When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. 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. 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. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. 7. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The 7 Best Mangrove Kayaking In Florida | PyeNye The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. 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. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To adventure for everyone involved. Does Tarpon Bay Have Alligators? | FishingIsEasy 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. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. - Just Go! The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Ichetucknee Springs. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. CNN . The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? - CLJ - Community Literacy Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Kayaking with Alligators - Canoe-Kayaks.com Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Kayaks Point 7 The St. Johns River. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. 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. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. 15 Things You Didn't Know About Alligators In Florida - TheTravel Check availability. Yes, it actually happens! Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Good luck. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. The park is generally considered safe for travelers who take necessary precautions for their own well-being such as being mindful about drinking only bottled water when camping out or refraining from wandering deep into trails without a guide present because borders with Mexico share common land entrances near the national park.. Other safe spots include several parks near New Smyrna Beach such as Ponce de Leon Inlet near Spruce Creek Preserve which provides an amazing journey with its large marshy creeks leading out into calm estuaries teeming with a variety wildlife--minus any gators! Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. 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. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . 6 great places to kayak and canoe in Fort Myers, Naples Florida The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. ). What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? Yet the statistics of alligator attacks seem to show that it can be done relatively safely, as long as the paddler follows a few protocols. 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. - Just Go! This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. 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). 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! This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. 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. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. seminole county deputies. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 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. 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.. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Shoal River. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. 4. 17 Top Spots for Snorkeling in Florida - American Oceans Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. 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}. However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. 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! You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. However, you might run into some obstacles. Best places for kayaking in Florida. 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. 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. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - 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. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. adventure for everyone involved. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. . 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. 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. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators : r/PonzoBlogs Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. 1. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? 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. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. 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. In addition there are plenty campgrounds located along this stretch so that you can take a break whenever needed and go back on the road afterwards with just minimal contact with alligators if at all!3. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. 1. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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! You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Alligator swims toward woman, tries to bite paddleboard at Central Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Where to Kayak in Florida Without Alligators Or with them! While the idea. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. Leave no trace. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. April 7, 2022. 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! Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. 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. 6 The Loxahatchee River. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. Is it safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Adventure Paddle Tours The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. 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. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. 10 Picturesque Places to Go Kayaking in Florida - Trips To Discover 00:58 - Source: CNN. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Starting at Everglades City, rent a kayak at one of the several outlets and head out into the famous swamp for an up close look at alligators, turtles, and ancient mangrove forests. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Read more. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. 1 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? This is one of the safest places to kayak. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? Rainbow Springs State Park. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. Dissuade alligators from residing here and create a fun-filled stress-free environment for the average kayaker to enjoy their outdoor adventure.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',127,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1-0'); The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190 mile long network of paddling routes situated along the Gulf of Mexicos coastline. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Video shows alligator near woman's paddleboard in Florida springs - WKMG As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. Kayaking in Florida. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. Don't poke it with your paddle. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. Best Places to Stay. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. 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. You can read more about me on my about page. Heading over near Tampa Bay will bring you to Weedon Island Preserve kayaking trails that wind through gorgeous coastal estuaries offering expansive views and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, osprey and more! The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. In addition there are plenty campgrounds located along this stretch so that you can take a break whenever needed and go back on the road afterwards with just minimal contact with alligators if at all! So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . 16 Best Natural Springs In Florida You Must Visit Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. >> oh my goodness. 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/. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 2. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. 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. Paddling with Alligators You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . 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. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent Learn More{{/message}}.
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