The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Complete Guide. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. 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. 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. We love outdoor adventures! Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. 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. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Dissuade alligators from residing here and create a fun-filled stress-free environment for the average kayaker to enjoy their outdoor adventure.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',127,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1-0'); The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190 mile long network of paddling routes situated along the Gulf of Mexicos coastline. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. 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. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. 3. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 6. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. The best area to kayak in Bradenton is right by Coquina Beach: Coquina Beach is also known as Bradenton Beach and there is a giant bay area next to it where there are many open water and kayaking trails available to do the following things: Just explore the area. 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! 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. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. In truth, they aren't. Suwannee River Wilderness. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. $80.00. It's a good idea to run away if you can get away from an alligator with a distance of around 20 or 30 feet. When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. If you would prefer to do a kayaking tour in a saltwater environment, here are some great options: Florida springs are the real star of Florida kayaking. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. 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. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. - Just Go! However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. The " higher central hills " of FL down the middle of the state have to least alligators, the driest land fewest ponds and swamps, and - obviously - the most hills, grass, trees, brush and forest lands. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. And dont forget your camera! Kayaking Myakka River. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of 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. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. 2. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. 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! The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! Silver Glen Springs. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. The Lido Key Mangroves. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. 8 Florida Everglades Alligator Attack: 9 Common alligator behavior; 10 What time of day are alligators most active? The Nile crocodile has the largest body count of crocs due to people having to go to the edge of the river for water ect. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. locations for kayaking adventures just remember to always stay aware even when beach hopping in northward or heading down south towards Dry Tortugas National Park they arent called The Danger Islands by accidents.. 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. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. 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! Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. 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. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. LAUNCH ON GOOGLE MAPS. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. 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. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. Additionally alongside most springs you'll often find campgrounds providing convenient spots often right alongside waterways allowing visitors ample opportunity dip their boats into cool temperatures 365 days outa' year while having a basecamp they can return each day after paddlin' round larger regions - this gives newcomer kayakers ample time refine their craft before hitting bigger open waters later down the line if desired at all! We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. What Kind of Boat Was Used in the Movie Jaws? Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. So I wanted to share the benefit of my years of experience as a Florida paddler kayaking and canoeing by . It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. 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. Weeki Wachee Springs. 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! Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! We cover the whole outdoor arena. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. 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. There is no doubt about unlimited kayaking adventurers in Florida. The way the land is situated is quite unique. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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.