The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. In addition there are two wonderful refuges nearby Big Pass near Lido Key which sometimes provides seasonal manatee sightings when paddling around calm waters here - as well as Little Sarasota Bay just across US 41 from Siesta Key where secluded bays ringed with luxuriant foliage provide shelter from most sea-breezes coming up from further south which makes finding safe places to paddle fun even on windier days! What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. 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 are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . Looking for places to kayak in Florida that don't have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. 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! This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. The Lido Key Mangroves. Search no more! Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. 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! Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . 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. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. 00:58 - Source: CNN. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. 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. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. 5 The Manatee River. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-blackwater-river-state-forest/, https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/big-bend/paddling-trail/, https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-great-kayaking-in-florida/, https://www.tripstodiscover.com/kayaking-in-florida/. Manatee River. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. 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. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. 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. 8 The Hillsborough River. 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. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. 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. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. 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! Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. This is one of the safest places to kayak. 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. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. 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. See wildlife like Manatees. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. 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General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. During the mating season, alligators can also be aggressive because it is warmer and their metabolism is high, making them hungry and desperately searching for food. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. 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. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. But when you get in the way of the alligator and its safety, its not a good sign as it will probably attack your kayak because it will feel cornered. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. 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. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Nature . TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. The park is generally considered safe for travelers who take necessary precautions for their own well-being such as being mindful about drinking only bottled water when camping out or refraining from wandering deep into trails without a guide present because borders with Mexico share common land entrances near the national park.. Weeki Wachee Springs. 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. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? CNN . First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Get into some mangrove areas. seminole county deputies. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. 1. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". 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. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. 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. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. 7 The St. Johns River. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. They can also move quickly on land. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife.