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. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. ]. 1. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. Video shows alligator near woman's paddleboard in Florida springs - WKMG Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. The way the land is situated is quite unique. 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River. 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. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. 00:58 - Source: CNN. 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. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? |Tricks To Stay Safe In 2023 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. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. The Lower Keys offer spectacular kayaking opportunities throughout Bahia Honda State park or Key West National Wildlife Refuge as well as numerous backcountry routes such as Coke Hole Cut near Big Pine Key or Nine Mile Bank south of Sugarloaf Cove. Is it Safe to Kayak with Alligators? - Wild Louisiana Tours Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as . Furthermore, info about species diversity for each body of water including any potentially dangerous creatures is available at GLMA (Gulf Living Marine Assessment). The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. A paddler, Brady Toensing, 54, of Reddick, Florida, said in an interview that he saw a fishing boat pass him on the . If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Ages 3-85, max of 20 per group. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-box-4','ezslot_4',630,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-box-4-0'); If you are planning to kayak in water infested with alligators or you fear you might come across an alligator, you should know the typical behavior. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. In truth, they aren't. Alligators are just as afraid of us as we are of them, so typically if a kayak enters an alligator area, they will duck below the water and hide. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. 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. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. The 7 Best Mangrove Kayaking In Florida | PyeNye 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. - Kayak-sensei. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. 1. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. In summary, although there are potential risks associated with taking part in wildlife-filled waters throughout points in Florida, there still exist plenty of reputable sources which can guide individuals on finding aquatic recreational experiences away from human/alligator interactions. 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. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Alligator that menaced paddleboarder in viral video is killed by You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . When kayaking, your safety is of utmost importance. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Our posts may contain affiliate links. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. - Just Go! Read more. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". When it comes to kayaking, Florida is a paradise for beginners. 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. You don't want a gator to feel threatened by your presence, or they might charge at your kayak. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. 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. 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 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!! Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Kayaking with Alligators - Canoe-Kayaks.com Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? - windpaddle.com WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. What are the risks to canoeists and kayakers from alligators? 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. [Whats The Best Method? Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. Paddling with Alligators This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Even if you're careful, you may run into an alligator or two on your visit, particularly if you're kayaking or boating. 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. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? 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.. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. 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.. 1. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! This 500-acre park offers lots of open spaces as well as access to scenic parts of the Cat Fish Creek Nature Trail and Seminole Wilderness Area with impressive views along the way. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. 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. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. 15 Unique Places To Go Kayaking In Florida - Florida Trippers The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. 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. $80.00. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. 6 great places to kayak and canoe in Fort Myers, Naples Florida Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. Good luck. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? 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. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. Best Places to Stay. 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. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. Thank you! 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. Don't poke it with your paddle. 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 . Wildlife exploration in Florida. Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent - Just Go! The Best Places to Kayak in Bradenton Florida Revealed! You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. 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. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. The Great Calusa Blueway. 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. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Yes! So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Alligators attacking kayaks . You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. Just off Florida's southwest coast is a chain of magnificent mangrove islets. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. 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.. A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . 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. 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. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. Truly one of Florida's unspoiled river gems, Little Manatee River is a designated "Outstanding Florida Water" area with sand pine and oxbow wetlands. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? 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! 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! Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. To stay away from alligators even further north head over to Lake Taraweba near Bonita Springs where coastal wildlife like dolphins can be seen playing in calmer waters compared to saltier parts of Florida's coast line. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Do alligators go in the canals in Florida? CNN . The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. She said: "I also highly recommend adding Clam Pass in Naples to your list. 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). Safe Places to Kayak in Florida | Florida Adventurer Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. So what are you waiting for? Game wardens discover 7-foot 'pet' alligator living in woman's backyard This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Blackwater River. " Silver Glen Springs (Marion County, FL) " by, Paul Clark licensed under CC BY 2.0. 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. 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. But this goes back to respecting their territory. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. Rentals range from $25-50 depending on the length of time, and they do have some guided tours available. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. 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. While the idea. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. 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. 7. You will also come across many birds. 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. 7 The St. Johns River. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. Alligators are unlikely to attack a kayak if the situation is calm and the rowing is smooth. Locations such as Crystal River just north Tampa Bay offer not only gorgeous scenery but also year round protection from Florida's notorious heat providing an (often overlooked) opportunity given other areas may become quite hot during summer months. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. You can read more about me on my about page. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. 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. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. . This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. That said, if youre a novice looking to get your feet wet (literally!) time to kayak out of the area into safety. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando.