The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. This will put you and your dog in more danger.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-banner-1-0'); You should try to keep a distance of at least 30 feet if you can. (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. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. 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.. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Yes! As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. 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!) Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 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. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. That's where we come in. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. 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. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Almost everyone new to paddling waters with alligators has the same primal fear of an attack. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. 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. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Clam Pass. adventure for everyone involved. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. 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 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 Okaloosa County-managed Wayside Park next to the Cox Bridge section of State Road 85 near the south end of Crestview is a convenient way to get on the Shoal River. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Manage Settings Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. References:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',632,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rockey is a kayaking enthusiast who has been kayaking with a local group for the last five years. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Learn More{{/message}}. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. 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! If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Know Now! 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. Wildlife exploration in Florida. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. In truth, they aren't. from. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Fun Outdoor Ventures is owned and operated by Susan and 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 can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. 1. 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. 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. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. If you would prefer to do a kayaking tour in a saltwater environment, here are some great options: Florida springs are the real star of Florida kayaking. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. The Loxahatchee River. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. 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.. 2. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. This is one of the safest places to kayak. Rainbow Springs State Park. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. Alligators attacking kayaks . 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? 4. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. 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. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. 5 The Manatee River. 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. 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. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. 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. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. 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. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. The Lido Key Mangroves. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Finally pay homage to ancient tradition by visiting multiple areas on Tampa Bay that were once used as traditional Seminole fishing camps during times past! The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. April 7, 2022. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Copyright 2023 Just Go! 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. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. >> the tail went on our kayak. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. 7 The St. Johns River. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. . Ginnie Springs. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . 6 The Loxahatchee River. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? You can read more about me on my about page. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) 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 will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. . And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. 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. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Our posts may contain affiliate links. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. 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? If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. 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! And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. 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. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. 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. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! 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. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. 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. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. If your preference is saltwater paddling opportunities instead, then websites such as KayakFloridaKeys offer great suggestions for all levels of skill including beginner friendly trips from Key Largo all the way down through Dry Tortugas National Park near Key West. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. >> oh my goodness. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Complete Guide. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. 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. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. 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. Best Places to Stay. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. - Kayak-sensei. 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. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. 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. 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This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. See wildlife like Manatees. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 1. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. 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!! Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. 00:58 - Source: CNN. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. ). 3. 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. 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. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Contents. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. 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. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. 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! 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. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. These are also things that one might warn a . The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Yes! "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles.
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