Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. 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. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? 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. Other safe spots include several parks near New Smyrna Beach such as Ponce de Leon Inlet near Spruce Creek Preserve which provides an amazing journey with its large marshy creeks leading out into calm estuaries teeming with a variety wildlife--minus any gators! 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. If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! per adult. The Lido Key Mangroves. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Santa Fe River. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. 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! This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . Nature . The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? KayaksPoint is a blog about kayaking, canoeing and various activities based on kayaks like fishing, adventures, trips, destinations, kayak gears, boats, and your go-to resources! Get into some mangrove areas. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! 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? 1. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. 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. 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. 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. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Yes! Plus since most of its banks are also lined with wetlands so full visibility helps keep away any potential danger due to hidden predators like alligators too! {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. 2. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. ). With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . Best Places to Stay. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. It's a good idea to run away if you can get away from an alligator with a distance of around 20 or 30 feet. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Manatee River. Essential Tips to Follow. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 3. 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. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Crystal River. 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. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 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. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. 8 The Hillsborough River. Happy reading! in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. You know water sports you know me! Ichetucknee Springs. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Kayaking Myakka River. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. 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. Emus, giraffes, camels, antelopes, water buffalo, and other exotic species may be seen at the Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari, which is located approximately an hour south of Orlando. Yes, it actually happens! As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. Minutes away from Cocoa Beach, enjoy an "old Florida" mangrove tunnel called "The Amazon" in the Thousand Islands with Cocoa Beach Kayak as a naturalist guide that provides insight into this magical world. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 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. 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. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water.
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