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. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. We love outdoor adventures! 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. 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!) 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. It is advised that you take a shuttle back to the starting point; however, you know how much you can handle so you can paddle back if you can. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Nature . Essential Tips to Follow. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. CNN . Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! The Suwannee River: Start off in the swamps north of Okeechobee, then head along this stunning river as it winds its way towards Suwannees outlet bay coasts near Tampa Bay! In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. Complete Guide. Never paddle alone. 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! In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. Contents. Learn More{{/message}}. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Don't throw Cheetos at it. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. 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). They can also move quickly on land. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. 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.. 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. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. 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. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. 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. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? 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. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. 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. Alligators attacking kayaks . There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. This river is easily navigable on your own, but you will have a more informative trip if you decide to take one of the guided tours. Kayaking Myakka River. He loves using kayaks while out on outings on the water or camping when the friends want to have a BBQ party somewhere on the bank of a local lake. Check availability. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. 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 order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. 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. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. And dont forget your camera! There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. 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. But this goes back to respecting their territory. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Good luck. Thank you! A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . 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. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. This is one of the safest places to kayak. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. 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? 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. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Yes, it actually happens! Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. 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! 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! This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. This post may contain affiliate links. getupandgokayaking. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. 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 area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. . 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! This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. Suwannee River Wilderness. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. 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. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. 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. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. These are also things that one might warn a . This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. 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. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. 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. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Hey there kayak lovers! Manatee River. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! 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? 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. The Nile crocodile has the largest body count of crocs due to people having to go to the edge of the river for water ect. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. 7. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. - Kayak-sensei. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. 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. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Crescent Lake. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. 1. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. 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 kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 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. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . 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. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. 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. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. The Loxahatchee River. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures.