Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. 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. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. 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. locations for kayaking adventures just remember to always stay aware even when beach hopping in northward or heading down south towards Dry Tortugas National Park they arent called The Danger Islands by accidents.. 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. 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. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . The Nile crocodile has the largest body count of crocs due to people having to go to the edge of the river for water ect. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! You will also come across many birds. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. . All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Read more. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. This is one of the safest places to kayak. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? 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/. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? 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. In truth, they aren't. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. $80.00. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. See wildlife like Manatees. 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. getupandgokayaking. 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. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). In addition there are two wonderful refuges nearby Big Pass near Lido Key which sometimes provides seasonal manatee sightings when paddling around calm waters here - as well as Little Sarasota Bay just across US 41 from Siesta Key where secluded bays ringed with luxuriant foliage provide shelter from most sea-breezes coming up from further south which makes finding safe places to paddle fun even on windier days! Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Hey there kayak lovers! But this goes back to respecting their territory. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Keep in mind that due to its size Lake Okeechobee can sometimes experience windy weather so its important to be aware and prepared for more challenging conditions than expected when venturing out here. . According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! You should take the following precautions in case of an encounter: If you plan on kayaking in alligator-infested waters, you should ensure not to bring your dog. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! Little Manatee River, Wimauma. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in 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. 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! Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. 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. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. 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. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? 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. 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! It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. If you're a fan of kayaking and love the Sunshine State, but don't want to worry about running into any alligators, there are still plenty of places where you can safely paddle around. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. 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. Contents. 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. 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. Get into some mangrove areas. My life is all about it. 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! Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without 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. Ginnie Springs. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. 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! Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. 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!! Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Blackwater River. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. 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. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. 3. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. 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. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. 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. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. time to kayak out of the area into safety. 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? 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. 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. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. - Just Go! Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. adventure for everyone involved. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. 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. Nature . Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. 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 . kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Crescent Lake. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. 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!). The Lido Key Mangroves. 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? Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. 5 The Manatee River. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. 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. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. The way the land is situated is quite unique. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! The Loxahatchee River. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. 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Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. Check availability. 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! You know water sports you know me! Search no more! Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. 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. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. - Just Go! Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! 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. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Yes! The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. CNN . 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. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily.