Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. There is something for everyone. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Contents. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. 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: However, you might run into some obstacles. 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 . 7. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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 water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. Clam Pass. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. 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. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. - Just Go! Continue with Recommended Cookies. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 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. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. 6. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. These are also things that one might warn a . The water levels fluctuate a lot, and you need to be sure that it is neither too high nor too low for you to handle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',645,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_8',645,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0_1');.medrectangle-4-multi-645{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Yes! Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. 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. 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Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . 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. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. Happy reading! adventure for everyone involved. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. 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!! Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . 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. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. . Essential Tips to Follow. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. The way the land is situated is quite unique. . Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! 1. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than 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. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. - Just Go! The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. 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. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. The Suwannee River: Start off in the swamps north of Okeechobee, then head along this stunning river as it winds its way towards Suwannees outlet bay coasts near Tampa Bay! The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! 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;}. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. No matter where you rove about within this paradise state known for its glorious sunsets peeking through cypress stands enshrouded in clouds framing majestic everglades wetlands from which rises extraordinary wildlife choruses flocking cobalt skies at day along magical night as Venus brightens come nightfall you'll find some truly amazing non-swampy spots well worth your exploration whether it's tepid springs rippling waterways overflown riverbanks inviting blow dredge islands or shaded mangroves negotiating intra coastal passes entrenched within sizable saltwater estuaries that offer untamed paddles truly deserving any outdoor enthusiast delight pursuit! The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. Know Now! Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. Santa Fe River. Check availability. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. 4. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. 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. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. 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!). 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.. FunOutdoorVentures.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. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. And dont forget your camera! Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. 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. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. Kayak rentals are available here if needed or you can bring your own equipment.. Florida's east coast has something special stored up north near Jacksonville: Little Talbot Island State Park which features awesome sandy dunes and beachfront access points directly onto lush barrier island marshes perfect for some day paddling or camping trips; plus no risk getting up close & personal with any crocodiles this time! 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? Looking for places to kayak in Florida that don't have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. 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 main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Manage Settings Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. 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. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. Blackwater River. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? - Just Go! 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? Complete Guide. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. Suwannee River Wilderness. 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. 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. 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 disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. 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. 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. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. If you see one in the wild, don't approach it. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! 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. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. 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! If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Rainbow Springs State Park. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list.
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