The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. ]. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. 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! 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}. 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. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? - CLJ - Community Literacy The Great Calusa Blueway. Suwannee River Wilderness. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Located in the Ocala National Forest, you'll find that this hidden gem is less crowded than some of the other kayak spots around Orlando. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? (Quick Facts) Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Hey there kayak lovers! In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. You know water sports you know me! Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! What are the risks to canoeists and kayakers from alligators? 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. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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. 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. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Well-marked and user-friendly, the 190-mile Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail is a paddler's paradise of secluded beaches and protected estuaries that are laced with mangrove islands and tunnels as well as tidal creeks. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. 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. 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. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? 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. Kayaking Near Orlando (11 Great Places to Paddle) - Paddle About 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. 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. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 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. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Never paddle alone. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. 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! Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. 1. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. Clam Pass. Blackwater River. 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. 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. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. Alligator that menaced a Florida paddleboarder is killed | WUSF Public So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. 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. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. 5 The Manatee River. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! We cover the whole outdoor arena. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 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. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . Crescent Lake. 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. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. The best area to kayak in Bradenton is right by Coquina Beach: Coquina Beach is also known as Bradenton Beach and there is a giant bay area next to it where there are many open water and kayaking trails available to do the following things: Just explore the area. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . 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 the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 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Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida? A Practical Guide Before You Head Out Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. 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. Kayaking In Florida: Top 23 Launch Spots Mapped Kayaking Near Me WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. 10 best Educational field trips in Florida for families We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Kayak Gator Free!! 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. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Rainbow Springs State Park. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. Yes! As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. 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. But this goes back to respecting their territory. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. 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. Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent 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. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. 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. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Manage Settings Our posts may contain affiliate links. Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. 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! Best places for kayaking in Florida. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Paddling with gators in Florida's Myakka River State Park A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. They can also move quickly on land. Check availability. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. Nature . 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! Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. 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. The Okaloosa County-managed Wayside Park next to the Cox Bridge section of State Road 85 near the south end of Crestview is a convenient way to get on the Shoal River. Florida wildlife officials have now killed a nearly 12-foot alligator that swam within inches of a frightened paddleboarder in a popular state park during an encounter in September recorded on video that went viral. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. While the idea. Kayaking With Alligators in Florida - Fun, Dangerous, and Necessary There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. 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. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. 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. Blackwater River. 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. Crescent Lake. 2. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. The Lido Key Mangroves. 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. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. - Just Go! Alligator that menaced paddleboarder in viral video is killed by 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. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. 7. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. 6. 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. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. 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. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. 3. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA, Top 10 Places to Kayak in Florida (2020 Update), Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators Travel Youman, Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. The Alligator Safety Tips You Need to Know BEFORE You Visit Florida In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. However, you might run into some obstacles. References:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',632,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rockey is a kayaking enthusiast who has been kayaking with a local group for the last five years. Know Now! Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. Best places to kayak in Florida: 5 spots in Okaloosa, Walton counties The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. 17 Best Places to Kayak in Miami, FL - Kayak Guidance Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. 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. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling.
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