This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. 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! Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA, Top 10 Places to Kayak in Florida (2020 Update), Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators Travel Youman, Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? With zero pressure from swimmers or motor boats it's perfect for those wanting a less invaded area and its completely free from alligator presence too! So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Anastasia State Park Camping: A Guide for Florida Travelers Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. Yes! There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. 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!) When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? The 31-mile trail winds through the Blackwater River State Forest and offers viewings of one of the most pristine sand-bottomed rivers on the planet, which varies in color from a rich coffee brown to light yellow, depending on the depth. Do alligators go in the canals in Florida? But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. 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! 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. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. 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. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? The Best Places to Kayak in Bradenton Florida Revealed! The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. 15 Best Lakes in Florida | PlanetWare There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. 17 Top Spots for Snorkeling in Florida - American Oceans Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida? A Practical Guide Before You Head Out Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. 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. 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. Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. What are the risks to canoeists and kayakers from 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! The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. 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! 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. (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. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. >> oh my goodness. The 10 Best Places to Paddle Board in Florida | ISLE | Blog 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! Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. 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! Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. 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. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. This is one of the safest places to kayak. 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. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. 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. Know Now! You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. 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. 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. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Does Tarpon Bay Have Alligators? | FishingIsEasy Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. In truth, they aren't. The Best Kayaking in Florida: A Paddling Guide To The 10 Must-See Spots The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. 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.. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. 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. Although Florida is known for its alligators, there are plenty of places in the sunshine state that offer paddling opportunities without the fear of coming face-to-face with one. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? 3 Santa Fe River. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. 8 The Hillsborough River. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? 6 great places to kayak and canoe in Fort Myers, Naples Florida Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. 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). You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Is it Safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Wild Louisiana Tours What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. 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. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. The Lido Key Mangroves. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. If your preference is saltwater paddling opportunities instead, then websites such as KayakFloridaKeys offer great suggestions for all levels of skill including beginner friendly trips from Key Largo all the way down through Dry Tortugas National Park near Key West. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. Where to kayak in florida without alligators? - cgaa.org 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;}. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Is It Safe To Kayak With Alligators? 8 Safety Tips & More 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. 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. However, you might run into some obstacles. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Kayaks Point 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. You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To The 12 Best Places to Kayak in Florida For a Perfect Paddle! Clam Pass. The variety here is breathtaking as visitors paddle up low lying creeks where they can gaze at remarkable birds among pristine trees draped in mosses and lichens before reconnecting with their destination shoreline. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. 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. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Where to See Alligators in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA Is It Safe to Kayak During Alligator Mating Season? (Solved) Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. " Silver Glen Springs (Marion County, FL) " by, Paul Clark licensed under CC BY 2.0. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? 9 Best Place For You (2022) 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. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Crescent Lake. The 15 Best Everglades Airboat and Swamp Tours - US News & World Report Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. 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. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! The way the land is situated is quite unique. 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. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. 16 Best Natural Springs In Florida You Must Visit 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. 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! Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. Essential Tips to Follow. time to kayak out of the area into safety. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Thank you! Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. The " higher central hills " of FL down the middle of the state have to least alligators, the driest land fewest ponds and swamps, and - obviously - the most hills, grass, trees, brush and forest lands. 7. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. 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. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. 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. getupandgokayaking. Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program | FWC - Florida Fish And Wildlife Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Regardless which slice of Floridian paradise you choose, remember there are still unforeseen threats such as snakes hidden among rock formations along your path that should remain top priority during any amount time spent outdoors. Kayaking Myakka River. 00:58 - Source: CNN. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings.