These are also things that one might warn a . Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. 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. 6 The Loxahatchee River. Yes! Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. If your preference is saltwater paddling opportunities instead, then websites such as KayakFloridaKeys offer great suggestions for all levels of skill including beginner friendly trips from Key Largo all the way down through Dry Tortugas National Park near Key West. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. >> the tail went on our kayak. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you see one in the wild, don't approach it. Manage Settings One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. Thank you! Manage Settings The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Suwannee River Wilderness. 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!! in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. 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. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. Know Now! 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. 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. . The Great Calusa Blueway. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. - Just Go! The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. The Nile crocodile has the largest body count of crocs due to people having to go to the edge of the river for water ect. April 7, 2022. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. 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. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Blackwater River. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. 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. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. 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!) If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. 4. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 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. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. time to kayak out of the area into safety. 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. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. Continue with Recommended Cookies. 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. 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. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Search no more! Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. 6. 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. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Read more. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". 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. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. 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. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. 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! Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. Blackwater River. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. 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. In truth, they aren't. In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. 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. Good luck. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. 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. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. 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. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. Locals can come to Haulover Canal to see manatees in the winter, and several tour groups offer manatee kayak tours including Get Up and Go Kayaking. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. 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. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. 7 The St. Johns River. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. 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. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. 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. 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. Ginnie Springs. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. - Kayak-sensei. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. The Lido Key Mangroves. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. 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. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 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. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. If you see an alligator, stay at least 50 yards away from it and don't feed them. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. 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. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. Dissuade alligators from residing here and create a fun-filled stress-free environment for the average kayaker to enjoy their outdoor adventure.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',127,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1-0'); The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190 mile long network of paddling routes situated along the Gulf of Mexicos coastline. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Silver Glen Springs. 2. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Companies like Flamingo Flatboats Tours Inc provide guided experiences tailored around beach front recreational areas with safety rules employed to ensure encounters with wildlife remain controlled circumstances in order to preserve nature while allowing visitors insight into this unique environment. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! Just about 90 minutes north of Tampa Bay, Crystal River is actually a large network of about 40 natural springs, originating in King's Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.Only accessible by boat, Crystal River has earned its nickname as a "water lover's paradise" with a multitude of activities and wildlife to see. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. 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) SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. https://www.kayak-sensei.com/ 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 water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. 3. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! (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. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. 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. While the idea. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. from. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. 3 Santa Fe River. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. Our posts may contain affiliate links. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. 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! 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. Don't let that put a damper on planning ahead as Florida still offers plenty tranquil spots where adventurous types can indulge in serene scenery without any predators coexisting alongside them - phew! The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. Hey there kayak lovers! This is one of the safest places to kayak. 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.