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! The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Thank you! If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Although Florida has a large alligator population. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Kayaking in Florida. Heading over near Tampa Bay will bring you to Weedon Island Preserve kayaking trails that wind through gorgeous coastal estuaries offering expansive views and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, osprey and more! The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Weeki Wachee Springs. Crystal River. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. Blackwater River. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? - Just Go! Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Santa Fe River. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: 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 main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. He loves using kayaks while out on outings on the water or camping when the friends want to have a BBQ party somewhere on the bank of a local lake. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 5 The Manatee River. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. 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. Kayaking Myakka River. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. time to kayak out of the area into safety. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. The Lido Key Mangroves. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. 4. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. Never paddle alone. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. 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! Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. 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. 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. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Florida is full of breathtakingly beautiful waterways, but it's important to remember that the Everglades wetlands areas are favorite habitat for some 12-foot long creatures! Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. However, you might run into some obstacles. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Alligators are just as afraid of us as we are of them, so typically if a kayak enters an alligator area, they will duck below the water and hide. 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. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. 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. 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. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. 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. The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. Rainbow Springs State Park. Crescent Lake. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. 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. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 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. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). 3. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. 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}. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. >> oh my goodness. 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! You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. More About James R Rockey at About Page Here: AuthorsBased on his experiences with the different types of kayaks, he is sharing his opinion about kayaking tricks and required gears so that a beginner can get started right away.Find his team on Twitter here. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. If you would prefer to do a kayaking tour in a saltwater environment, here are some great options: Florida springs are the real star of Florida kayaking. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. 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! This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. - Just Go! Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. >> the tail went on our kayak. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . 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! The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. The variety here is breathtaking as visitors paddle up low lying creeks where they can gaze at remarkable birds among pristine trees draped in mosses and lichens before reconnecting with their destination shoreline. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. 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. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Silver Glen Springs. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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 . Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Alligators rarely attack without reason, and usually won't linger in one area as long-time visitors do - this means it's important for kayakers not just be careful but also mindful of where their boats are so that any . 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. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. Best places for kayaking in Florida. 6. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. 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. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. 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. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. Don't poke it with your paddle. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. Tarpon Springs, Florida. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. Get into some mangrove areas. 3 Santa Fe River. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. 00:58 - Source: CNN. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. 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. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. Yes! Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! 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! You will also come across many birds. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. 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. (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. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. CNN . In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Search no more! This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. 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/. 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! SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. Copyright 2023 Just Go! 1. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Starting at Everglades City, rent a kayak at one of the several outlets and head out into the famous swamp for an up close look at alligators, turtles, and ancient mangrove forests. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . 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. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. 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. Learn More{{/message}}. 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. 8 The Hillsborough River. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable.
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