Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. . 2. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. Manage Settings You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Crescent Lake. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. 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. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Through their spatial data system, visitors can find specific bodies of water with features like depth contours and boat launches or ramps as part of their database. (Kayak Drowning Possibilities), List Of Top Kayak Swimwear Brands Of USA; What To Wear When Kayaking, The Santa Fe River is a tributary of the Suwannee River and is approximately 78 miles (126 kilometers) long and has a watershed of approximately 1,380 square miles, Weeki Wachee Spring is a natural spring located in Weeki Wachee, Florida and it is a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. Santa Fe River. And if luck favors - anglers can also find largemouth basses swimming across this clean river as well making fishing quite enjoyable too at times during peak seasons alright? "Alligators are dangerous animals.". It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. The alligator can hiss or bellow. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Weeki Wachee Springs. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. 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! Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. 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. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. Almost everyone new to paddling waters with alligators has the same primal fear of an attack. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Some of these places have alligator populations living close by, and others are entirely alligator-free. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. 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!! First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. 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. More About James R Rockey at About Page Here: AuthorsBased on his experiences with the different types of kayaks, he is sharing his opinion about kayaking tricks and required gears so that a beginner can get started right away.Find his team on Twitter here. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. 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. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Crescent Lake. Alligators rarely attack without reason, and usually won't linger in one area as long-time visitors do - this means it's important for kayakers not just be careful but also mindful of where their boats are so that any . Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? Ginnie Springs. This post may contain affiliate links. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. This 500-acre park offers lots of open spaces as well as access to scenic parts of the Cat Fish Creek Nature Trail and Seminole Wilderness Area with impressive views along the way. Next up on you list might be Sarasota Bay near Bradenton Beach in Sarasota County which is one great spot for beginners wanting calmer waters with less chance of windy weather or current changes like what youll find on larger bodies like Lake Okeechobee or the Gulf Coast areas like Tampa Bay or Naples Bay area along the Paradise Coast near Marco Island in Collier County. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. 7. However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. Never paddle alone. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. time to kayak out of the area into safety. There is something for everyone. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. 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. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. You should take the following precautions in case of an encounter: If you plan on kayaking in alligator-infested waters, you should ensure not to bring your dog. 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.. 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. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. The variety here is breathtaking as visitors paddle up low lying creeks where they can gaze at remarkable birds among pristine trees draped in mosses and lichens before reconnecting with their destination shoreline. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. Ichetucknee Springs. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. After so much time spent on a kayak, grab some food at one off the great seafood restaurants dotted around Bonita Springs if hunger pangs set while out on the lake. 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! These include: Looking for places to kayak in Florida that dont have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Bear in mind that the John Pennekamp Coral Reef is very popular over the weekends, especially if it is good weather, attracting crowds of kayakers and people on jet skis and motorboats.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-box-4','ezslot_2',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-box-4-0'); For the average kayaker, open-water paddling in the protection of the mangrove wilderness is a calming experience. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. Best Places to Stay. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. The Lower Keys offer spectacular kayaking opportunities throughout Bahia Honda State park or Key West National Wildlife Refuge as well as numerous backcountry routes such as Coke Hole Cut near Big Pine Key or Nine Mile Bank south of Sugarloaf Cove. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. Rainbow Springs State Park. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! 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. Although Florida has a large alligator population. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. 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.. ]. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. Hey there kayak lovers! Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. Alligators are just as afraid of us as we are of them, so typically if a kayak enters an alligator area, they will duck below the water and hide. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. . What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. Rainbow Springs State Park. 4. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. - Kayak-sensei. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. So what are you waiting for? The Lido Key Mangroves. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. >> oh my goodness. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Yes, it actually happens! 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 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. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Shoal River. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Is kayaking in Florida your first time, and you're looking for a place where you won't have to worry about getting into trouble? There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. >> the tail went on our kayak. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. A: When kayaking, its important to pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. There's even a nearby boat ramp so you can launch your kayaks right into the saltwater lagoon just watch out for schools of tarpon though! Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 1. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. 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. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Tampa Bay, Crystal River & Spring Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Fort De Soto County Park are some of the best places to kayak in Florida. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . 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! SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. " Silver Glen Springs (Marion County, FL) " by, Paul Clark licensed under CC BY 2.0. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. See wildlife like Manatees. Plus don't forget Biscayne National Park located near Miami; here visitors will find some coastal mangrove ecosystems with miles upon miles of shallow water channels ready for exploration by novice kayakers! It is advised that you take a shuttle back to the starting point; however, you know how much you can handle so you can paddle back if you can. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. There's nothing like a freshwater spring to keep you cool while paddling around the river or spending time listening for birdsong along its banks. During the mating season, alligators can also be aggressive because it is warmer and their metabolism is high, making them hungry and desperately searching for food. 2. Don't poke it with your paddle. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. - Just Go! My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. getupandgokayaking. Read more. It's a good idea to run away if you can get away from an alligator with a distance of around 20 or 30 feet. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. For those who prefer coastal paddling trips or adventures near beaches, then websites like PaddlingFinder can help narrow down searches by location proximity while also providing trip reviews from other users. Learn More{{/message}}. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. This river is easily navigable on your own, but you will have a more informative trip if you decide to take one of the guided tours. ). When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack.
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