Suwannee River Wilderness. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! 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. 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. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Rainbow Springs State Park. 4. 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. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. 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. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. 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! You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 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.. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! Florida wildlife officials have now killed a nearly 12-foot alligator that swam within inches of a frightened paddleboarder in a popular state park during an encounter in September recorded on video that went viral. . By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. 00:58 - Source: CNN. But this goes back to respecting their territory. However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. We cover the whole outdoor arena. Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? So, it would have been very easy for someone to take an egg or a hatchling home, just kind of without anyone noticing," Jarrod Forthman . You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. 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. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. 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. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . 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. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. 1. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! 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 common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. 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. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Santa Fe River. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. - Just Go! In addition head South towards Everglades National Park - absolutely one fo the best spots for kayaking in all of Florida--for an incredible saltwater adventure across shallow channels and coastal flats consisting mostly mudflats but also patches of oyster bars interspersed between lagoons teeming with wildlife such as wading birds gliding across glass like reflections offered by oddly colored greenish waters below flooded sawgrass meadows illuminated by dazzling sunlight above! 3 Santa Fe River. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. If your preference is saltwater paddling opportunities instead, then websites such as KayakFloridaKeys offer great suggestions for all levels of skill including beginner friendly trips from Key Largo all the way down through Dry Tortugas National Park near Key West. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. 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? 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. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. 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. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. 8 The Hillsborough River. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! With over 700 square miles of open water and plenty of sheltered coves available, this giant body of water provides plenty of opportunities to practice paddling techniques while enjoying breathtaking surroundings. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. adventure for everyone involved. Yes! 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. Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. My life is all about it. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Our posts may contain affiliate links. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! While the idea. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Blackwater River. 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. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Ginnie Springs. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. Dry Tortugas National Park protects a small island chain and its wildlife. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. 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! What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? Blackwater River. 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. This will put you and your dog in more danger.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-banner-1-0'); You should try to keep a distance of at least 30 feet if you can. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. 6 The Loxahatchee River. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. The alligator can hiss or bellow. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. The Loxahatchee River. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. Search no more! Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. You will also come across many birds. References:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',632,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rockey is a kayaking enthusiast who has been kayaking with a local group for the last five years. 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 . Weeki Wachee Springs. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. 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! If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. 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. Crescent Lake. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. 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. - Just Go! And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. 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. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have 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. Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. Starting at Everglades City, rent a kayak at one of the several outlets and head out into the famous swamp for an up close look at alligators, turtles, and ancient mangrove forests. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. The way the land is situated is quite unique. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . Minutes away from Cocoa Beach, enjoy an "old Florida" mangrove tunnel called "The Amazon" in the Thousand Islands with Cocoa Beach Kayak as a naturalist guide that provides insight into this magical world. 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}. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. 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. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? 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. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Clam Pass. 3. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. . It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. 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. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . Read more. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. 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! Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. You know water sports you know me! 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Best places for kayaking in Florida. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. 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. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. CNN . You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters.
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