The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. 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. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. 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. adventure for everyone involved. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. 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. The Silver River is known for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_River_(Florida), https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/suwannee-river-wilderness-state-trail, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_River_(Florida). The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Do alligators go in the canals in Florida? Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. The Great Calusa Blueway. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. >> oh my goodness. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Continue with Recommended Cookies. 3. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. 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! Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. Alligators attacking kayaks . Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Weeki Wachee Springs. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. 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! Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Kayaking in Florida. You can read more about me on my about page. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. 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. Contents. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . 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 . In truth, they aren't. 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. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Best Places to Stay. 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. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. 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. 4. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 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. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. We cover the whole outdoor arena. 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. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. 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! 5 The Manatee River. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? - Just Go! The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? 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! Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Bear in mind that the John Pennekamp Coral Reef is very popular over the weekends, especially if it is good weather, attracting crowds of kayakers and people on jet skis and motorboats.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-box-4','ezslot_2',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-box-4-0'); For the average kayaker, open-water paddling in the protection of the mangrove wilderness is a calming experience. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. 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. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. 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. " Silver Glen Springs (Marion County, FL) " by, Paul Clark licensed under CC BY 2.0. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. 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). With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Suwannee River Wilderness. Suwannee River Wilderness. 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! Ichetucknee Springs. In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. 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. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? 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. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. 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. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. That's where we come in. Plus don't forget Biscayne National Park located near Miami; here visitors will find some coastal mangrove ecosystems with miles upon miles of shallow water channels ready for exploration by novice kayakers! Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Blackwater River. 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! You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. 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! One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. 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. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. 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? And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. 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. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. While the idea. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Learn More{{/message}}. Happy reading! Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? 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. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. >> the tail went on our kayak. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Never paddle alone. The Loxahatchee River. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. So what are you waiting for? You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . 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! What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. 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. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. Thank you! 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. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Rainbow Springs State Park. 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. 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 Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. 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! 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Good luck. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. 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. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. Kayaking Myakka River. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. 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.
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