adventure for everyone involved. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. 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. >> oh my goodness. When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. ]. Best places for kayaking in Florida. Alligators rarely attack without reason, and usually won't linger in one area as long-time visitors do - this means it's important for kayakers not just be careful but also mindful of where their boats are so that any . The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. Everglades Safari Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the last tour departs at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for adults cost . To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. Our posts may contain affiliate links. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. 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. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Next up on you list might be Sarasota Bay near Bradenton Beach in Sarasota County which is one great spot for beginners wanting calmer waters with less chance of windy weather or current changes like what youll find on larger bodies like Lake Okeechobee or the Gulf Coast areas like Tampa Bay or Naples Bay area along the Paradise Coast near Marco Island in Collier County. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". We love outdoor adventures! Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. The Santa Fe River is 78 miles long, and the paddle trailer starts from swamps in north Florida to Oleno state park, where it disappears underground and appears in River state park, three miles away. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. KayaksPoint is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. 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. 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! It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. 1. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. Ginnie Springs. Nature . One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. 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! 2. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Don't throw Cheetos at it. Weeki Wachee Springs. 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. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. Complete Guide. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. 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 brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. 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! Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. 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 . Santa Fe River. A Central Florida woman says someone has been feeding a large gator after video shows it coming toward her and trying to bite her paddleboard.FOX 35 Orlando . 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! It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. 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 Great Calusa Blueway. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. 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. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. Silver Glen Springs. 8 The Hillsborough River. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. 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? 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. 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. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. 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). Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. 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.. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 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. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. You know water sports you know me! Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. More About James R Rockey at About Page Here: AuthorsBased on his experiences with the different types of kayaks, he is sharing his opinion about kayaking tricks and required gears so that a beginner can get started right away.Find his team on Twitter here. Crystal River. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. 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. The Lido Key Mangroves. 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. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. Wildlife exploration in Florida. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters!