The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. The Great Calusa Blueway. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. 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. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. 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! 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! Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. 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. Tarpon Springs, Florida. If you see an alligator, stay at least 50 yards away from it and don't feed them. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. 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. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. 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? In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. 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. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. 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! . It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. 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: Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. Be sure to head over towards Apalachicola when visiting Northwest Florida an area full of sugar sand beaches, marshes and islands made specifically for kayak exploration! kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. 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. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. . Florida wildlife officials have now killed a nearly 12-foot alligator that swam within inches of a frightened paddleboarder in a popular state park during an encounter in September recorded on video that went viral. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. So what are you waiting for? 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. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. Although Florida has a large alligator population. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. Bear in mind that the John Pennekamp Coral Reef is very popular over the weekends, especially if it is good weather, attracting crowds of kayakers and people on jet skis and motorboats.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-box-4','ezslot_2',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-box-4-0'); For the average kayaker, open-water paddling in the protection of the mangrove wilderness is a calming experience. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Never paddle alone. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. 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. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. 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. Don't throw Cheetos at it. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. Crystal River. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. The Loxahatchee River. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. You will also come across many birds. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Manatee River. 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. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! 1. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. 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. 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 more likely to attack if they mistake you for prey, so wearing brightly colored clothing will help them identify you as a human. 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. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. 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. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? 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. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! Alligators attacking kayaks . You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Don't poke it with your paddle. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. 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! To stay away from alligators even further north head over to Lake Taraweba near Bonita Springs where coastal wildlife like dolphins can be seen playing in calmer waters compared to saltier parts of Florida's coast line. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. The alligator can hiss or bellow. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. April 7, 2022. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Kayaking in Florida. 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. 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. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. 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. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. per adult. Happy reading! Get into some mangrove areas. 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. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? 6 The Loxahatchee River. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . $80.00. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. The " higher central hills " of FL down the middle of the state have to least alligators, the driest land fewest ponds and swamps, and - obviously - the most hills, grass, trees, brush and forest lands. adventure for everyone involved. Blackwater River. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. 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. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. - Just Go! The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. 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. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Blackwater River. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. 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! Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. ). We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. The Lower Keys offer spectacular kayaking opportunities throughout Bahia Honda State park or Key West National Wildlife Refuge as well as numerous backcountry routes such as Coke Hole Cut near Big Pine Key or Nine Mile Bank south of Sugarloaf Cove. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. You know water sports you know me! There is plenty of wildlife around here that includes birds, turtles, fish, and maybe even a few otters which makes it an exciting (and safe!) Touring the Everglades mangrove tunnels; kayaking or canoeing down Crystal River; exploring unique habitats along St. Mark's river outlet in Wakulla Springs State Park; 9-mile paddle on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail at Big Bend National Park. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! A Central Florida woman says someone has been feeding a large gator after video shows it coming toward her and trying to bite her paddleboard.FOX 35 Orlando . Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. 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? But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. 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. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife.