You will also come across many birds. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. 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. 2 where to kayak in florida without alligators; 3 Santa Fe River; 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River; 5 The Manatee River; 6 Madison Blue Spring State Park; 7 Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. Is kayaking in Florida your first time, and you're looking for a place where you won't have to worry about getting into trouble? Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. ]. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! These are also things that one might warn a . It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Hiking Safely in Florida | Dogs | Florida Hikes What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? 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. Additionally alongside most springs you'll often find campgrounds providing convenient spots often right alongside waterways allowing visitors ample opportunity dip their boats into cool temperatures 365 days outa' year while having a basecamp they can return each day after paddlin' round larger regions - this gives newcomer kayakers ample time refine their craft before hitting bigger open waters later down the line if desired at all! Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? - TimesMojo But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 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. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. 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. The Lido Key Mangroves. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. 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. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. So what are you waiting for? 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. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 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. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. 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! Wildlife exploration in Florida. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. ). Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. 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. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. 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. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. 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. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. 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! Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. The 7 Best Mangrove Kayaking In Florida | PyeNye Good luck. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Locations such as Crystal River just north Tampa Bay offer not only gorgeous scenery but also year round protection from Florida's notorious heat providing an (often overlooked) opportunity given other areas may become quite hot during summer months. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. 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. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. We cover the whole outdoor arena. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Silver Glen Springs. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. The Loxahatchee River. Continue with Recommended Cookies. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". 3. 8 Best Places to Kayak in Florida (And Avoid Alligators) There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. 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! 2. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. 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. 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! These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Leave no trace. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. 2. getupandgokayaking. Nature . With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. 10 best Educational field trips in Florida for families Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. 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.. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Is it safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Adventure Paddle Tours You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! 15 Things You Didn't Know About Alligators In Florida - TheTravel The Best Kayaking in Florida: A Paddling Guide To The 10 Must-See Spots You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA, Top 10 Places to Kayak in Florida (2020 Update), Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators Travel Youman, Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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