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. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. 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. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! Ginnie Springs. Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer. 8 Best Places to Kayak in Florida (And Avoid Alligators) 4. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. 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. Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Kayak Gator Free!! The Best Kayaking in Florida: A Paddling Guide To The 10 Must-See Spots [Whats The Best Method? 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!). A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 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. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. 8 The Hillsborough River. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. Search no more! Read more. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Yes! The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. Complete Guide. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. 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, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. References:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',632,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rockey is a kayaking enthusiast who has been kayaking with a local group for the last five years. 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. It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Best places to kayak in Florida: 5 spots in Okaloosa, Walton counties Copyright 2023 Just Go! KayaksPoint is a blog about kayaking, canoeing and various activities based on kayaks like fishing, adventures, trips, destinations, kayak gears, boats, and your go-to resources! You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. 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? Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? - TimesMojo Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. Kayaking with Alligators - Canoe-Kayaks.com When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. After so much time spent on a kayak, grab some food at one off the great seafood restaurants dotted around Bonita Springs if hunger pangs set while out on the lake. (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. 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. The Lido Key Mangroves. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. The Great Calusa Blueway. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. 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. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. 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 Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. The alligator can hiss or bellow. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. Clam Pass. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. 2 where to kayak in florida without alligators; 3 Santa Fe River; 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River; 5 The Manatee River; 6 Madison Blue Spring State Park; 7 Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) Video shows alligator near woman's paddleboard in Florida springs - WKMG 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! Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. An alligator slammed into the side of a kayak, tipping the boater into And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. from. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . seminole county deputies. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Fun Outdoor Ventures 6. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Paddling with Alligators 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? Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Is It Safe To Kayak With Alligators? 8 Safety Tips & More 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. 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. These are also things that one might warn a . The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Blackwater River. There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. 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. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? Is it safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Adventure Paddle Tours Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Little Manatee River, Wimauma. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Perhaps the most famous of the Sunshine State's natural springs, Ginnie Springs has some of the best kayaking in Florida. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? 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! 6 The Loxahatchee River. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. - Just Go! So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. 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. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. Blackwater River. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. This 500-acre park offers lots of open spaces as well as access to scenic parts of the Cat Fish Creek Nature Trail and Seminole Wilderness Area with impressive views along the way. The best places to kayak with manatees in Florida are: Weeki Wacchee State Park is the best place to go kayaking with manatees in Florida, especially for inexperienced kayakers. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. CNN . Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. . 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. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. 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;}. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. 15 Things You Didn't Know About Alligators In Florida - TheTravel Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. 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. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. 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. An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. 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. Rainbow Springs State Park. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Alligator swims toward woman, tries to bite paddleboard at Central - Just Go! Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. 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. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. 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 their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. What are the risks to canoeists and kayakers from alligators? This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? 9 Best Place For You (2022) Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. The 15 Best Everglades Airboat and Swamp Tours - US News & World Report The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: 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 . 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. 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. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. ]. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. The 10 Best Places to Paddle Board in Florida | ISLE | Blog So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To Alligators attacking kayaks . Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. Florida is full of breathtakingly beautiful waterways, but it's important to remember that the Everglades wetlands areas are favorite habitat for some 12-foot long creatures! Ichetucknee Springs. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! Don't poke it with your paddle. Beautiful Natural Springs you Can't Miss! - Florida Vacationers This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. 1.1 Rainbow River: 1.2 Lake Eola: 1.3 Crystal River: 1.4 Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: 1.5 Little Manatee River State Park: Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". The best area to kayak in Bradenton is right by Coquina Beach: Coquina Beach is also known as Bradenton Beach and there is a giant bay area next to it where there are many open water and kayaking trails available to do the following things: Just explore the area. Get into some mangrove areas. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. Manage Settings Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Nature . We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. $80.00. 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. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away.