This river is easily navigable on your own, but you will have a more informative trip if you decide to take one of the guided tours. Don't throw Cheetos at it. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. 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. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. $80.00. 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To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. A post shared by Dry Tortugas National Park (@drytortugasnps) One of the best snorkeling spots in Florida is located 70 miles west of Key West. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. 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. In addition there are plenty campgrounds located along this stretch so that you can take a break whenever needed and go back on the road afterwards with just minimal contact with alligators if at all!3. 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/. 7. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. 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. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. However, you might run into some obstacles. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. 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! 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. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. 6. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. 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. This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? The Lido Key Mangroves. 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. 2 where to kayak in florida without alligators; 3 Santa Fe River; 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River; 5 The Manatee River; 6 Madison Blue Spring State Park; 7 Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? 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. 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. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Alligators attacking kayaks . 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. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. 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. Nature . 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. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. 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! ]. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. 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? The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. 5 The Manatee River. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. 1. 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. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. 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 . The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. They can also move quickly on land. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Finally pay homage to ancient tradition by visiting multiple areas on Tampa Bay that were once used as traditional Seminole fishing camps during times past! The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Kayaking in Florida. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. In truth, they aren't. Ichetucknee Springs. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. . An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. Check availability. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 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 is something for everyone. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? 8 The Hillsborough River. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. 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: KayaksPoint is a blog about kayaking, canoeing and various activities based on kayaks like fishing, adventures, trips, destinations, kayak gears, boats, and your go-to resources! With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. (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. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. Clam Pass. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. 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. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Never paddle alone. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. 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 . 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! Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Be sure to head over towards Apalachicola when visiting Northwest Florida an area full of sugar sand beaches, marshes and islands made specifically for kayak exploration! 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. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! 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. So, it would have been very easy for someone to take an egg or a hatchling home, just kind of without anyone noticing," Jarrod Forthman . One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This is one of the safest places to kayak. 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. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Get into some mangrove areas. 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. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! That's where we come in. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. 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. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Hey there kayak lovers! That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? It can be dangerous if you don't take safety precautions such as paying attention to eroded terrain while hiking and avoiding areas with loose rocks when climbing cliff walls and hillsides as well wearing adequate clothes for protection from desert temperatures or cactus damage. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. The Great Calusa Blueway. 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. Keep in mind that due to its size Lake Okeechobee can sometimes experience windy weather so its important to be aware and prepared for more challenging conditions than expected when venturing out here. With over 700 square miles of open water and plenty of sheltered coves available, this giant body of water provides plenty of opportunities to practice paddling techniques while enjoying breathtaking surroundings. Yet the statistics of alligator attacks seem to show that it can be done relatively safely, as long as the paddler follows a few protocols. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Manage Settings The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. per adult. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. This post may contain affiliate links. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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? 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? 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. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. 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. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. 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. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. 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! It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. Essential Tips to Follow. 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) Silver Glen Springs. 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. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. 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!) This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. The alligator can hiss or bellow. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. . 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. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. 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! 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. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Thank you! That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) A Central Florida woman says someone has been feeding a large gator after video shows it coming toward her and trying to bite her paddleboard.FOX 35 Orlando . An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. 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. 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. Touring the Everglades mangrove tunnels; kayaking or canoeing down Crystal River; exploring unique habitats along St. Mark's river outlet in Wakulla Springs State Park; 9-mile paddle on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail at Big Bend National Park. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. 1. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river.
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