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) And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. In truth, they aren't. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. 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. Check availability. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Our posts may contain affiliate links. - Just Go! Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? 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! 1. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. 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! If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. 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. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. 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. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. 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. from. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. 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. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! 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 requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? 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. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. 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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. In addition there are plenty campgrounds located along this stretch so that you can take a break whenever needed and go back on the road afterwards with just minimal contact with alligators if at all!3. The Santa Fe River is 78 miles long, and the paddle trailer starts from swamps in north Florida to Oleno state park, where it disappears underground and appears in River state park, three miles away. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Nature . Never paddle alone. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. $80.00. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. 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. 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. Continue with Recommended Cookies. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. The Great Calusa Blueway. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. 6. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. Know Now! Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. The water flows freely. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. 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. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! April 7, 2022. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. 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 addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Although Florida is known for its alligators, there are plenty of places in the sunshine state that offer paddling opportunities without the fear of coming face-to-face with one. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. My life is all about it. 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! CNN . They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. If the idea of alligators in the water with you is just too much to handle, there are plenty of salt water kayaking options in Florida. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. 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. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. . Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Yes! The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. A: When kayaking, its important to pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. 8 The Hillsborough River. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. 1. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. While the idea. Rainbow Springs State Park. . Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! 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. Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. adventure for everyone involved. Next up on you list might be Sarasota Bay near Bradenton Beach in Sarasota County which is one great spot for beginners wanting calmer waters with less chance of windy weather or current changes like what youll find on larger bodies like Lake Okeechobee or the Gulf Coast areas like Tampa Bay or Naples Bay area along the Paradise Coast near Marco Island in Collier County. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. 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. Thank you! First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. 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! Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. - Kayak-sensei. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. seminole county deputies. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. Crystal River. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. 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! Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, 9 Of The Best Places to Kayak In Central Florida, 5 Of The Canoe and Kayak Rental Tours In Central Florida, Best Places to Kayak In Florida [North, South & Central], Can Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down?