where to kayak in florida without alligators

Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. Alligators look for easy prey, and a dog of any size can fall victim. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. In addition there are two wonderful refuges nearby Big Pass near Lido Key which sometimes provides seasonal manatee sightings when paddling around calm waters here - as well as Little Sarasota Bay just across US 41 from Siesta Key where secluded bays ringed with luxuriant foliage provide shelter from most sea-breezes coming up from further south which makes finding safe places to paddle fun even on windier days! By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. 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. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. This post may contain affiliate links. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. 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! Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. Blackwater River. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. . If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. 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. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. Crescent Lake. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Manatee River. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! The way the land is situated is quite unique. 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. The Silver River is known for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_River_(Florida), https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/suwannee-river-wilderness-state-trail, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_River_(Florida). >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. It offers facilities as well with accommodation available even overnight. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Happy reading! 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.. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. 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. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. . John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. 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. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. April 7, 2022. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. 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. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. 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. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. This is one of the safest places to kayak. Alligators in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas all seem to be found in the southern regions of the state. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. "Alligators will have a nest of 50, 60 eggs at a time. Yes! Alligators can be found in fresh and brackish bodies of water, and there is an estimated 6.7 million acres of suitable habitat statewide. 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. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. 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.. Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? 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). Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. 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. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. 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. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. Florida has some of the most picturesque, natural springs in the world. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . You'll love going for a swim or paddle boarding through the ice-blue waters. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. 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. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? The only clear vessel is our Clear 2-Person Kayak, the weight limit for clear kayaks is 400lbs. KayaksPoint is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. 00:58 - Source: CNN. 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. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. That's where we come in. Shoal River. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. SOUTH FLORIDA Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. 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. 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. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. 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! 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 . Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! 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. Santa Fe River. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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! Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Finally if neither of these take your fancy why not try Lake Wales? Get into some mangrove areas. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Our posts may contain affiliate links. Fortunately, though, Florida has no shortage of other channels and waterfronts that offer wonderful opportunities for kayakers of all experience levels. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. Ginnie Springs. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. 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. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? >> the tail went on our kayak. This is a wonderful spot for kayaking thanks to its gentle waters and wide array of wildlife that inhabits the wetlands. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) 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 should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Copyright 2023 Just Go! This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. In truth, they aren't. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. 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! Little Manatee River, Wimauma. While the idea. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. 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. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along 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. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. 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! Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. 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. 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. 1. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons.

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