Don't throw Cheetos at it. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. - Just Go! It is advised that you take a shuttle back to the starting point; however, you know how much you can handle so you can paddle back if you can. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. 3. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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 water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. 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. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. from. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. seminole county deputies. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . 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. 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. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. . Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). It's beautiful, easy to access and also has . 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. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. The 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! Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? 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. 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! And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Despite the name Ten Thousand Islands, there are just over a couple hundred islands (still plenty! 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. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Alligators are more likely to attack if they mistake you for prey, so wearing brightly colored clothing will help them identify you as a human. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. So, it would have been very easy for someone to take an egg or a hatchling home, just kind of without anyone noticing," Jarrod Forthman . Never paddle alone. An alligator may be timid of kayakers, but they can be aggressive in specific periods. The water levels fluctuate a lot, and you need to be sure that it is neither too high nor too low for you to handle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',645,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_8',645,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0_1');.medrectangle-4-multi-645{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Yes! Know Now! Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. The way the land is situated is quite unique. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. 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. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. This area consists mainly marshland waters where kayakers can take small trips via networked canoe trails without having to worry too much about gators being around every corner! Rainbow Springs State Park. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. My life is all about it. Contents. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. During the mating season, alligators can also be aggressive because it is warmer and their metabolism is high, making them hungry and desperately searching for food. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. 8 The Hillsborough River. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Although Florida is known for its alligators, there are plenty of places in the sunshine state that offer paddling opportunities without the fear of coming face-to-face with one. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! 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. Thank you! Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. . 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. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. The park is generally considered safe for travelers who take necessary precautions for their own well-being such as being mindful about drinking only bottled water when camping out or refraining from wandering deep into trails without a guide present because borders with Mexico share common land entrances near the national park.. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. 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! There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? 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. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. adventure for everyone involved. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. 1. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. 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. 3 Santa Fe River. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Nature . 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!) If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. - Just Go! You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. If your preference is saltwater paddling opportunities instead, then websites such as KayakFloridaKeys offer great suggestions for all levels of skill including beginner friendly trips from Key Largo all the way down through Dry Tortugas National Park near Key West. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. These include: Looking for places to kayak in Florida that dont have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. 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? For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Tampa Bay, Crystal River & Spring Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Fort De Soto County Park are some of the best places to kayak in Florida. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Best places for kayaking in Florida. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. The water stay shallow and calm, perfect if you want to avoid any alligator encounters. Complete Guide. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. 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! Although Florida has a large alligator population. When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. 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. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Get into some mangrove areas. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. 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. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. 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. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? 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. 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. 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. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. 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 wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. 2. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. 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! Little Manatee River, Wimauma. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 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! This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. The Great Calusa Blueway. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Kayak rentals are available here if needed or you can bring your own equipment.. Florida's east coast has something special stored up north near Jacksonville: Little Talbot Island State Park which features awesome sandy dunes and beachfront access points directly onto lush barrier island marshes perfect for some day paddling or camping trips; plus no risk getting up close & personal with any crocodiles this time!
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