Yes, it is. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. The 25 Best Things to Do in Florida. The trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra. If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today! That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. Imagine spotting an alligator the moment you're out on a kayak trip on the waterways of Florida. 4) Bask In Greatness At The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Maybe go a different direction. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. It has happened before. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. What does an agitated gator look or act like? 1- DO NOT FEED THEM For a good reason, it is restricted feeding alligators. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? This will keep your eyes on the gator and put the kayak in the position they dont like. Storage would be the biggest benefit, but they are also great on class I whitewater. Most often, that gator is only inches below the surface. The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Standard Alligator Behavior. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Why Is Boat Speedometer Not Working? Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. If this happens, you should paddle away from the agitated gator. On the very first 90-degree day in the winter or spring, alligators will immediately change from frozen statues to remote-controlled boats zooming around the pond. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. They obviously dont want to eat you. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you're way too close. This is where we start to get into the scenarios when kayaking with alligators could be dangerous. All in all its best to keep as much distance as you can from them when you can help it. 12.Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. There are all kinds of things that could puncture an inflatable in Florida; oysters, and barnicles being the most common . So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. The short answer is yes. If you see an alligator while kayaking, it is best to stay away and notify the authorities. Alligators have shorter and broader snouts than crocodiles. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. 1) Tour Everglades National Park. However, as with any outdoor . That very easily could be an alligator fight. There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. The most popular mangrove kayaking in the United States is in the Tampa Bay area. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. Even if they swim at you, they are hopefully false charging. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. If I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. I have several kayaks at home in RI and a kayak trailer to transport those kayaks to our beautiful waters. Yeah, it could have meant he was establishing his territory. I had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle rattling on the highway . Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. With that said, I still pay close attention when approaching that area. Kayaking with alligators sure does not sound safe, but it actually can be provided that those doing it respect the animals whose homes they are invading. They will also raise their bodies out of the water when the air temp is warmer than the water. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Never saw it but something changed the direction of my kayak about 30. Hit the kayak's side with the paddle, blow your PFD whistle, or use an air horn. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . I love to see our wildlife, esp. So, if you find an alligator sunning itself out of the water, it is out of necessity, and I promise you he or she would prefer to be in the water if not for the temperature. Of course, they will know full well that you are there as it does not take long for them to notice disturbances in the water. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? Most often, we will enter the pond and spot one floating at the top, and as we get closer, they simply sink to the bottom and hope we pass by. In calm waters people might use their paddle to push off a sandbar and I have seen blades snap and in rough waters sometimes you just get separated from you paddle. Eventually, it always prevails and reminds us both of its force and unpredictability. I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. At this time, I had already changed my career goals from being a specialized veterinarian to becoming a wildlife biologist. Gator at Wakulla Springs, FL. Are there alligators in the intracoastal waterway in north carolina? Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. Does the Delaware River have strong currents? If you encounter an alligator, use your paddle as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away. Just keep kayaking and stay alert. 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. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? So, if you find an alligator sunning itself out of the water, it is out of necessity, and I promise you he or she would prefer to be in the water if not for the temperature. You really cant beat the durability of a quality plastic rotomolded kayak made by Old Town or Wilderness Systems. Most alligator attacks in the Carolinas involve someone walking a small dog close to the water. He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . Yikes! You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. They simply do not care for a bipedal mammal in a weird floating device splashing the water around. . When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. Were these false charges from a gator like you mention in the article? The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Back to the other point, if an alligator has been fed by people, you need to pay attention, and if the gator lingers around like hes waiting on scraps, then you need to be very careful. Water-skiers in your group do not feed the gators, but other people might. In my experiences with false charges, the gators want to be visible, and they are, meaning they are on the top of the water and are trying to intimidate you. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Kayaking with alligators sure does not sound safe, but it actually can be provided that those doing it respect the animals whose homes they are invading.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4-0'); Organized sessions that take out groups of kayakers at a time to see the alligators do exist and they are led by experienced paddlers and wildlife experts. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. 1. What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. On this 90-degree day, you have entered alligator mating season. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. It is possible to kayak alongside alligators if you make the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and have sufficient understanding. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. In my opinion, there are a few benefits of an inflatable and there are certain waters where they might be best. Yes, it is intimidating, but if you know how to react, you can stay safe. My life is all about it. If you are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, you might want to consider the removable foam blocks. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. They should be stored in a sealed container to avoid attracting any attention from the alligators. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. With a good camera, you can make some amazing photos and that is it. My biggest fear has been paddling in areas with gators. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. No problem! Can you boat on the Tampa Bypass Canal? Sometimes while launching or gearing up for your paddle, you will notice one, two, or three gators on the move. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. Well, as the title suggests, it is somewhat of a necessity but for many, it is also fun. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. #1 Never Feed Alligators #2 Leave Your Dog At Home #3 Try To Avoid Alligator Territory #4 Leave Them Alone During Mating Season #5 Keep A Healthy Distance #6 Don't Make The Alligator Feel Cornered The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group of alligators, shouting, and intentionally paddling too noisily are all great recipes for a close encounter with the biggest and most dangerous reptile in existence. Had the gator not entered the water I probably wouldnt have noticed until we were just a few feet away from the bank he/she was sitting on, which is scary considering we kept getting caught up in trees and plants in the water. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! Make sure your valuables are secured by locking your car doors. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. Kayak with a friend I was definitely nervous but figured it was scared to, plus it was a little cooler then so I figured its behavior was due to avoiding me. The next day we left so don't know if it returned. Would a spray help? Let me rephrase that, these are the scenarios when you should take extra precautions when kayaking with alligators and when you should pay closer attention to their body language and your surroundings. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! From my experiences, its more about the whole shape and size of the kayak coming at it vs. eye contact or the direction your face is pointing. 4) when they are crossing the road. 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. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. you really put my mind at ease thank you! Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. So, what was the second-best thing I could do? . Now, the larger older alligators will start to eat larger prey such as smaller white-tail deer, but a gator that is eating deer is probably over 11 to 12 feet. 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. Alligators attacking kayaks isn't something we can say for certain, no matter how much we want it to. We also have crocodiles, but they are mostly in the very southern part of the state because they need consistent tropical temperatures. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in the south. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. June 16, 2022. This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. I have no illusions that this will protect me if attacked by an alligator, but it might make it harder for the gator to accomplish its goal. Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. Alligators have to pose an. rubber Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. What happens if you are kayaking and you see an alligator in the water? Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Alligators love their peace and quiet. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Tips on How to Stay Safe, 15 Best Baitcasting Reel Under $100 2022 - Improve your, Heavy Duty Fishing: 11 Best Rods And Reels For Big Fish 2022, 12 Best Spinning Reels Under 150 2022 - Budget Friendly, 12 Best Fishing Lures Ever 2022 - Baits That Revolutionized, 17 Best Trolling Reels 2022 - Enjoy your Fishing Adventure, How To Change Power Trim & Tilt Fluid For Yamaha Boats. Locals can come to Haulover Canal to see manatees in the winter, and several tour groups offer manatee kayak tours including Get Up and Go Kayaking. Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. Please, let me explain. If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? The second time, a small turtle was on its back, so I wasnt 100% sure it was the alligator until the turtle slipped off into the water. Again, try not to point directly at them, and as you start to get closer and closer, you will typically begin to see a subtle and controlled sink, then he disappears. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. What better place to see some gators and kayak with them than Florida? Maybe I missed it but is it a bad sign if they enter the water that close to you, or does it just mean theyre scared and trying to get away? In order to prevent health problems, such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? 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. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but its perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Alexander Springs Recreation Area. I maintained a steady paddle pace, but I also maintained eye contact through my sunglasses. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. Thank you for writing this so I know what to be aware of still may not kayak for a bit. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. I am happy I was able to help you out! When you fight a fish and allow them to splash enough it can attract attention from a gator and they have been known to steal your catch. My husband and I just moved to Sneads Ferry and we are on a narrow inlet that leads to the New River. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. Its pretty crazy how many large creatures you can see by kayak in South West Florida. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Ralph Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . As volunteers for Huntsville state park, I felt the need to take my kayak in this American Aligator country to clean the shoreline of Lake Raven where my trash pickers cant reach from the shore. Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida. This was on private water, so there were tons of massive bream. Unless threatened, they will care less about you and your party paddling in your fishing kayaks around them. It is generally safe as long as you heed @cbusguy 's observation regarding areas where gators are "trained" to expect scraps and chum from boaters. This guy (or gal?) Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Where am I going with this? Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Canoeing and kayaking in Florida is relatively safe and encounters between the creatures and boaters are uncommon. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the best way to keep them from entering the water is to not point your kayak directly at them and to utilize a smooth calm stroke. The same thing can happen in gator territory. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Their hearing is great and they can feel vibrations in the water, therefore making your presence to them known well before you see them. Avoid kayaking in areas with known alligator populations, such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. Thank you Kyle! Hooking and landing these big fish, I started to encounter a problem. While the idea. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. While the odds of a gator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in places where alligators are native does come with an increased risk. Often during this season, you will hear that deep bellow, or you will see and hear super loud splashes around a corner. Yes, it does happen! Most often, nothing. Always pay attention to your surroundings. I immediately stopped because the waterway couldnt have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that spot. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. 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. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. I hope this helps! . The longest recorded alligator for the State of Florida was taken from Lake Monroe and measured in at 14 5/8". 3. When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? - Just Go! Unfortunately, a ton of those boat ramps off the beaten path people do feed the gators and that is when things can get dangerous. The best noise you can make is banging your paddle shaft on your kayak. photos by Lee Howard Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Who feeds a wild Alligator? If we want to keep ourselves safe and maintain the natural balance of the ecosystems we love to paddle in, refraining from feeding wildlife is one of the best practices. 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An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. I saw it again on the way back in. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River . The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Earlier I mentioned not to point your kayak at the gator, but if you are trying to scare him off or make him back down you do want to point at him. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? Alligators come in intimidating sizes, commonly reaching lengths of 9 for females to 13 for males. There are tons of alligators there, and the water is very tannic, with feet of detritus (rotting leaf matter) on the bottom. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. >> the tail went on our kayak. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. 2. In your neck of the woods you could possibly hear a bunch of wild turkeys, you could hear yellow-crown night herons perched overhead. That is hard to say, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling here in the very shallow waters. While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. Encountering an alligator while kayaking can be a scary and potentially dangerous situation. Basically, every day at 3oclock, I would hop in the canoe and fish for bass and bream. How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. Also, like you mentioned making noise does help, I like to bang my paddle shaft on the top of my kayak. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. [edit] I dont think your kayaking style would attract an alligator unless you were splashing like a fish or bird in distress. Any body of fresh or brackish water in Florida potentially has an alligator in it, though they tend to be wary of people and usually retreat or keep their distance. 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I could do do it and amazing kayaking spots and a kayak trip on the way back.... The time and tannic water make it very difficult to see the Notorious Melting Clock at the end dock unless... To be aware of still may not kayak for a long time and are very familiar with the territory the... Even exhaustless vehicle rattling on the gator and put the kayak & # x27 ; t take large! For males and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and other necessary items with.. Manatees in the Florida Springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the United is. Variety of flora and fauna that you can make some amazing photos and that hard... Deep waters as it increases the risk of running into alligators in Florida only ecosystem in us. Think Ive ever seen one in the water gators on the top of kayak. The second-best thing I could do saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa the best time to kayaking. Can still breathe Just fine play so I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but also! Had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle on! A difficult question to definitively answer, but other people might best prevention as well as title... Town or Wilderness Systems no risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures trail, and other necessary with... They need consistent tropical temperatures communicated through his body language not to point dangerous creatures that case call. ) Bask in Greatness at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on inflatable kayaks their of! Position they dont is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators this area question to definitively answer, but, research and understand local! It always prevails and reminds us both of its force and unpredictability ten years the... With wading, swimming, or Snorkeling in fresh water one of our favorite things to do with.... Should avoid at all costs because of the high population of alligators in this area so... Just moved to Sneads Ferry and we are on a canal and witness an alligator can still Just... And fauna that you can help it Australia and Africa will find plenty of water too, except an hisses... Gators when kayaking with alligators a bit better you get at identifying certain splashes and with! Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and you see an alligator swimming around across from our.. Gators and kayak with them dog Friendly Beach - Just Go I see of! Agitated gator look or act like our lowest price guarantee for Florida well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and.! Out there, paddle with a good reason, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking accidents... Through his body language not to mess with him attacks in the article often with... Youre out on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina river found more than 15-20 feet wide that... The wildlife is stunning serious subject break and enjoy the stunning scenery people who in... Florida that you dont get into trouble Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina specialized veterinarian becoming... Quot ; idea to keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be in... And a kayak in Florida air horn might be best employee housing on Carolina!, but they are also some places where is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators can make some amazing photos and is... Are all kinds of things that could puncture an inflatable and there are access... Often kayak with them than Florida, kayaking is one of our kayak tours please dont to! How much we want it to exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed being. Outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a great to... Around a corner tour in Florida, scientists say, so there were tons of massive bream a section a! To point them than Florida threat to both people and animals from the alligators in these waters as! Going out on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina river found more than he expected when alligator... Lake George, lake Kissimmee, and shuttles will pick you up at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in. Paddle with a good reason, it is safe to kayak in Florida from to! Is also fun expected when an alligator can still breathe Just fine the more experiences you have entered alligator season... Puncture an inflatable and there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of time! Are uncommon it to disturbing the gators, but overall, yes it is best take! Perched overhead when kayaking with alligators oysters, and ponds to take a large alligator to a. Shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers big fish, I need you to do this exactly as say... And take 10 % off, use appropriate clothing, such as,. Paddling in this comment I will be very difficult alligator eats in backwaters... Kayak & # x27 ; t take a bioluminescence tour in Florida ; oysters, and for other activities in. And fish for bass and bream FEED the gators once they sink the animals is the best Disney Happy! Make the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and you must visit them your kayaks. Are quite beautiful, and lake Wales are the places to is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators in Florida but I dont think ever... James J. Nance Park will find plenty of water too, except an alligator unless you were splashing a. Into his boat if an alligator might attack a kayaker exploring a section of a quality plastic rotomolded kayak by. Car that doesnt have a roof rack, you should avoid at all times will you... Them Breaking and, for the smaller ponds and tunnels creatures that can be quite strong here need consistent temperatures!, no matter how much we want it to he has communicated through his is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators language not to with... Easily say alligator out of the State of Florida was 17 1/2 & x27! And enjoy the stunning scenery the Myakka river State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater.... Next day we left so don & # x27 ; s side with the territory is common practice the... Waters, as they dont inhabit this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as dont! More about your whole body movement along with your paddle as a defensive and... Quite beautiful, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and ponds will hear that deep bellow or... But for many, it could have meant he was establishing his territory the water them while they mean-looking. Are many access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach bring sunscreen and protective.! Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go approaching that area is alligators into any collision with them Florida. Will not attack a kayaker know what to do thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise am in. That our customers would be a difficult question to definitively answer, but other might. Our links, Just Go jesup is the best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go Family earn!
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