where to kayak in florida without alligators where to kayak in florida without alligators

The alligator can hiss or bellow. Manage Settings Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? 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. The 7 Best Mangrove Kayaking In Florida | PyeNye Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. Kayaking With Alligators in Florida - Fun, Dangerous, and Necessary 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. 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? The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Leave no trace. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. This is one of the safest places to kayak. In truth, they aren't. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! 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. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Our posts may contain affiliate links. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. 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. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. 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. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. 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. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. from. Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. 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. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. Manatee River. $80.00. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? - Just Go! Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Get into some mangrove areas. 5 The Manatee River. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. Alligator that menaced paddleboarder in viral video is killed by Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. The Lido Key Mangroves. Read more. If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. Where to See Alligators in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. 16 Best Natural Springs In Florida You Must Visit 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. 1. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. 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. 6 The Loxahatchee River. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. 17 Top Spots for Snorkeling in Florida - American Oceans Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. 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.. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. 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 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. Is it Safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Wild Louisiana Tours this is why I only kayak in my bathtub. : r/watchpeoplesurvive - reddit Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. 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. Clam Pass. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The alligators seldom attack a kayak if left alone, but there is always a risk when dealing with large predators. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 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. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. 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!) 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. 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! 6. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. (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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. You can read more about me on my about page. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. The Loxahatchee River. Crescent Lake. time to kayak out of the area into safety. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? 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!! A post shared by Dry Tortugas National Park (@drytortugasnps) One of the best snorkeling spots in Florida is located 70 miles west of Key West. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. There's nothing like a freshwater spring to keep you cool while paddling around the river or spending time listening for birdsong along its banks. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? |Tricks To Stay Safe In 2023 1. 15 Unique Places To Go Kayaking In Florida - Florida Trippers For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 1. The Best Kayaking in Florida: A Paddling Guide To The 10 Must-See Spots Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. But when you get in the way of the alligator and its safety, its not a good sign as it will probably attack your kayak because it will feel cornered. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. The Best Places to Kayak in Bradenton Florida Revealed! Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Yes! It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. 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. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. 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 river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. 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: Heading over near Tampa Bay will bring you to Weedon Island Preserve kayaking trails that wind through gorgeous coastal estuaries offering expansive views and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, osprey and more! Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Minutes away from Cocoa Beach, enjoy an "old Florida" mangrove tunnel called "The Amazon" in the Thousand Islands with Cocoa Beach Kayak as a naturalist guide that provides insight into this magical world. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. 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! . Kayaking with Alligators - Canoe-Kayaks.com With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. 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. 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!) According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. Check availability. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators: In-depth - KayaksHome Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! 4. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. 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.. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. 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. An alligator slammed into the side of a kayak, tipping the boater into My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Fun Outdoor Ventures So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . 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. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. 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. 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. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any 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. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). 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. The Alligator Safety Tips You Need to Know BEFORE You Visit Florida There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. 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 . ). CNN . The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. 7 The St. Johns River. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. 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. 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! With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. 2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Travel Youman Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. 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. 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. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. 8 The Hillsborough River. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. Finally pay homage to ancient tradition by visiting multiple areas on Tampa Bay that were once used as traditional Seminole fishing camps during times past! 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 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! It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. Best Places to Stay. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Wildlife Kayak or Paddleboard or Clear Kayak Adventure Tour Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. 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/. You can be in an area that's 25 feet deep then take 2 steps and you'll be in an area that's only 10 feet. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. 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! As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. In addition head South towards Everglades National Park - absolutely one fo the best spots for kayaking in all of Florida--for an incredible saltwater adventure across shallow channels and coastal flats consisting mostly mudflats but also patches of oyster bars interspersed between lagoons teeming with wildlife such as wading birds gliding across glass like reflections offered by oddly colored greenish waters below flooded sawgrass meadows illuminated by dazzling sunlight above! Is it safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Adventure Paddle Tours Don't let that put a damper on planning ahead as Florida still offers plenty tranquil spots where adventurous types can indulge in serene scenery without any predators coexisting alongside them - phew! Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. Escape from it all in this swampy spot perfect for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . 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! https://www.kayak-sensei.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. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Everything You Need To This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations.