Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Complete Guide. Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? An alligator slammed into the side of a kayak, tipping the boater into Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. 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. Never paddle alone. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? 2. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. 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! Manage Settings Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. The Great Calusa Blueway. Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? 8 The Hillsborough River. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. 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. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Blackwater River. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. 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 server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Happy reading! There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. That's where we come in. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? - Kayak-sensei In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. If you want something a bit more adventurous, take a tour around Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola it features twisty mangrove tunnels for fun exploring in addition to peaceful lagoons perfect for easy paddling. Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. 16 Best Natural Springs In Florida You Must Visit Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Does Tarpon Bay Have Alligators? | FishingIsEasy This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below 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. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. 3 Santa Fe River. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Suwannee River Wilderness. - Kayak-sensei. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. - Just Go! South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. Is It Safe To Kayak With Alligators? 8 Safety Tips & More 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). 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. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. 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. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. All in all, there are so many amazing spots across Florida where you can take part in a safe yet exhilarating kayaking experience no matter if youre a beginner or experienced pro - guaranteed those who come here seeking adventure will not be disappointed! Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Kayaking In Florida: Top 23 Launch Spots Mapped Kayaking Near Me It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! There is something for everyone. 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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.. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. 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. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. These are also things that one might warn a . As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! 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. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? Search no more! 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. Read more. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. 15 Things You Didn't Know About Alligators In Florida - TheTravel 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! If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA Alligator swims toward woman, tries to bite paddleboard at Central - Just Go! 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 Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators : r/PonzoBlogs This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. 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. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. 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. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. 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. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. 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. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. 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. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. 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. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Ichetucknee Springs. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program | FWC - Florida Fish And Wildlife When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. 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. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. 1. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 1. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. Check availability. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. per adult. ). Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. 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! But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Some of the best places to kayak in Florida without alligators are the Santa Fe River, Weeki Wachee Spring, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, Silver River, Rainbow River, Manatee River, Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail, etc. - Just Go! Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. 6. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Weeki Wachee Springs. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. 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. 10 Picturesque Places to Go Kayaking in Florida - Trips To Discover The alligator can hiss or bellow. Where to kayak in florida without alligators? - cgaa.org The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. 17 Top Spots for Snorkeling in Florida - American Oceans However, you might run into some obstacles. Hey there kayak lovers! Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . Continue with Recommended Cookies. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. Shoal River. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. 5 The Manatee River. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. 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. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? |Tricks To Stay Safe In 2023 Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. 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! The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. 2. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Is it safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Adventure Paddle Tours If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. He loves using kayaks while out on outings on the water or camping when the friends want to have a BBQ party somewhere on the bank of a local lake. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Kayaking With Alligators in Florida - Fun, Dangerous, and Necessary The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. 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}. 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. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. These include: Looking for places to kayak in Florida that dont have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. 7. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? (Quick Facts) If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. 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. 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 . Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. . Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators: In-depth - KayaksHome The 10 Best Places to Paddle Board in Florida | ISLE | Blog 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. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. (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. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly.
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