Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? CNN . 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. You know water sports you know me! 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. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? - Kayak-sensei After so much time spent on a kayak, grab some food at one off the great seafood restaurants dotted around Bonita Springs if hunger pangs set while out on the lake. Tarpon Springs, Florida. Kayaking In Florida: Top 23 Launch Spots Mapped Kayaking Near Me We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. KAYAKING TIPS | Rent First | For obvious reasons, rent and try out the experience before you invest in any expensive kayaking equipment. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. With its many mangrove tunnels and scenic views, its a great place to go kayaking. - Just Go! The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Know Now! Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. 8 The Hillsborough River. Search no more! 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. Video shows alligator near woman's paddleboard in Florida springs - WKMG Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators - Kayaks Point Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. 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.. Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? 17 Best Places to Kayak in Miami, FL - Kayak Guidance Yes! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. That's where we come in. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. 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, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! time to kayak out of the area into safety. 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. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. Just 48 minutes west of Gainesville, you'll find Ginnie Springs near a town called High Springs. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Where to See Alligators in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA 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. 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. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. Exploring Florida's Magical Mangrove Tunnels Other safe spots include several parks near New Smyrna Beach such as Ponce de Leon Inlet near Spruce Creek Preserve which provides an amazing journey with its large marshy creeks leading out into calm estuaries teeming with a variety wildlife--minus any gators! When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. Contents. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: 17 Top Spots for Snorkeling in Florida - American Oceans One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. 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!) This river is 246 miles long, located in northwest Florida, and stretches to Mexico. 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. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. This wouldn't be a list of the best places to paddle board in Florida without mentioning the mangroves. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 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. Beautiful Natural Springs you Can't Miss! - Florida Vacationers The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. 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. If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. 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. As a rule of thumb, it's suggested that you stay at least 20 yards away from any gator you see. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. 15 Things You Didn't Know About Alligators In Florida - TheTravel 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. >> oh my goodness. Q: What should I take with me when kayaking? Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators : r/PonzoBlogs Their hearing is sensitive, so they will know of your presence before you even see them. Shoal River. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! 3. If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Kayaking Near Orlando (11 Great Places to Paddle) - Paddle About 4. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? If youre looking for a kayaking adventure in Florida, be sure to steer clear of alligator-infested waters! Yes, there can be alligators in the Great Calusa Blueway depending on conditions and time of year it is paddled through that region. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. $80.00. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. 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. Suwannee River Wilderness. This tour takes guests through the famous mangrove tunnels and into the open water near Otter Key. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, 9 Of The Best Places to Kayak In Central Florida, 5 Of The Canoe and Kayak Rental Tours In Central Florida, Best Places to Kayak In Florida [North, South & Central], Can Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down? seminole county deputies. One spot to check out is Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Located near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs crystal clear waters and lush foliage will make you feel miles away from civilization.