With zero pressure from swimmers or motor boats it's perfect for those wanting a less invaded area and its completely free from alligator presence too! Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. - Just Go! The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. " Silver Glen Springs (Marion County, FL) " by, Paul Clark licensed under CC BY 2.0. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. 1. 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! Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. 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. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? 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. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. Santa Fe River. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. 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. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Essential Tips to Follow. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Copyright 2023 Just Go! 7 The St. Johns River. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 00:58 - Source: CNN. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. 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}. 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.. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Some of these places have alligator populations living close by, and others are entirely alligator-free. . This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. (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. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 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! Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. They can also move quickly on land. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 1.1 Rainbow River: 1.2 Lake Eola: 1.3 Crystal River: 1.4 Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: 1.5 Little Manatee River State Park: Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Kayaking Myakka River. 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/. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. 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. In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . 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. ). You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. 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. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. 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? 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. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. Everglades Safari Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the last tour departs at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for adults cost . This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. Never paddle alone. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. 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. 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. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. 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.. 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. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? 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. 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. Crystal River. Manatee River. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. That's where we come in. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. 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. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. 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! 7. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. Rainbow Springs State Park. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South 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? The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . 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. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. - Kayak-sensei. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. My life is all about it. No matter where you rove about within this paradise state known for its glorious sunsets peeking through cypress stands enshrouded in clouds framing majestic everglades wetlands from which rises extraordinary wildlife choruses flocking cobalt skies at day along magical night as Venus brightens come nightfall you'll find some truly amazing non-swampy spots well worth your exploration whether it's tepid springs rippling waterways overflown riverbanks inviting blow dredge islands or shaded mangroves negotiating intra coastal passes entrenched within sizable saltwater estuaries that offer untamed paddles truly deserving any outdoor enthusiast delight pursuit! The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. 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. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. 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. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. . Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here.
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