If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Weeki Wachee Springs. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. In addition head South towards Everglades National Park - absolutely one fo the best spots for kayaking in all of Florida--for an incredible saltwater adventure across shallow channels and coastal flats consisting mostly mudflats but also patches of oyster bars interspersed between lagoons teeming with wildlife such as wading birds gliding across glass like reflections offered by oddly colored greenish waters below flooded sawgrass meadows illuminated by dazzling sunlight above! And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. 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. 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. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. 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. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. 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. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Other safe spots include several parks near New Smyrna Beach such as Ponce de Leon Inlet near Spruce Creek Preserve which provides an amazing journey with its large marshy creeks leading out into calm estuaries teeming with a variety wildlife--minus any gators! "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. 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. 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. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. We cover the whole outdoor arena. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. 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!3. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-blackwater-river-state-forest/, https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/big-bend/paddling-trail/, https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-great-kayaking-in-florida/, https://www.tripstodiscover.com/kayaking-in-florida/. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. If the idea of alligators in the water with you is just too much to handle, there are plenty of salt water kayaking options in Florida. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. ). Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. 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. They can also move quickly on land. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. 2. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. >> oh my goodness. Wildlife exploration in Florida. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. 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. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Everglades Safari Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the last tour departs at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for adults cost . Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. 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. Good luck. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Locations such as Crystal River just north Tampa Bay offer not only gorgeous scenery but also year round protection from Florida's notorious heat providing an (often overlooked) opportunity given other areas may become quite hot during summer months. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. 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. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. 2 where to kayak in florida without alligators; 3 Santa Fe River; 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River; 5 The Manatee River; 6 Madison Blue Spring State Park; 7 Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. 3 Santa Fe River. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 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. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The alligator can hiss or bellow. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Crescent Lake. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. 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. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. You know water sports you know me! Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. 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. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? 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. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. My life is all about it. This area consists mainly marshland waters where kayakers can take small trips via networked canoe trails without having to worry too much about gators being around every corner! This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. 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. 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.. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. from. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. $80.00. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. That's where we come in. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. 4. 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. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 1. You can read more about me on my about page. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. 1. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. The " higher central hills " of FL down the middle of the state have to least alligators, the driest land fewest ponds and swamps, and - obviously - the most hills, grass, trees, brush and forest lands. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Crescent Lake. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? 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. - Just Go! Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. 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. Read more. 6 The Loxahatchee River. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. . These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. 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. Ichetucknee Springs. This is one of the safest places to kayak. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. Know Now! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? In truth, they aren't. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Whether interested in fresh/salt/coastal paddles or discovering new necessary equipment, these organizations have made it much easier and safer than ever before locating outdoor activity centers free from gator encounters when visiting The Sunshine State! This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. 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. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. Our posts may contain affiliate links. Best places for kayaking in Florida. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. If you see an alligator, stay at least 50 yards away from it and don't feed them. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Leave no trace. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. 7. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Minutes away from Cocoa Beach, enjoy an "old Florida" mangrove tunnel called "The Amazon" in the Thousand Islands with Cocoa Beach Kayak as a naturalist guide that provides insight into this magical world. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. 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! All in all, there are so many amazing spots across Florida where you can take part in a safe yet exhilarating kayaking experience no matter if youre a beginner or experienced pro - guaranteed those who come here seeking adventure will not be disappointed! Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? 6. Yes! The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. 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. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". You will also come across many birds. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. So what are you waiting for? Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. With over 700 square miles of open water and plenty of sheltered coves available, this giant body of water provides plenty of opportunities to practice paddling techniques while enjoying breathtaking surroundings. adventure for everyone involved. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. 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. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. Blackwater River. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. Manage Settings A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. Contents. 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. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. 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. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. 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! If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. Never paddle alone. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Yes! per adult. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. 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. We love outdoor adventures! 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. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. 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.