The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. 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! This lovely stretch offers paddlers miles of scenic views while they explore its numerous springs along more than 220-miles course length! CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. 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. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. This river is easily navigable on your own, but you will have a more informative trip if you decide to take one of the guided tours. 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. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Contents. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. However once your safety concerns have been addressed its only a matter enjoying one paddle away from paradise in The Sunshine State!. 4. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. 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. 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.. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Best places for kayaking in Florida. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. 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. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. - Just Go! There's nothing like a freshwater spring to keep you cool while paddling around the river or spending time listening for birdsong along its banks. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. Where can I kayak in Florida without alligators? Learn more about some of the popular and safe places to Kayak in Florida without sharks and alligators. Weeki Wachee Springs, situated in West Central Florida, sports clear waters perfect for the novice and experienced kayaker. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. Complete Guide. 2 where to kayak in florida without alligators; 3 Santa Fe River; 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River; 5 The Manatee River; 6 Madison Blue Spring State Park; 7 Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? Companies like Flamingo Flatboats Tours Inc provide guided experiences tailored around beach front recreational areas with safety rules employed to ensure encounters with wildlife remain controlled circumstances in order to preserve nature while allowing visitors insight into this unique environment. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. The brisk flowing water easily Carrie's you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Kayaking in Florida. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. 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. The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. 1 Is it safe to kayak in Florida? This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. If you need to hire a kayak, you could get one here, but only if you come early. The Great Calusa Blueway. And since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. 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. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. 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!3. 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. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! Follow all the rules and regulations for the area you are paddling in. 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! As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. 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. 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. Silver Glen 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! In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. 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. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. While the idea. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. Reasons, Prevention, and Fixes, How to Ship a Kayak Across Country? 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;}. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. 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! You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. 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 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. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. 1. Be sure to keep your feet and hands inside your kayak all the time as you paddle along the river. Crescent Lake. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. Wildlife exploration in Florida. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA, Top 10 Places to Kayak in Florida (2020 Update), Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators Travel Youman, Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. You can float through cypress trees draped in moss while you soak in the views of the limestone formations and aquatic vegetation. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . Alligators rarely attack without reason, and usually won't linger in one area as long-time visitors do - this means it's important for kayakers not just be careful but also mindful of where their boats are so that any . Best Places to Stay. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. 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. If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) "Alligators are dangerous animals.". A tributary of St. Johns River, Crescent Lake is located in Flagler and Putnam counties. 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!) According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most-- more than 2,300. If you're a fan of kayaking and love the Sunshine State, but don't want to worry about running into any alligators, there are still plenty of places where you can safely paddle around. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. Alligators can be found in almost any body of fresh water across Florida. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. 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. This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Boat tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes; reservations are not required. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. 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. There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. You may come across turtles, and herons and may see an alligator or two. Essential Tips to Follow. It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. 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.. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Manage Settings We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. 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. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 1. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. A post shared by Dry Tortugas National Park (@drytortugasnps) One of the best snorkeling spots in Florida is located 70 miles west of Key West. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Leave no trace. 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! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. 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. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Weeki Wachee Springs. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. Crescent Lake. Alligators attacking kayaks . Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1.

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