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 place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. It is advised that you take a shuttle back to the starting point; however, you know how much you can handle so you can paddle back if you can. 1. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! 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. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. This 500-acre park offers lots of open spaces as well as access to scenic parts of the Cat Fish Creek Nature Trail and Seminole Wilderness Area with impressive views along the way. 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. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Some of the best places to kayak in Florida without alligators are the Santa Fe River, Weeki Wachee Spring, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, Silver River, Rainbow River, Manatee River, Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail, etc. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. 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! It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. The water flows freely. There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. If the idea of alligators in the water with you is just too much to handle, there are plenty of salt water kayaking options in Florida. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. 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. 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. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. There's even a nearby boat ramp so you can launch your kayaks right into the saltwater lagoon just watch out for schools of tarpon though! Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Although Florida has a large alligator population. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. 1. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 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 . Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. This area consists mainly marshland waters where kayakers can take small trips via networked canoe trails without having to worry too much about gators being around every corner! And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. adventure for everyone involved. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. 2. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . 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. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. See wildlife like Manatees. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. The 31-mile trail winds through the Blackwater River State Forest and offers viewings of one of the most pristine sand-bottomed rivers on the planet, which varies in color from a rich coffee brown to light yellow, depending on the depth. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! 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!! Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. 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. You know water sports you know me! It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? 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! This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! 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. 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. But this goes back to respecting their territory. 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. 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. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. 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. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. 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! 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? In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. But when you get in the way of the alligator and its safety, its not a good sign as it will probably attack your kayak because it will feel cornered. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. [Whats The Best Method? A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. Know Now! The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about 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. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Best places for kayaking in Florida. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. The alligator can hiss or bellow. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Do alligators go in the canals in Florida? Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. 6 The Loxahatchee River. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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! From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. " Silver Glen Springs (Marion County, FL) " by, Paul Clark licensed under CC BY 2.0. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. Manage Settings 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. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. Is kayaking in Florida your first time, and you're looking for a place where you won't have to worry about getting into trouble? It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. 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! The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. 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! For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. 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? Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. 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. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. And dont forget your camera! 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). Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. 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. 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 . 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. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Manage Settings The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. - Kayak-sensei. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? 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! As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. That's where we come in. KayaksPoint is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. . This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. Crescent Lake. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. With stunning scenery, clear water, wondrous rock formations, and banks lined with majestic cypress trees, the 6 mile long Ichetuknee River is a wonder to kayak. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! Almost everyone new to paddling waters with alligators has the same primal fear of an attack. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Shoal River. . "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. However, you might run into some obstacles. Learn More{{/message}}. 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. With zero pressure from swimmers or motor boats it's perfect for those wanting a less invaded area and its completely free from alligator presence too! Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 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. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? 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. 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. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Some of the best places to kayak in Florida without alligators are the Santa Fe River, Weeki Wachee Spring, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, Silver River, Rainbow River, Manatee River, Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail, etc. 4. 8 The Hillsborough River. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. from. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. . You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. Complete Guide. 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.. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. 2. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Yes, it actually happens! The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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.