where to kayak in florida without alligators where to kayak in florida without alligators

Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Contents. 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! Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. The best area to kayak in Bradenton is right by Coquina Beach: Coquina Beach is also known as Bradenton Beach and there is a giant bay area next to it where there are many open water and kayaking trails available to do the following things: Just explore the area. 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! Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? adventure for everyone involved. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . We love outdoor adventures! Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. These include: Looking for places to kayak in Florida that dont have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. 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! Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. 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!) (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Manage Settings 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. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . 7. 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. 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. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. Silver Glen Springs. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Clam Pass. Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. 2. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. 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 . Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. See wildlife like Manatees. 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. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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). General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. 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! A post shared by Dry Tortugas National Park (@drytortugasnps) One of the best snorkeling spots in Florida is located 70 miles west of Key West. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. 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. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: 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. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. Get into some mangrove areas. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. 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. Suwannee River Wilderness. Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. The Santa Fe River is 78 miles long, and the paddle trailer starts from swamps in north Florida to Oleno state park, where it disappears underground and appears in River state park, three miles away. 1. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. 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! Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. [Whats The Best Method? Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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! Thank you! Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. Rainbow Springs State Park. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Located in the Ocala National Forest, you'll find that this hidden gem is less crowded than some of the other kayak spots around Orlando. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. 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 in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. time to kayak out of the area into safety. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. 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. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 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. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Blackwater River. 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! Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. In truth, they aren't. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. 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. This is one of the safest places to kayak. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. 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. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Regardless which slice of Floridian paradise you choose, remember there are still unforeseen threats such as snakes hidden among rock formations along your path that should remain top priority during any amount time spent outdoors. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. Learn More{{/message}}. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. 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. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. 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. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Looking for places to kayak in Florida that don't have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. You know water sports you know me! LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Complete Guide. KayaksPoint is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. 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 have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. 7 The St. Johns River. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. 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. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. However, you might run into some obstacles. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. Nature . We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. 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. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is 246 miles long and it offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding wilderness, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, etc. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? We cover the whole outdoor arena. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. 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! A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. 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. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. 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. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. 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. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters!