Alligators are just as afraid of us as we are of them, so typically if a kayak enters an alligator area, they will duck below the water and hide. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. 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. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! 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. 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. We love outdoor adventures! 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.. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. During the mating season, alligators can also be aggressive because it is warmer and their metabolism is high, making them hungry and desperately searching for food. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Manage Settings So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. 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! You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. The Okaloosa County-managed Wayside Park next to the Cox Bridge section of State Road 85 near the south end of Crestview is a convenient way to get on the Shoal River. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. 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! Happy reading! But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Tarpon Springs, Florida. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! The water flows freely. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Ichetucknee Springs. 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. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. 7. - Kayak-sensei. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. 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. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. [Whats The Best Method? Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. 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. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! 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. 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 an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. 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! These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. 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. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. The alligator can hiss or bellow. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. 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! If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. Santa Fe River. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. 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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. - Just Go! In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? 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. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. 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. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. 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 . You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. Blackwater River. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Manage Settings The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. In truth, they aren't. 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. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? 2. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. Wildlife exploration in Florida. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. 6 The Loxahatchee River. 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. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. 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. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. per adult. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. >> the tail went on our kayak. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. KayaksPoint is a blog about kayaking, canoeing and various activities based on kayaks like fishing, adventures, trips, destinations, kayak gears, boats, and your go-to resources! This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? 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. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Our posts may contain affiliate links. 1. 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? Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. 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. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. 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. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. 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? In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 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. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. 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. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. (Kayak Drowning Possibilities), List Of Top Kayak Swimwear Brands Of USA; What To Wear When Kayaking, The Santa Fe River is a tributary of the Suwannee River and is approximately 78 miles (126 kilometers) long and has a watershed of approximately 1,380 square miles, Weeki Wachee Spring is a natural spring located in Weeki Wachee, Florida and it is a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. 1. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. time to kayak out of the area into safety. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Crescent Lake. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. Kayakers should note that this destination isn't exactly crocodile free - after all wildlife do roam here - however sightings tend to be more rare in these regions (but still stay alert!). Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. 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. . Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Kayak rentals are available here if needed or you can bring your own equipment.. Florida's east coast has something special stored up north near Jacksonville: Little Talbot Island State Park which features awesome sandy dunes and beachfront access points directly onto lush barrier island marshes perfect for some day paddling or camping trips; plus no risk getting up close & personal with any crocodiles this time! 3. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. 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. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. . Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. adventure for everyone involved. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. It is advised that you take a shuttle back to the starting point; however, you know how much you can handle so you can paddle back if you can. 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. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! 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. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. Suwannee River Wilderness. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. 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! So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! 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. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Blackwater River. 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. 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. 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! from. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable.