The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. locations for kayaking adventures just remember to always stay aware even when beach hopping in northward or heading down south towards Dry Tortugas National Park they arent called The Danger Islands by accidents.. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. 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! 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? Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Blackwater River. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Yet the statistics of alligator attacks seem to show that it can be done relatively safely, as long as the paddler follows a few protocols. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. Continue with Recommended Cookies. 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! Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. 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! Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 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. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. 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Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. There's nothing like a freshwater spring to keep you cool while paddling around the river or spending time listening for birdsong along its banks. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. 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? Emus, giraffes, camels, antelopes, water buffalo, and other exotic species may be seen at the Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari, which is located approximately an hour south of Orlando. >> the tail went on our 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. When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! 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 river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. Manatee River. 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. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Suwannee River Wilderness. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . 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. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Don't poke it with your paddle. For those who prefer coastal paddling trips or adventures near beaches, then websites like PaddlingFinder can help narrow down searches by location proximity while also providing trip reviews from other users. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Best Places to Stay. Don't let that put a damper on planning ahead as Florida still offers plenty tranquil spots where adventurous types can indulge in serene scenery without any predators coexisting alongside them - phew! The Lido Key Mangroves. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. 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. My life is all about it. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. The water levels fluctuate a lot, and you need to be sure that it is neither too high nor too low for you to handle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',645,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_8',645,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0_1');.medrectangle-4-multi-645{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. The way the land is situated is quite unique. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. 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. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. 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 . Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. Companies like Flamingo Flatboats Tours Inc provide guided experiences tailored around beach front recreational areas with safety rules employed to ensure encounters with wildlife remain controlled circumstances in order to preserve nature while allowing visitors insight into this unique environment. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. See wildlife like Manatees. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. Whether interested in fresh/salt/coastal paddles or discovering new necessary equipment, these organizations have made it much easier and safer than ever before locating outdoor activity centers free from gator encounters when visiting The Sunshine State! The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. This 500-acre park offers lots of open spaces as well as access to scenic parts of the Cat Fish Creek Nature Trail and Seminole Wilderness Area with impressive views along the way. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. - Just Go! 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. Complete Guide. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. CNN . With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. 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. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Silver Glen Springs. Manage Settings 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. In summary; when seeking beautiful locations suited perfectly for entry-level paddlers interested in exploring those big bodies suchas lake Okachobee plus cozy spots suchas Bartenton Springsjust head south towards NorthwestFlorida ain't no better location t meet yer goals quite likethe Sunshine State itself - meanderingriverways lushmangroves hiddenlagoons azureblue springs & unmatched wildlife abound now matterwhere ya venture east t westsouth t north treattwo chose yer destinationwithin Floridapaddling neverends ferBeginners who seek adventurein Kayak formenjoythe ride Sunshine Staters yellGO ADVENTURE NOW!! The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. 6 The Loxahatchee River. from. These are also things that one might warn a . ). 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! - Kayak-sensei. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? 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! Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. 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! Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. 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. Kayaking Myakka River. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Everglades Safari Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the last tour departs at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for adults cost . There is something for everyone. In addition there are plenty campgrounds located along this stretch so that you can take a break whenever needed and go back on the road afterwards with just minimal contact with alligators if at all!3. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. - Just Go! 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. 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. 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. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. 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!) Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Weeki Wachee Springs. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. 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. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. seminole county deputies. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. 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! 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! Never paddle alone. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. You will also come across many birds. While the idea. 8 The Hillsborough River. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. This is one of the safest places to kayak. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. 1. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. 3 Santa Fe River. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring.