Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. This is one of the safest places to kayak. (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. Don't let that put a damper on planning ahead as Florida still offers plenty tranquil spots where adventurous types can indulge in serene scenery without any predators coexisting alongside them - phew! Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. 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. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. 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. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) 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? You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. Heading over near Tampa Bay will bring you to Weedon Island Preserve kayaking trails that wind through gorgeous coastal estuaries offering expansive views and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, osprey and more! This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. 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. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 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! Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. 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. We cover the whole outdoor arena. 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. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. Rainbow Springs State Park. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. Manage Settings 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!) Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. The water levels fluctuate a lot, and you need to be sure that it is neither too high nor too low for you to handle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',645,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_8',645,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0_1');.medrectangle-4-multi-645{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Don't poke it with your paddle. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. Kayaking Myakka River. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. 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. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. ]. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. There is something for everyone. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. 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. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! . Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. 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: Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. 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.. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. 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. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! locations for kayaking adventures just remember to always stay aware even when beach hopping in northward or heading down south towards Dry Tortugas National Park they arent called The Danger Islands by accidents.. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . 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. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. You can read more about me on my about page. 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. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-box-4','ezslot_4',630,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-box-4-0'); If you are planning to kayak in water infested with alligators or you fear you might come across an alligator, you should know the typical behavior. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. 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. 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! Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? This post may contain affiliate links. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. The Nile crocodile has the largest body count of crocs due to people having to go to the edge of the river for water ect. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. 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. The Great Calusa Blueway. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. Crescent Lake. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. 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. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. 1. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 1. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. The water flows freely. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). And dont forget your camera! For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. 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. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 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. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. Weeki Wachee Springs. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. Almost everyone new to paddling waters with alligators has the same primal fear of an attack. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! 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. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. 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! An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. If you're a fan of kayaking and love the Sunshine State, but don't want to worry about running into any alligators, there are still plenty of places where you can safely paddle around. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. Starting at Everglades City, rent a kayak at one of the several outlets and head out into the famous swamp for an up close look at alligators, turtles, and ancient mangrove forests. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. 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! 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. 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. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Manatee River. 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. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. . Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Ichetucknee Springs. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Crystal River. time to kayak out of the area into safety. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. 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. 4. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? 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? This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. 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. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. 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. 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. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. 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. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. 6. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail.
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