8 The Hillsborough River. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! In truth, they aren't. 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. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. Bear in mind that the John Pennekamp Coral Reef is very popular over the weekends, especially if it is good weather, attracting crowds of kayakers and people on jet skis and motorboats.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-box-4','ezslot_2',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-box-4-0'); For the average kayaker, open-water paddling in the protection of the mangrove wilderness is a calming experience. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. 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! 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. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Ichetucknee Springs. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? 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! So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! And if luck favors - anglers can also find largemouth basses swimming across this clean river as well making fishing quite enjoyable too at times during peak seasons alright? When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. You know water sports you know me! This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? Contents. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. Our posts may contain affiliate links. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. 5 The Manatee River. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. from. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. Crescent Lake. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. 4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 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. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. The alligator can hiss or bellow. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of 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!) 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. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Crystal River. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. . But when you get in the way of the alligator and its safety, its not a good sign as it will probably attack your kayak because it will feel cornered. Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. 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. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Never paddle alone. Tarpon Springs, Florida. 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. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Don't throw Cheetos at it. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. 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. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. 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. Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-blackwater-river-state-forest/, https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/big-bend/paddling-trail/, https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-great-kayaking-in-florida/, https://www.tripstodiscover.com/kayaking-in-florida/. Blackwater River. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. time to kayak out of the area into safety. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. Get into some mangrove areas. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. 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. So what are you waiting for? Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? Don't poke it with your paddle. The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) 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. The Loxahatchee River. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 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. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. 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.. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. After so much time spent on a kayak, grab some food at one off the great seafood restaurants dotted around Bonita Springs if hunger pangs set while out on the lake. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? 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). The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. 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. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. seminole county deputies. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. Thank you! So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. 3. 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. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. 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. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. 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. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . 7 The St. Johns River. 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..