With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. adventure for everyone involved. Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. 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. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To Learn More{{/message}}. Where to See Alligators in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA Rainbow Springs State Park. 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. Just about 90 minutes north of Tampa Bay, Crystal River is actually a large network of about 40 natural springs, originating in King's Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.Only accessible by boat, Crystal River has earned its nickname as a "water lover's paradise" with a multitude of activities and wildlife to see. 6. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. 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! You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Rainbow Springs State Park. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. 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. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? - TimesMojo Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. 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 . Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. 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 . 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. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. 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. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. 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. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. Can You Kayak To Keewaydin Island? - Kayakaa The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. 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? Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. 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! Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Manage Settings Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! 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! Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . 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. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. . Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. 7. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. 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. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. . Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. 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 . The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Although Florida has a large alligator population. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 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. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. Kayaking In Florida: Top 23 Launch Spots Mapped Kayaking Near Me Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Paddling with Alligators They can also move quickly on land. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Some of these places have alligator populations living close by, and others are entirely alligator-free. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. 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! From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. Read more. >> oh my goodness. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Fun Outdoor Ventures This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. You will also come across many birds. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! This is one of the safest places to kayak. Is It Safe To Kayak With Alligators? 8 Safety Tips & More 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. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. 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. Kayaking in Florida. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Manage Settings Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. 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. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. Is it Safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Wild Louisiana Tours We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. In summary, although there are potential risks associated with taking part in wildlife-filled waters throughout points in Florida, there still exist plenty of reputable sources which can guide individuals on finding aquatic recreational experiences away from human/alligator interactions. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! (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. Essential Tips to Follow. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 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! 6 The Loxahatchee River. 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). Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. 7 The St. Johns River. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? 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!) In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. . And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. 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! Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. 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: For those who prefer coastal paddling trips or adventures near beaches, then websites like PaddlingFinder can help narrow down searches by location proximity while also providing trip reviews from other users. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Paddling with gators in Florida's Myakka River State Park However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Alligator swims toward woman, tries to bite paddleboard at Central - Kayak-sensei. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. 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. 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. 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. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. >> the tail went on our kayak. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Suwannee River Wilderness. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. 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) If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? 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. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. 3 Santa Fe River. The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. 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! Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. 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. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. - Just Go! Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. We love outdoor adventures! 3. 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! Best places for kayaking in Florida. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. 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. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 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