Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators : r/PonzoBlogs Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. 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. 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. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. There is something for everyone. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. seminole county deputies. Don't throw Cheetos at it. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? 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!) If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! The 10 Best Places to Paddle Board in Florida | ISLE | Blog Kayaking in Florida: 7 best towns to stay for a getaway According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. 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. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. 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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? One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. 16 Best Natural Springs In Florida You Must Visit You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. 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. Starting at Everglades City, rent a kayak at one of the several outlets and head out into the famous swamp for an up close look at alligators, turtles, and ancient mangrove forests. 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. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? Kayaking Near Orlando (11 Great Places to Paddle) - Paddle About This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. The Best Places to Kayak in Bradenton Florida Revealed! 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! Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. In summary, although there are potential risks associated with taking part in wildlife-filled waters throughout points in Florida, there still exist plenty of reputable sources which can guide individuals on finding aquatic recreational experiences away from human/alligator interactions. Blackwater River. from. Know Now! 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! Manage Settings From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. Exploring Florida's Magical Mangrove Tunnels Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . 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. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. 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. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators: In-depth - KayaksHome The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. If your preference is saltwater paddling opportunities instead, then websites such as KayakFloridaKeys offer great suggestions for all levels of skill including beginner friendly trips from Key Largo all the way down through Dry Tortugas National Park near Key West. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Group nearly attacked by gator while kayaking in Central Florida - WESH 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. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. 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: CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. 17 Top Spots for Snorkeling in Florida - American Oceans Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. 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. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? 9 Best Place For You (2022) Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. 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. The 12 Best Places to Kayak in Florida For a Perfect Paddle! 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}. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. Anastasia State Park Camping: A Guide for Florida Travelers One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. 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/. And dont forget your camera! Alligator that menaced paddleboarder in viral video is killed by Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. This area consists mainly marshland waters where kayakers can take small trips via networked canoe trails without having to worry too much about gators being around every corner! This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? - Kayak-sensei When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, 9 Of The Best Places to Kayak In Central Florida, 5 Of The Canoe and Kayak Rental Tours In Central Florida, Best Places to Kayak In Florida [North, South & Central], Can Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down? If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Yes, it actually happens! You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. One reason Ocala is among the best towns for kayaking in Florida: Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest, where the swimming is excellent if you like 72 degree water. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent 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. So, it would have been very easy for someone to take an egg or a hatchling home, just kind of without anyone noticing," Jarrod Forthman . 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. Tampa Bay, Crystal River & Spring Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Fort De Soto County Park are some of the best places to kayak in Florida. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. Kayaking With Alligators in Florida - Fun, Dangerous, and Necessary If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Kayaking Myakka River. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Manatee River. 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. 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. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. See wildlife like Manatees. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. But this goes back to respecting their territory. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Ichetucknee Springs. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Fun Outdoor Ventures 8 The Hillsborough River. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. 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. 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. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Alligators rarely attack without reason, and usually won't linger in one area as long-time visitors do - this means it's important for kayakers not just be careful but also mindful of where their boats are so that any . In truth, they aren't. . Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. The Silver River is known for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_River_(Florida), https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/suwannee-river-wilderness-state-trail, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_River_(Florida). Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Kayak Gator Free!! 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. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. Paddling with gators in Florida's Myakka River State Park This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. 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! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-box-4','ezslot_4',630,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-box-4-0'); If you are planning to kayak in water infested with alligators or you fear you might come across an alligator, you should know the typical behavior. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! 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! The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. - Just Go! Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. 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. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. Suwannee River Wilderness. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. 2. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. 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. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. 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. Good luck. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Whether you want to explore the crystal clear springs, tour through peaceful mangroves, or experience the tranquility of paddling around a remote island, non-swampy locations abound across Florida's many waterways. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Although Florida is known for its alligators, there are plenty of places in the sunshine state that offer paddling opportunities without the fear of coming face-to-face with one. Heading over near Tampa Bay will bring you to Weedon Island Preserve kayaking trails that wind through gorgeous coastal estuaries offering expansive views and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, osprey and more! 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. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. The Lido Key Mangroves. Get into some mangrove areas. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. 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! 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window).