You should take the following precautions in case of an encounter: If you plan on kayaking in alligator-infested waters, you should ensure not to bring your dog. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. 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! 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! If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. These are also things that one might warn a . Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. 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? To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Thank you! Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. 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! For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. 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.. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. 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. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! Just about 90 minutes north of Tampa Bay, Crystal River is actually a large network of about 40 natural springs, originating in King's Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.Only accessible by boat, Crystal River has earned its nickname as a "water lover's paradise" with a multitude of activities and wildlife to see. 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. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. Santa Fe River. 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! If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. 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. Good luck. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. ). My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Although Florida has a large alligator population. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! 00:58 - Source: CNN. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. You will also come across many birds. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. Happy reading! In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 1. Dissuade alligators from residing here and create a fun-filled stress-free environment for the average kayaker to enjoy their outdoor adventure.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',127,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1-0'); The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190 mile long network of paddling routes situated along the Gulf of Mexicos coastline. - Just Go! These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. 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. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). adventure for everyone involved. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. So what are you waiting for? However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Kayakers should note that this destination isn't exactly crocodile free - after all wildlife do roam here - however sightings tend to be more rare in these regions (but still stay alert!). 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. . This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. Learn More{{/message}}. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. But this goes back to respecting their territory. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. Wildlife exploration in Florida. 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. 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. 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. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. [Whats The Best Method? 2. 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. It can be dangerous if you don't take safety precautions such as paying attention to eroded terrain while hiking and avoiding areas with loose rocks when climbing cliff walls and hillsides as well wearing adequate clothes for protection from desert temperatures or cactus damage. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. And dont forget your camera! ]. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Yes, it actually happens! 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. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. 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. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. You can read more about me on my about page. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? 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. Suwannee River Wilderness. 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: There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. 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}. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. 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. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. 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. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). 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. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Weeki Wachee Springs. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. 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. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. - Just Go! Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Keep in mind that due to its size Lake Okeechobee can sometimes experience windy weather so its important to be aware and prepared for more challenging conditions than expected when venturing out here. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. . We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. Clam Pass. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. The variety here is breathtaking as visitors paddle up low lying creeks where they can gaze at remarkable birds among pristine trees draped in mosses and lichens before reconnecting with their destination shoreline. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. The Great Calusa Blueway. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. 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! It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Our posts may contain affiliate links. 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. 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. Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. CNN . Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. The Great Calusa Blueway. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. There's even a nearby boat ramp so you can launch your kayaks right into the saltwater lagoon just watch out for schools of tarpon though! Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Crystal River. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Best places for kayaking in Florida. Do alligators go in the canals in Florida?