Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. Manage Settings Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. We cover the whole outdoor arena. Located in the Ocala National Forest, you'll find that this hidden gem is less crowded than some of the other kayak spots around Orlando. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Florida wildlife officials have now killed a nearly 12-foot alligator that swam within inches of a frightened paddleboarder in a popular state park during an encounter in September recorded on video that went viral. It can be dangerous if you don't take safety precautions such as paying attention to eroded terrain while hiking and avoiding areas with loose rocks when climbing cliff walls and hillsides as well wearing adequate clothes for protection from desert temperatures or cactus damage. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. - Just Go! Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. . As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. If you see an alligator, stay at least 50 yards away from it and don't feed them. ]. If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) But when you get in the way of the alligator and its safety, its not a good sign as it will probably attack your kayak because it will feel cornered. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Regardless which slice of Floridian paradise you choose, remember there are still unforeseen threats such as snakes hidden among rock formations along your path that should remain top priority during any amount time spent outdoors. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Happy reading! In addition there are plenty campgrounds located along this stretch so that you can take a break whenever needed and go back on the road afterwards with just minimal contact with alligators if at all! When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. My life is all about it. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. - Just Go! For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Wildlife exploration in Florida. A post shared by Dry Tortugas National Park (@drytortugasnps) One of the best snorkeling spots in Florida is located 70 miles west of Key West. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? 1.1 Rainbow River: 1.2 Lake Eola: 1.3 Crystal River: 1.4 Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: 1.5 Little Manatee River State Park: You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Yet the statistics of alligator attacks seem to show that it can be done relatively safely, as long as the paddler follows a few protocols. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The best places to kayak with manatees in Florida are: Weeki Wacchee State Park is the best place to go kayaking with manatees in Florida, especially for inexperienced kayakers. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . Crescent Lake. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? If you're a fan of kayaking and love the Sunshine State, but don't want to worry about running into any alligators, there are still plenty of places where you can safely paddle around. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. [Whats The Best Method? If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Whether you want to explore the crystal clear springs, tour through peaceful mangroves, or experience the tranquility of paddling around a remote island, non-swampy locations abound across Florida's many waterways. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Contents. You can be in an area that's 25 feet deep then take 2 steps and you'll be in an area that's only 10 feet. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. The way the land is situated is quite unique. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. 3. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . per adult. In summary; when seeking beautiful locations suited perfectly for entry-level paddlers interested in exploring those big bodies suchas lake Okachobee plus cozy spots suchas Bartenton Springsjust head south towards NorthwestFlorida ain't no better location t meet yer goals quite likethe Sunshine State itself - meanderingriverways lushmangroves hiddenlagoons azureblue springs & unmatched wildlife abound now matterwhere ya venture east t westsouth t north treattwo chose yer destinationwithin Floridapaddling neverends ferBeginners who seek adventurein Kayak formenjoythe ride Sunshine Staters yellGO ADVENTURE NOW!! This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! The Santa Fe River is 78 miles long, and the paddle trailer starts from swamps in north Florida to Oleno state park, where it disappears underground and appears in River state park, three miles away. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. In addition there are two wonderful refuges nearby Big Pass near Lido Key which sometimes provides seasonal manatee sightings when paddling around calm waters here - as well as Little Sarasota Bay just across US 41 from Siesta Key where secluded bays ringed with luxuriant foliage provide shelter from most sea-breezes coming up from further south which makes finding safe places to paddle fun even on windier days! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Some of the best places to kayak in Florida without alligators are the Santa Fe River, Weeki Wachee Spring, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, Silver River, Rainbow River, Manatee River, Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail, etc. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. Heading over near Tampa Bay will bring you to Weedon Island Preserve kayaking trails that wind through gorgeous coastal estuaries offering expansive views and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, osprey and more! Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. Rainbow Springs State Park. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. Yes! From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? In summary, although there are potential risks associated with taking part in wildlife-filled waters throughout points in Florida, there still exist plenty of reputable sources which can guide individuals on finding aquatic recreational experiences away from human/alligator interactions. Don't poke it with your paddle. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. . Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. This site is a participant in the Amazon services LLC associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Yes! This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. Alligators are more likely to attack if they mistake you for prey, so wearing brightly colored clothing will help them identify you as a human. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! adventure for everyone involved. 6 The Loxahatchee River. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, 9 Of The Best Places to Kayak In Central Florida, 5 Of The Canoe and Kayak Rental Tours In Central Florida, Best Places to Kayak In Florida [North, South & Central], Can Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down? Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Ginnie Springs. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Shoal River. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. locations for kayaking adventures just remember to always stay aware even when beach hopping in northward or heading down south towards Dry Tortugas National Park they arent called The Danger Islands by accidents.. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. The park is generally considered safe for travelers who take necessary precautions for their own well-being such as being mindful about drinking only bottled water when camping out or refraining from wandering deep into trails without a guide present because borders with Mexico share common land entrances near the national park.. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. Fun Outdoor Ventures is owned and operated by Susan and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is 246 miles long and it offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding wilderness, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, etc. Crystal River. The Okaloosa County-managed Wayside Park next to the Cox Bridge section of State Road 85 near the south end of Crestview is a convenient way to get on the Shoal River. Plus since most of its banks are also lined with wetlands so full visibility helps keep away any potential danger due to hidden predators like alligators too! time to kayak out of the area into safety. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. The best area to kayak in Bradenton is right by Coquina Beach: Coquina Beach is also known as Bradenton Beach and there is a giant bay area next to it where there are many open water and kayaking trails available to do the following things: Just explore the area. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. 4. You know water sports you know me! Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Tarpon Springs, Florida. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. There is plenty of wildlife around here that includes birds, turtles, fish, and maybe even a few otters which makes it an exciting (and safe!) Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) St Johns River: For those who want to venture up North toward Jacksonville but don't want gators getting in their way - then St Johns River is definitely where they should be headed! It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. The 31-mile trail winds through the Blackwater River State Forest and offers viewings of one of the most pristine sand-bottomed rivers on the planet, which varies in color from a rich coffee brown to light yellow, depending on the depth. If you see one in the wild, don't approach it. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. One reason Ocala is among the best towns for kayaking in Florida: Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest, where the swimming is excellent if you like 72 degree water. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. Know Now! Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . Clam Pass. However, you might run into some obstacles. Additionally alongside most springs you'll often find campgrounds providing convenient spots often right alongside waterways allowing visitors ample opportunity dip their boats into cool temperatures 365 days outa' year while having a basecamp they can return each day after paddlin' round larger regions - this gives newcomer kayakers ample time refine their craft before hitting bigger open waters later down the line if desired at all! Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. You can read more about me on my about page. Kayakers should note that this destination isn't exactly crocodile free - after all wildlife do roam here - however sightings tend to be more rare in these regions (but still stay alert!). And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. Well-marked and user-friendly, the 190-mile Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail is a paddler's paradise of secluded beaches and protected estuaries that are laced with mangrove islands and tunnels as well as tidal creeks. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Kayaking Myakka River.
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