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. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). 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. 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. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Yes, it actually happens! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. 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! There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. from. 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. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. Florida is the ultimate destination for any kayaker who wants to explore different kayaking locationslakes, 1,700 rivers, and more than 700 springs. in this fantastic sport then there are certain locations that offer the most ideal conditions for learning and honing skills. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. The kayak run takes 4 hours to complete and includes a few rapids and a very narrow trail with alligator infested water. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. 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. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Keep in mind that due to its size Lake Okeechobee can sometimes experience windy weather so its important to be aware and prepared for more challenging conditions than expected when venturing out here. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Ichetucknee Springs. 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. Learn More: Are inflatable kayaks any good? 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. 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. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Finally, resources are also available directly through retailers who provide rental services as well as guided experiences in Florida waters. 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! Florida wildlife officials have now killed a nearly 12-foot alligator that swam within inches of a frightened paddleboarder in a popular state park during an encounter in September recorded on video that went viral. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. 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. 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. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places 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! Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. These are also things that one might warn a . 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 . My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? Anastasia Paddling offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on the Salt Run river. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Best Places to Stay. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. 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. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. 7. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. 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. Rainbow Springs State Park. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef is a popular destination for kayakers. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! However, you might run into some obstacles. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. You could visit Kings Spring, which is 75 feet . A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . 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. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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 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..