where to kayak in florida without alligators

There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. 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.. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. ]. It can be dangerous if you don't take safety precautions such as paying attention to eroded terrain while hiking and avoiding areas with loose rocks when climbing cliff walls and hillsides as well wearing adequate clothes for protection from desert temperatures or cactus damage. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. 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). 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. (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 spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. The Okaloosa County-managed Wayside Park next to the Cox Bridge section of State Road 85 near the south end of Crestview is a convenient way to get on the Shoal River. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Alligators attacking kayaks . There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. - Just Go! As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. 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. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. 1. 7. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. 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. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. 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. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. 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. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. . Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Rainbow Springs State Park. 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. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. If you see one in the wild, don't approach it. This post may contain affiliate links. 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. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. Know Now! If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Hey there kayak lovers! Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Blackwater River. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. 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? Weeki Wachee Springs. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. Ginnie Springs. 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. Wildlife exploration in Florida. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. 1. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Nature . Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. My life is all about it. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. Check availability. 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. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? If you are looking for an elusive kayaking experience in Florida sans gators, youre in luck! https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-blackwater-river-state-forest/, https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/big-bend/paddling-trail/, https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-great-kayaking-in-florida/, https://www.tripstodiscover.com/kayaking-in-florida/. So what are you waiting for? [Whats The Best Method? The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Locations such as Crystal River just north Tampa Bay offer not only gorgeous scenery but also year round protection from Florida's notorious heat providing an (often overlooked) opportunity given other areas may become quite hot during summer months. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. This site 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 consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. In summary; when seeking beautiful locations suited perfectly for entry-level paddlers interested in exploring those big bodies suchas lake Okachobee plus cozy spots suchas Bartenton Springsjust head south towards NorthwestFlorida ain't no better location t meet yer goals quite likethe Sunshine State itself - meanderingriverways lushmangroves hiddenlagoons azureblue springs & unmatched wildlife abound now matterwhere ya venture east t westsouth t north treattwo chose yer destinationwithin Floridapaddling neverends ferBeginners who seek adventurein Kayak formenjoythe ride Sunshine Staters yellGO ADVENTURE NOW!! He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. getupandgokayaking. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. . This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. 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. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Shoal River. 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? Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! CNN . Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? And dont forget your camera! This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. - Just Go! "Alligators are dangerous animals.". Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. Santa Fe River. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Best places for kayaking in Florida. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Clam Pass. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. 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. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. The alligator can hiss or bellow. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. 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. The Great Calusa Blueway. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). You know water sports you know me! 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. 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!). Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. 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. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. 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! 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. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. For those who prefer coastal paddling trips or adventures near beaches, then websites like PaddlingFinder can help narrow down searches by location proximity while also providing trip reviews from other users. One reason Ocala is among the best towns for kayaking in Florida: Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest, where the swimming is excellent if you like 72 degree water. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places 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. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. 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 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. Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends.

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