Florida’s Best-Kept Secrets: 5 Amazing Places To Go Kayaking

Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience Florida. You can see all kinds of wildlife, from manatees and dolphins to turtles and alligators and other people on the water.

Plus, there are so many different types of kayaks that you can choose from! Kayaking is a great workout too. It’s an aerobic activity that will help you get fit while having fun at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • There are many great places to go kayaking in Florida. 
  • The best kayaking spots in Florida are often found in the state’s many rivers and waterways. 
  • Kayakers can find beautiful scenery and wildlife while paddling through Florida’s waterways. 
  • Some of the best kayaking spots in Florida include the Apalachicola River, the Coastal Dune Lakes, and the Wakulla River. 
  • Florida is a great place for both beginner and experienced kayakers alike.
Florida's Best-Kept Secrets_ 5 Amazing Places To Go Kayaking
Florida’s Best-Kept Secrets_ 5 Amazing Places To Go Kayaking

Where Is The Best Kayaking In Florida?

If you’re looking for the best kayaking in Florida, you have many options. Many places in this state will offer some great opportunities for paddlers.

The Everglades is one of them, and it’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular destinations for kayaking in Florida.

There are many reasons why people love to go kayaking here. For starters, there are plenty of places where you can rent or buy your equipment, so you won’t have any trouble getting started if you don’t already own one yourself.

Also, because it’s not far from Miami and Orlando (two other popular destinations), there are plenty of things to do after spending some time on the water—like visiting aquariums or theme parks.

The Best Kayaking In Florida Is In The Everglades

The Best Kayaking In Florida Is In The Everglades
The Best Kayaking In Florida Is In The Everglades

The Everglades is a large river system that snakes through southern Florida. While most people associate it with the alligators and manatees that live there, there are also many different types of kayaking available in the Everglades area.

The best thing about kayaking in Florida’s Everglades is that it’s one of the few places left where you can go tubing without worrying about being attacked by an alligator or eaten by a shark.

The only dangers are sunburn and dehydration, so bring plenty of sunscreens.

This is the place to go if you want a more tranquil experience than other kinds of white-water kayaking.

There Are Many Different Types Of Kayaking Available In The Apalachicola River, Including Flat Water And Whitewater Kayaking

Many different kayaking types are available in the Apalachicola River, including flat water and white-water kayaking.

Flat-water kayakers use a sit-on-top boat that is stable enough for beginners to learn how to paddle, steer and control their boat on lakes and slow-moving rivers.

The Apalachicola River offers an excellent opportunity for beginner flat-water kayakers and advanced paddlers who want some open-water training before heading out into more challenging conditions.

White-water kayaks (often called playboats) are very maneuverable and quick turning, so they can handle rapids without getting stuck or flipping over while paddling down the river at high speeds.

Kayaking In The Suwannee River Is A Great Way To See Wildlife Up Close

Kayaking In The Suwannee River Is A Great Way To See Wildlife Up Close
Kayaking In The Suwannee River Is A Great Way To See Wildlife Up Close

Kayaking in the Suwannee River is a great way to see wildlife up close. Many different species of wildlife can be seen while kayaking in the Suwannee River.

You can see alligators, otters, and manatees in the Suwannee River. There are also many different types of birds that you can see while kayaking in this area.

You Can Also Go Fishing While Kayaking In The Coastal Dune Lakes, South Walton

If you like to fish but don’t want to be around other people who are also fishing, kayak fishing is a great option.

You can go out and catch some delicious fish for dinner! There are plenty of places in South Walton where you can do this:

  • Coastal Dune Lakes
  • Lake Powell
  • Lake Lorraine
  • East Bay Cove

In addition to the great fishing opportunities these lakes offer, they also provide a nice respite from the crowds at Hollywood Beach.

Kayaking In The Wakulla River Is A Great Workout

Kayaking In The Wakulla River Is A Great Workout
Kayaking In The Wakulla River Is A Great Workout

If you’re looking for a great workout, kayaking in the Wakulla River is your best bet. Paddling for hours and still not seeing the river’s end is as much fun as it sounds.

The river is very narrow, so you have to use your arms to paddle (not your legs).

This also means that if you get tired or bored, there’s no way to take a break by sitting down—you have no choice but to keep paddling. In short: It’s a great workout.

Many Different Companies Offer Kayaking Tours In The Apalachicola River

Many companies offer kayaking tours in the Apalachicola River. Some companies offer guided kayaking tours, and others are just for renting. Still, all of them provide different services in a very professional manner.

The best thing about kayaking is that you will get to explore places you have never been to before. This can be done by anyone regardless of their skill level or experience.

The only thing required is a boat, available at most rental shops, and lessons on how to operate it properly.

The Weather Conditions For Kayaking In Florida

The Weather Conditions For Kayaking In Florida
The Weather Conditions For Kayaking In Florida

A lot of what you will hear about the weather in Florida is true. It’s hot and humid and can be unpredictable. But there are some things you need to know about kayaking in Florida that may surprise you.

The best time of year to kayaking in Florida is during its dry seasons: winter and springtime.

While it’s not exactly summertime on the beach, it’s also not raining or stormy out—and if it were colder outside than usual during these two months, then there would be ice on your boat.

When temperatures rise into the 80s for most days during those seasons, enjoy them at a nearby river or lake with your family or friends while paddling together.

The Safety Precautions For Kayaking In Florida

  • Be aware of the weather.
  • Be aware of the water conditions.
  • Be aware of any wildlife that might be in the area.
  • Know which tides and currents to look out for, as they can change quickly and dramatically depending on where you are on the coast.
  • If kayaking around mangroves, beware of their sharp thorns—and don’t bother trying to climb them! They’ll just mess up your clothes with sap (or worse). Instead, keep an eye out for mangrove tunnels hidden behind thick branches: these will lead you safely until you reach open water again at another canal or lagoon inside the maze-like network along Florida’s coasts.

The Necessary Equipment For Kayaking In Florida

You’ll need a few things to be safe and comfortable on the water.

  • A kayak (duh)
  • A paddle and life jacket (both are required by law)
  • A waterproof camera, sunscreen, bug spray, insect repellent and first aid kit
  • Snacks and water (hydration is key)

You might also want to bring the following:

  • A tow rope in case you get stuck somewhere out of your reach * Sun hat for when it’s hot out there * Sunglasses for those bright Florida days

Conclusion

To summarize, kayaking in Florida is exciting and fun to explore the state’s amazing waters. There is something for everyone at these five places, regardless of your level of experience in the sport.

We hope this article has helped show you some of the best places to go kayaking in Florida and give you some ideas on how to make your next trip even more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which types of boats are best for kayaking in Florida?

Kayaks of all types and sizes are best for kayaking in Florida, from beginner kayaks to large touring kayaks.

What should I pack for my trip to Florida kayaking?

You’ll want to pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen and bug spray, as Florida kayaking can be hot and humid. You may also want to bring a tow rope in case you get stuck on the lakes or rivers in Florida. And lastly, sunglasses are a must during summer weather in Florida.

Is it safe to paddle in FL during hurricane season?

No, kayaking during hurricane season is safe. Florida state laws require all paddlers to wear a life jacket and paddle with caution in the wake of tropical storms or hurricanes.

What are the best times of year to go kayaking in Florida?

The best time of year to kayaking in Florida is all year round, but spring and summer are especially beautiful.

Come explore the best kayaking spots in Florida! Paddle through mangroves, creeks, rivers, and the Gulf of Mexico while enjoying the sunshine and wildlife.