Last Updated on February 27, 2024
If you are looking for the best places to kayak in Florida, you’ll be happy to learn that there are incredible options throughout the state.
With its abundant waterways traversing the state, Florida offers endless opportunities for paddlers of all skill levels to enjoy some of the best kayaking places and explore the state’s stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
To help you plan your next outdoor adventure, these are some of the best places to kayak in Florida.
From iconic rivers and shallow waters to coastal destinations, check out all the places you can venture to while kayaking in the Sunshine State.
King’s Landing – Apopka
King’s Landing is a great place to kayak in the Orlando area.
Located just 20 miles northwest of Downtown Orlando, King’s Landing is the perfect spot to explore the scenic Rock Springs Run.
The rental company offers a variety of booking options, including self-guided rentals, guided tours, and a shuttle run.
The shuttle run includes transport back to the parking area at the end of your 8.5-mile downstream trip.
Rental reservations are booked for four hours, giving visitors ample time to paddle around the area.
Shuttle run kayakers end their journey at Wekiva Island, where they can enjoy free admission to the park.
There are onsite establishments with food and drinks available for purchase.
TIPS:
- King’s Landing is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
- If bringing your own boat, it is $10 per adult and $5 per child to launch it on property. Lifejackets are also required, which can be rented for $5 per jacket (as of July 2023).
- If you are visiting without your own boat, King’s Landing has singles ($59), doubles ($79), and canoes ($65.79) for rent on the property (as of July 2023).
- Pets are not allowed on the property.
- Walk-ins can sometimes be accommodated, but advanced reservations are recommended.
- Shuttle pickup occurs daily at 3:30 pm.
- If reservations are canceled due to bad weather, a full refund will be provided.
For more information, visit the official King’s Landing website.
King’s Landing Address: 5722 Baptist Camp Rd., Apopka, FL 32712
While in the area, check out: Spotlight on Spectacular Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek – Kissimmee
The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek is another fantastic Central Florida kayaking spot.
Located along Shingle Creek in Kissimmee, the Paddling Center offers rentals for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
The Shingle Creek area is relatively undeveloped, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to encounter native Florida wildlife, such as birds, turtles, and gators.
TIPS:
- The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
- It is free to enter Shingle Creek, and kayaks are available for rent on site (as of July 2023).
- The last launch for rentals is between 2 pm and 3 pm.
- Rentals come with a personal flotation device and a brief paddling tutorial (if requested).
For more information, visit the official Paddling Center website.
The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek Address: 4266 W Vine St., Kissimmee, FL 34741
While in the area, check out: 22 Best Things to Do in Kissimmee, FL
MacArthur Beach State Park – North Palm Beach
Visit Palm Beach County’s only state park for an unforgettable kayaking experience.
MacArthur Beach State Park is a wonderful place for exploring calm waters by the Atlantic Ocean.
Kayakers can paddle in a few different places around the park, like the estuary and Lake Worth Lagoon.
Native wildlife in the area includes dolphins, manatees, and birds.
TIPS:
- MacArthur Beach State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Entrance fees are $5 per vehicle (two to eight people) and $4 to enter alone (as of February 2024).
- Kayak rentals are available starting at 9 am. Rentals are available to take out until 3 pm and must be back by 4 pm.
For more information, visit the official MacArthur Beach State Park website.
MacArthur Beach State Park Address: 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr., North Palm Beach, FL 33408
While in the area, check out: 6 Fun Things to Do Around the Palm Beaches
Ginnie Springs – High Springs
Ginnie Springs is a fun natural getaway with plenty of things to do. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, tubing, and kayaking.
Paddle the clear waters of the Santa Fe River, where you may encounter a variety of fish, turtles, and other native wildlife.
There are a lot of different amenities onsite, making Ginnie Springs a popular destination. A general store, restaurant, picnic tables, playground, camping areas, and more exist.
TIPS:
- Ginnie Springs is currently open Monday through Thursday from 8 am to 5 pm, Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm, and Sunday from 8 am to 6 pm.
- Hours vary by season.
- There is a fee of $20 per adult (ages 13+) and $5 per child (ages 12 and under) to enter the springs (as of February 2024).
- Rentals are available to take out until 2 pm and must be back by 5 pm.
- A waiver must be signed before kayaking.
- Pets are not allowed on the property.
- NOTE: This private park is not part of the Florida State Park system.
For more information, visit the official Ginnie Springs website.
Ginnie Springs Address: 7300 NE Ginnie Springs Rd., High Springs, FL 32643
While in the area, check out: Ginnie Springs + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge – Titusville
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area on the Space Coast that is also an excellent kayaking spot. Kayakers can explore the area with a selection of rental and tour companies.
If you are looking for a unique experience, consider booking a bioluminescent kayaking tour with one of the tour companies based in Merritt Island.
See the Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River Lagoon on your paddling journey. You may also see some animals that call this natural area home, like birds, turtles, and a variety of fish.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm.
- Entrance into Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge requires either a day-pass or National Park Pass. The day-pass into the refuge is $9. National Park Passes may be purchased at the following rates: $23 for an annual pass, $20 for senior annual pass, and passes are free for military personnel and those who are disabled (as of February 2024).
For more information, visit the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Address: 1963 Refuge Headquarters Rd., Titusville, FL 32782
While in the area, check out: 3 Best Places for Bioluminescent Kayaking in Florida
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park – Mayo
Kayaking at Lafayette Blue Springs State Park is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the Suwannee River.
Located in Mayo, a town in North Florida, the park is one of the best places to kayak, known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful springs.
The park has a designated kayak launch area where visitors can easily access the river and begin their adventure.
The river is home to various wildlife, including turtles, fish, and alligators. Visitors may also spot native birds and other species that inhabit the park.
TIPS:
- Lafayette Blue Springs State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Park entrance fees are $5 per vehicle (two to eight people), $4 per single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.
- Before visiting, familiarize yourself with the Suwannee River Wilderness State Trail for longer kayaking adventures.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Address: 799 NW Blue Spring Rd., Mayo, FL 32066
Blackwater River State Park – Milton
Blackwater River State Park is another great place to kayak in Florida. Kayakers can paddle through miles of untouched wilderness.
In fact, kayakers are surrounded by the world’s largest remaining contiguous longleaf pine/wiregrass ecosystem.
The calm waters are ideal for most paddlers, no matter their skill level. Thanks to its peaceful surroundings and lush ecosystem, the Blackwater River State Park kayak trail is an unforgettable way to connect with nature.
TIPS:
- Blackwater River State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Park entrance fees are $4 per vehicle (two to eight people) and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers (as of February 2024).
- Canoe, tube, and kayak rentals are available through Blackwater Canoe Rental.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Blackwater River State Park Address: 7720 Deaton Bridge Rd., Milton, FL 32564
Bahia Honda State Park – Big Pine Key
Bahia Honda State Park is in the Florida Keys and is another of the best places to kayaking in the Sunshine State. Visitors can rent kayaks from the park, which offers a single or tandem kayak.
Kayakers can explore the open water and navigate miles of coastline by traveling around the entire island for a unique and tropical experience in the Keys.
TIPS:
- Bahia Honda State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Park entrance fees are $8 per vehicle (two to eight people) and $2.50 per person (as of February 2024).
- The park concession has kayak rentals available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Bahia Honda State Park Address: 36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park – Weeki Wachee
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is known for its world-famous mermaid shows, but did you know that the park is also one of the best kayaking spots in Florida?
This popular park is not too far from the north Tampa Bay area and provides kayakers with an enchanting paddling journey down the Weeki Wachee River.
The park offers kayak and paddleboard rentals from within the park. They even have a shuttle to take you back to the kayak launch area at the end of your river adventure!
TIPS:
- Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is open daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm.
- Park entrance fees are $13 for adults (ages 13+), $8 for children 6 to 12 years old, and children 5 and under are admitted free (as of July 2023).
- The park has a non-disposable policy when heading out on trips on the river.
- The best time to visit this popular park is around opening on weekdays.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL 34606
Looking for other fun things to do in the area? Check out: https://authenticflorida.com/floridas-authentic-adventure-coast/.
Dry Tortugas National Park – Monroe County
Dry Tortugas National Park is one of Florida’s national parks. Kayaking at Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best ways to explore one of the most remote and pristine areas in the United States.
The park is 70 miles west of Key West and only accessible by boat or seaplane.
The park’s crystal-clear waters are the perfect place for kayaking. Visitors can paddle around the park’s stunning coral reefs and sea life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and various colorful fish.
TIPS:
- Dry Tortugas National Park is open 24 hours a day.
- The entrance fee is $15 per person for adults 16 and older. Children under 16 years old are admitted for free (as of July 2023).
- Ferry tickets to the park are included with your entrance fee.
For more information, visit the official National Park Service website.
Dry Tortugas National Park Address: Monroe County, FL
Rainbow Springs State Park – Dunnellon
Kayaking is one of the best things to do at Rainbow Springs State Park. It is a peaceful and picturesque experience that allows visitors to explore one of Florida’s most beautiful natural springs.
The park is in Dunnellon and is home to the Rainbow River, renowned for its scenic waters and thriving wildlife.
Kayakers can paddle through the park’s lush vegetation, surrounded by towering cypress trees, and spot an array of aquatic animals, such as fish and river otters.
TIPS:
- Rainbow Springs State Park is open daily from 8 am to sunset.
- Park entrance fees vary. Headsprings entrance fees are $2 per person, with children under six admitted free.
- Canoe and kayak rentals are available within the park.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Rainbow Springs State Park Address: 19158 SW 81st Place Rd., Dunnellon, FL 34432
Silver Springs State Park – Ocala
Silver Springs State Park is located in Ocala near the Ocala National Forest. It is home to the Silver River and one of the country’s largest springs.
The park has a few different kayak options, glass-bottom boats, and lots to explore.
There is the Fort King paddling trail, which is a 1.1-mile loop. You can also take long trips along the scenic river, a great way to see more of the state’s natural beauty.
Keep your eyes open for fish, turtles, alligators and high-diving MONKEYS!
TIPS:
- Silver Springs State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Park entrance fees are $8 per vehicle (two to eight people), $5 per single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers (as of July 2023).
- There is a $4 launch fee per canoe or kayak when you bring your own vessel to the park.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Silver Springs State Park Address: 1425 NE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL 34470
Shell Key Preserve – Tierra Verde
Shell Key Preserve is a unique place to kayak in Florida. The pristine waters are beautiful to take a clear kayak out on.
You may even get a chance to see a variety of underwater life as you go. Because Shell Key is only accessible by water, kayaking is the perfect way to enjoy it.
Keep your eyes open for dolphins. They are known to hang out all around Shell Key.
TIPS:
- Shell Key is open to the public but is only accessible via kayak or local charters.
- Camping is allowed on Shell Key.
- Most people prefer to launch from Pinellas Bayway Kayak and SUP Launch on Tierra Verde. It is a 1.5-mile kayak trip to the island from this launching point.
- Overnight parking at the launching location is prohibited.
For more information, visit the Shell Key Visitor’s Website.
Address: 2187 Oceanview Dr, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Turner River Paddling Trail – Ochopee
The Turner River Paddling Trail is a kayaking trail in the Everglades that is a full-day paddle.
At 8.5 miles, paddling the whole thing can take five to eight hours. This is a great place to see wildlife and enjoy a day on the water.
TIPS:
- Check the water levels before heading out. Water levels can impact your ability to enjoy this location.
- Alligators are in this location, as in many other Florida waterways. Be safe as you paddle your way down the Turner River Paddling Trail.
- The total trail is 8.5 miles between Turner River Launch and Chokoloskee.
- Between Chokoloskee and the Gulf Coast Visitor Center launch adds 3 miles.
For more information, visit the National Park Service.
Address: 41015 US Hwy 41, Ochopee, FL 34141
Check out: Top Things to Do in the Florida Everglades.
Additional Places to Kayak in Florida
- Crystal River at Kings Bay Park, 268 NW 3rd St., Crystal River, FL 34428
- Fred Howard Park, 1700 Sunset Dr., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
- Lake Powell at Camp Helen State Park, 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
- The Great Calusa Blueway, Fort Myers, FL
- Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park, 262 Wekiva Park Dr., Sanford, FL 32771
- Cayo Costa State Park, 4 Nautical Miles West of Pine Island, Cayo Costa, FL 33922
- Myakka River State Park, 13208 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
- Santa Fe River at O’Leno State Park, 410 SE O’Leno Park Rd., High Springs, FL 32643
- Hillsborough River State Park, 15402 US 301 North, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
- Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park, Off US Highway A1A, Indian River, FL 32951
- Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee, FL 34974
- Seven Sisters Springs, 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
If you enjoyed this article about the best places to kayak in Florida and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:
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