadman’s Island. Most have failed. Will your crew be the first to find it?