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! >> oh my goodness. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? - Kayak-sensei Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. No matter where you rove about within this paradise state known for its glorious sunsets peeking through cypress stands enshrouded in clouds framing majestic everglades wetlands from which rises extraordinary wildlife choruses flocking cobalt skies at day along magical night as Venus brightens come nightfall you'll find some truly amazing non-swampy spots well worth your exploration whether it's tepid springs rippling waterways overflown riverbanks inviting blow dredge islands or shaded mangroves negotiating intra coastal passes entrenched within sizable saltwater estuaries that offer untamed paddles truly deserving any outdoor enthusiast delight pursuit! Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Group nearly attacked by gator while kayaking in Central Florida - WESH But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. The Great Calusa Blueway. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Locations such as Crystal River just north Tampa Bay offer not only gorgeous scenery but also year round protection from Florida's notorious heat providing an (often overlooked) opportunity given other areas may become quite hot during summer months. 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. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. St Johns River: For those who want to venture up North toward Jacksonville but don't want gators getting in their way - then St Johns River is definitely where they should be headed! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-box-4','ezslot_4',630,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-box-4-0'); If you are planning to kayak in water infested with alligators or you fear you might come across an alligator, you should know the typical behavior. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. However, you might run into some obstacles. . "Alligators are dangerous animals.". The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. Know Now! Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. 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. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. 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. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. 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. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. 17 Best Places to Kayak in Miami, FL - Kayak Guidance But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 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! And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. seminole county deputies. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. 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. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. Where to Kayak in Florida Without Alligators Or with them! The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Best places to kayak in Florida: 5 spots in Okaloosa, Walton counties You can read more about me on my about page. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. - Just Go! If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. The Best Kayaking in Florida: A Paddling Guide To The 10 Must-See Spots This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. 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. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. Touring the Everglades mangrove tunnels; kayaking or canoeing down Crystal River; exploring unique habitats along St. Mark's river outlet in Wakulla Springs State Park; 9-mile paddle on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail at Big Bend National Park. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Does Tarpon Bay Have Alligators? | FishingIsEasy FunOutdoorVentures.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. - Just Go! Leave no trace. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and 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. 10 best Educational field trips in Florida for families There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Kayaking In Florida: Top 23 Launch Spots Mapped Kayaking Near Me If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. There is something for everyone. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. You can be in an area that's 25 feet deep then take 2 steps and you'll be in an area that's only 10 feet. Tampa Bay, Crystal River & Spring Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Fort De Soto County Park are some of the best places to kayak in Florida. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. 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? Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. Fun Outdoor Ventures is owned and operated by Susan and 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. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. So what are you waiting for? Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Whether you want to explore the crystal clear springs, tour through peaceful mangroves, or experience the tranquility of paddling around a remote island, non-swampy locations abound across Florida's many waterways. But this goes back to respecting their territory. 1. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. 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). Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Next up on you list might be Sarasota Bay near Bradenton Beach in Sarasota County which is one great spot for beginners wanting calmer waters with less chance of windy weather or current changes like what youll find on larger bodies like Lake Okeechobee or the Gulf Coast areas like Tampa Bay or Naples Bay area along the Paradise Coast near Marco Island in Collier County. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. 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. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. 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!) Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Almost everyone new to paddling waters with alligators has the same primal fear of an attack. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. per adult. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. 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! Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. 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. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Kayaking Near Orlando (11 Great Places to Paddle) - Paddle About The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. Learn More{{/message}}. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. 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 Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Manage Settings Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. 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. A: When kayaking, its important to pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. 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. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. 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 youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. 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!). This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. >> the tail went on our kayak. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. Beautiful Natural Springs you Can't Miss! - Florida Vacationers Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. 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. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. from. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website.

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