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The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 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! Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. 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. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Whether you want to explore the crystal clear springs, tour through peaceful mangroves, or experience the tranquility of paddling around a remote island, non-swampy locations abound across Florida's many waterways. Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. 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 . Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. (Kayak Drowning Possibilities), List Of Top Kayak Swimwear Brands Of USA; What To Wear When Kayaking, The Santa Fe River is a tributary of the Suwannee River and is approximately 78 miles (126 kilometers) long and has a watershed of approximately 1,380 square miles, Weeki Wachee Spring is a natural spring located in Weeki Wachee, Florida and it is a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. 2. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Crystal River. 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. You will also come across many birds. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Along with Anastasia State Park paddle boards and kayaks, the company also offers bike rentals, sailboat rentals, and beach chair and supply rentals. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. But this goes back to respecting their territory. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 4. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Thank you! The trial itself includes several sandbars to stop and picnic or just relax for a bit with your kayak. 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. 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. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. 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. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. 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. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. And if luck favors - anglers can also find largemouth basses swimming across this clean river as well making fishing quite enjoyable too at times during peak seasons alright? So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Suwannee River Wilderness. Stay calm: If you encounter an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away from it. . 1.1 Rainbow River: 1.2 Lake Eola: 1.3 Crystal River: 1.4 Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: 1.5 Little Manatee River State Park: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. 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If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. Here you'll have your pick between cruising down a winding river canoe trail or relaxing with an inner tube float trip. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. 1. 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. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. 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.. 00:58 - Source: CNN. Before jumping in, decide where to go with our list of the best lakes in Florida. 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. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Noble Hammock is another one of the best places to kayak in Miami, FL. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. - Just Go! So what are you waiting for? Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. 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. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). The smooth flow allows you to admire the scenery. 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. Yes! Learn More{{/message}}. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator . The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! You should also wear shoes that can get wet, such as sandals or water shoes. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. 7. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . But if youre looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Florida is full of breathtakingly beautiful waterways, but it's important to remember that the Everglades wetlands areas are favorite habitat for some 12-foot long creatures! Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. 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. ). Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. 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. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. . According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Hey there kayak lovers! Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! Silver Glen Springs. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. . Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? When they see a kayak approaching, their first instinct is to hide underwater rather than attack. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. from. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. 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. 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. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. If you see one in the wild, don't approach it. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. You'll leave with great memories and gorgeous pictures. 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. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. However, you might run into some obstacles. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? 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. The best mangrove kayaking in the United States is a 2-hour tour through the canals of Lido Key. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. The alligator can hiss or bellow. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs . Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. 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) 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. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. We cover the whole outdoor arena. "There was only one alligator of this size in the area," Sapp wrote in an email. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. There are some freshwater springs-fed rivers in Central Florida that are popular with tourists. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. The water flows freely. 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! There's even a nearby boat ramp so you can launch your kayaks right into the saltwater lagoon just watch out for schools of tarpon though! There is something for everyone. Find yourself mountain biking trails before warming up at the local coffee shop nearby what better way could one spend a day? 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! Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. - Just Go! To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 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. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. The rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks can offer some great kayaking opportunities. Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! 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!) What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? The Lido Key Mangroves. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? My life is all about it. Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail are some of the places that might be included. Alligators attacking kayaks . Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Finding the safest places to kayak in Florida can seem like a daunting task, with the vast water system that lies within its borders. No matter where you rove about within this paradise state known for its glorious sunsets peeking through cypress stands enshrouded in clouds framing majestic everglades wetlands from which rises extraordinary wildlife choruses flocking cobalt skies at day along magical night as Venus brightens come nightfall you'll find some truly amazing non-swampy spots well worth your exploration whether it's tepid springs rippling waterways overflown riverbanks inviting blow dredge islands or shaded mangroves negotiating intra coastal passes entrenched within sizable saltwater estuaries that offer untamed paddles truly deserving any outdoor enthusiast delight pursuit! In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). Manage Settings seminole county deputies. You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Crescent Lake. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. 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! You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. 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. 6. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Search no more! Crescent Lake. Wildlife exploration in Florida. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. 1. 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. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Almost everyone new to paddling waters with alligators has the same primal fear of an attack. They can also move quickly on land. Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. 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. Just south from Lake Monroe County Park is another great spot for paddlers: Pretty Lake Canoe Trails located in Edgewater, FL. 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. 111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 - Handicapped Parking Only. 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. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Blackwater River. Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the best places to see alligators and . 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. 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. Happy reading! Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Suwannee River Wilderness. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! 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. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. April 7, 2022. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. 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. All in all, there are so many amazing spots across Florida where you can take part in a safe yet exhilarating kayaking experience no matter if youre a beginner or experienced pro - guaranteed those who come here seeking adventure will not be disappointed! 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. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. 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.. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 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 should take the following precautions in case of an encounter: If you plan on kayaking in alligator-infested waters, you should ensure not to bring your dog. For those hot days, Silver Glen Springs stays 72 degrees all year. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles.