where to kayak in florida without alligators

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. That's where we come in. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. 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. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. Yet the statistics of alligator attacks seem to show that it can be done relatively safely, as long as the paddler follows a few protocols. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. - Just Go! Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. First off on your list should be Lake Okeechobee. 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. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. 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. Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. 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. 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 beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. Contents. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. 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. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. 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. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. 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. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? April 7, 2022. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. 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. 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. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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! 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. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. This is one of the safest places to kayak. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Good luck. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Thank you! 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! 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. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! 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. 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! 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. ]. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. We love outdoor adventures! What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? - Just Go! Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. 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. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. 2. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. 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! [Whats The Best Method? Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . 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. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. 3. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. 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. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. 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! Best Places to Stay. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. 1. The water flows freely. 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: The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. We cover the whole outdoor arena. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, 9 Of The Best Places to Kayak In Central Florida, 5 Of The Canoe and Kayak Rental Tours In Central Florida, Best Places to Kayak In Florida [North, South & Central], Can Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down? This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. . So what are you waiting for? The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than 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. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. 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. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. 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. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. 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. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! 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. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. In truth, they aren't. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. With over 700 square miles of open water and plenty of sheltered coves available, this giant body of water provides plenty of opportunities to practice paddling techniques while enjoying breathtaking surroundings. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. Happy reading! So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. paddle only within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. 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. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. 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 trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Know Now! A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Crescent Lake. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. 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!! Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. In general, taking dogs into any of Florida's swampy areas is a bad idea. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. 2. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. 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. 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. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) 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. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. Locals can come to Haulover Canal to see manatees in the winter, and several tour groups offer manatee kayak tours including Get Up and Go Kayaking. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Manage Settings If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. The Loxahatchee River. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 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. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Best places for kayaking in Florida. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water.