In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. 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. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. adventure for everyone involved. 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, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. - Just Go! Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. 5 The Manatee River. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. 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. It would help if you kept as much distance between you and the alligator as possible. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . 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 Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. The Great Calusa Blueway. 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. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. We cover the whole outdoor arena. Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is 246 miles long and it offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding wilderness, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, etc. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Although Florida has a large alligator population. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. Yes! 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? Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? The Great Calusa Blueway. Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). 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. Manatee River. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? 7 The St. Johns River. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. 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). - Just Go! 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. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Don't throw Cheetos at it. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. 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!) General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. Read more. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. 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. This is one of the safest places to kayak. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. This will put you and your dog in more danger.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-banner-1-0'); You should try to keep a distance of at least 30 feet if you can. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! 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. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. 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. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. With stunning scenery, clear water, wondrous rock formations, and banks lined with majestic cypress trees, the 6 mile long Ichetuknee River is a wonder to kayak. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Weeki Wachee Springs. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". It is also great for all levels of kayakers. 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. 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. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. In addition there are two wonderful refuges nearby Big Pass near Lido Key which sometimes provides seasonal manatee sightings when paddling around calm waters here - as well as Little Sarasota Bay just across US 41 from Siesta Key where secluded bays ringed with luxuriant foliage provide shelter from most sea-breezes coming up from further south which makes finding safe places to paddle fun even on windier days! Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. However, you might run into some obstacles. When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. 2 Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Just about 90 minutes north of Tampa Bay, Crystal River is actually a large network of about 40 natural springs, originating in King's Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.Only accessible by boat, Crystal River has earned its nickname as a "water lover's paradise" with a multitude of activities and wildlife to see. 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 . The Loxahatchee River. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. There is something for everyone. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. See wildlife like Manatees. Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. 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! Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. 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? This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. 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. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. 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!) Complete Guide. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Rainbow Springs State Park. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Silver Glen Springs. 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. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. The way the land is situated is quite unique. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. ). 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Get into some mangrove areas. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. 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!). You know water sports you know me! 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. 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. There's even a nearby boat ramp so you can launch your kayaks right into the saltwater lagoon just watch out for schools of tarpon though! $80.00. If the idea of alligators in the water with you is just too much to handle, there are plenty of salt water kayaking options in Florida. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! 2. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. 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.. Check availability. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. 1. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. 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. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. Yes, it actually happens! 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. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? It's a good idea to run away if you can get away from an alligator with a distance of around 20 or 30 feet. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Some of these places have alligator populations living close by, and others are entirely alligator-free. 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. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! The Lido Key Mangroves. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. 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. Never paddle alone. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. 4. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. 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. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. The water flows freely. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. 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. Learn More{{/message}}. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. getupandgokayaking. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. 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. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. 2. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Little Manatee River, Wimauma. Yes, there are alligators in Big Bend State Park. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. 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! The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site.