And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. In summary, although there are potential risks associated with taking part in wildlife-filled waters throughout points in Florida, there still exist plenty of reputable sources which can guide individuals on finding aquatic recreational experiences away from human/alligator interactions. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Rainbow Springs State Park. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 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. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. 1. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. The Great Calusa Blueway. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. 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. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? Hey there kayak lovers! Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. Crystal River. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. 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! 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. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. My life is all about it. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. 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. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Clam Pass. 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! 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/. 7. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. 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. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. Crescent Lake. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 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. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. 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. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. 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. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Never paddle alone. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. 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! You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? 2. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. - Just Go! For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. 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! 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 these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! (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. - Just Go! Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. 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. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. [Whats The Best Method? Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Whether interested in fresh/salt/coastal paddles or discovering new necessary equipment, these organizations have made it much easier and safer than ever before locating outdoor activity centers free from gator encounters when visiting The Sunshine State! A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. 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}. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! getupandgokayaking. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Be sure to head over towards Apalachicola when visiting Northwest Florida an area full of sugar sand beaches, marshes and islands made specifically for kayak exploration! But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. per adult. And dont forget your camera! We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Thank you! Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . The Lido Key Mangroves. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. 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. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. 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) 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! And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. 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. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! But this goes back to respecting their territory. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. 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! Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. In summary; when seeking beautiful locations suited perfectly for entry-level paddlers interested in exploring those big bodies suchas lake Okachobee plus cozy spots suchas Bartenton Springsjust head south towards NorthwestFlorida ain't no better location t meet yer goals quite likethe Sunshine State itself - meanderingriverways lushmangroves hiddenlagoons azureblue springs & unmatched wildlife abound now matterwhere ya venture east t westsouth t north treattwo chose yer destinationwithin Floridapaddling neverends ferBeginners who seek adventurein Kayak formenjoythe ride Sunshine Staters yellGO ADVENTURE NOW!! Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 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. Just about 90 minutes north of Tampa Bay, Crystal River is actually a large network of about 40 natural springs, originating in King's Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.Only accessible by boat, Crystal River has earned its nickname as a "water lover's paradise" with a multitude of activities and wildlife to see. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. This post may contain affiliate links. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by.
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