That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. What does an agitated gator look or act like? Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. I saw it again on the way back in. Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. As . So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? To be honest, I dont think I would be able to look away, but I could maybe fake it. 1. 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. It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. The alligator hangs out in the water by some tall water grasses. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. 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. Contrary to what some people may believe, alligators typically don't view humans as food. Search no more! In reality, the danger posed by crocodiles and alligators is overblown. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? 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. seminole county deputies. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. Feel free to check us out on Instagram or Facebook, where we are regularly posting photos and videos of our kayak experiences in South Florida and Colorado. We can see how the gators react underwater when we encounter them in our super clear ponds with sandy bottoms. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. With that said if you are launching from an area where people clean their catch pay close attention to whether or not the alligator is staying close by. Reeling the fish in too fast would make too much noise. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. Finally, if you are fishing on an inflatable kayak. Water-skiers in your group do not feed the gators, but other people might. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Do Alligators attack Kayaks? Our canal is a brackish dead end, surprised to see him today, but I suppose the storm may have brought him? Types of Kayaking: Coastal kayaking, river kayaking, fishing kayaking, camping kayaking. 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. Yes, it is. If you are in Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming area that is guaranteed to be alligator free. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Thanks! Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Feel free to reach out if you have anymore questions! That is it! On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. Would the alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive action? When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. 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. A very old animal in terms of evolution, it is adapted much better to the conditions and the environment where you may meet them, the prime example being Florida and the largest of American alligator males can grow 12 feet or 3.6 meters in length and weigh up to 500 pounds. As you might have already guessed, alligators like to sleep and they actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. I recently moved to Florida from the Northeast where I was an avid kayaker and Im just itching to get on the water but terrified of alligators! The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. Kayak with a friend I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Great article full of lots of good information. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. In June I was solo kayaking through Lil Big Econ Forest from the Canoe Launch on County Rd 419 all the way to snow hill rd. The alligator was . Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. Startron Vs Stabil: Which Fuel Stabilizer Is Worth Getting? How Do You Carry An Inflatable Kayak by Yourself? Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? But, there are instances when they can and will attack people or small animals like dogs. I wonder if you have any information for if the worst case does happen. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? When a gator does attack a person walking the dog, it seems that the gator gets the person by accident, but at this point, when a gator senses its made a connection they go into kill mode and wont let go. Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida. Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. Are there alligators in Florida's coastal dune lakes? Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? These things have evolved for a million years to fight, and they attach their prey with an amazing amount of intensity! If we see this, we simple kayak on by. Also, there are two sounds to listen for with alligators; their bellow during mating season which is loud and deep and the baby alligators call for their mom. The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. I paddle a surfski on the TennTom Waterway in Miss. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. Depending on how often a gator encounters boaters or kayakers has a lot to do with how comfortable they are with humans. 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. I love to see our wildlife, esp. The sides of my kayak arent very high and it makes me nervous that one may come barreling out of the water and attack my kayak. Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. . A mother alligator might quickly chase you out of that area. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. For those of you not from the south, a bream is a sunfish. Know Now! Still trying to build my confidence to hop on my kayak. I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! At that point you are very aware of them and the water definitely erupts as you mentioned in your comment. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Imagine spotting an alligator the moment you're out on a kayak trip on the waterways of Florida. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . Sometimes there is so little room in a creek or waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water. Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. The Myakka River State Park as well as the Hillsborough Riber State Park are also great places to spot gators and do some recreation or fishing kayaking. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. Think two sheep ramming each other. If you hear male alligators bellowing that means its the mating season and males will defend the best habitat and wont allow other gators and sometimes kayakers in their territory. 3. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. 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. 3) while conducting recreational activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing) in waterways with alligators. 1) Tour Everglades National Park. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. Alligators come in intimidating sizes, commonly reaching lengths of 9 for females to 13 for males. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. 2. Google both sounds and if you hear either one while paddling you need to pay extra close attention. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. From what I've read, it's also much safer than I would have believed. Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Sometimes when I kayak in cape fear river I have no choice but to cross where I have seen a alligator go in the water, due to it being a narrow canal at certain areas. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable. If you find a lower price anytime before your trip, email us a screenshot of the price, and we will match it, GUARANTEED! Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. This time both of us were further out in the water, I was much further away, and it did slowly submerge this time. 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. Best places for kayaking in Florida. My life is all about it. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. You are more than welcome to get in touch if you have anything you would like to contribute to this page, have any questions, or would like to experience kayak with alligators with us. Back to music, there are a few things that would concern me. Hey there kayak lovers! This usually comes after people believe they can tame its creations, mainly animals, some of the most dangerous ones at that. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. While alligators can attack your kayak, the reality is they probably won't. Alligators are extremely powerful creatures but will only attack if they feel threatened or if they see you as food. The point here is that in general alligators truly are more afraid of you than you are of them. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. 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. Education and information are how you stay safe while kayaking with alligators in the state of Florida. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. So what are you waiting for? Witnessing multiple alligators swimming through a pond should signal to you, its time to pay attention. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. 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. Have fun, be safe and keep paddling! The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. I use a hard plastic kayak. Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the U.S. and Costa Rica Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? However, the gators still knew I was there, and I did need to keep an eye out for them. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. On this 90-degree day, you have entered alligator mating season. While the idea. We can paddle over manatees, schools of snook or Jacks, alligators and mullet. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? - Just Go! This will keep your eyes on the gator and put the kayak in the position they dont like. You know that phrase fish out of water? This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? Your article has provided me this morning much useful information to guide me before my maiden voyage this coming Monday in May where temperatures are now in the 90s. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. I was releasing them as quickly as possible, making sure no alligators were hiding out below the surface of the water, ready to snatch my catch or my hand. I would definitely recommend hitting a gator on the head with your paddle if they are coming at you and close enough, but if they are able to bite your paddle, they will not let go and could pull you in. Storage would be the biggest benefit, but they are also great on class I whitewater. - Just Go! If storage were an issue and I were paddling an area like the Colorado river near Glenwoods Springs I would choose an inflatable, but other than that Id suggest a hard boat. Cost of Entry: $10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals also available. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. The simple answer is no. 1. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Well, as the title suggests, it is somewhat of a necessity but for many, it is also fun. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. I just moved from Maine to Venice. Just play it safe and enjoy your kayaking! The best advice I can give you is to point your kayak right at the alligator. If the gator swims directly at you, you should line the kayak to point directly at him, then back paddle. Alligators normally tend to avoid humans. Hit the kayak's side with the paddle, blow your PFD whistle, or use an air horn. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. Anyway, this meant I could not spend my final summer in college as a kayak guide in Maine, like the previous two. Save. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. I immediately stopped because the waterway couldnt have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that spot. Just lightly dropping it maybe 3 inches is enough to resonate a long distance. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Staying Active During Pregnancy, 11 Best Marine Carburetor for Your Boat 2023 High-rated Carburetors, Yamaha Outboard Ignition Switch Replacement: Perfect for Your Yamaha Outboard, Fulton Swing Tongue Failure: 3 Reasons With The Solutions, 13 Best Hydraulic Jack Plate 2023 Seamless Performance, Mercruiser Alpha One Lower Unit Oil Type Boost Engines Longevity, How To Tie Down a Kayak on a Roof Rack Kayak Transportation, How To Build a Boat Seat Box? Great article, thank you. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. I saw 10+ gators but I also had 2 or 3 moments where everything was quiet but then the water erupted with splashing right in front of the kayak in a quick loud burst that scared me badly each time. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. It confirms the statement that they will let you be if you let them be. Alligators have shorter and broader snouts than crocodiles. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Female alligators are great mothers, and they will defend their nest and young. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. 4. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. They just want to fight you. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. With that said, Nile Crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. Is it Safe to Do. Wear a life jacket! They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. Most alligators that slip into the water ahead of the arrival of a kayak are taking refuge on the river or lake bottom until the 'hazard' passes. If you are looking for a great place to kayak in Florida, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is an excellent choice. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Never saw it but something changed the direction of my kayak about 30. However, there are a few steps people can take to increase their safety when doing so. 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. Also, you need to think about whether that gator is close to a boat launch because fisherman are cleaning their catch. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. We actually stand up in them to spot the manatees. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs A Comprehensive Guide. If an alligator starts to associate people with a meal, then at that point, they can become dangerous. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Buy a quality primary paddle and always bring a spare. JOHNS COUNTY - See you later, alligator! Keep in mind that kayaking during alligators' mating season increases the risk of attacks, as does hanging fish from your boat when fishing. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. photos by Lee Howard We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. We also understand that alligators, like people, can be moody. If thats the case you need to pay more attention. @jgram2 's link covers all the other do's and don'ts. 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. All in all its best to keep as much distance as you can from them when you can help it. That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. Youre welcome. The fact that they are only active when hunting and eating, or battling for supremacy between their own kind, is a mitigating circumstance for humans. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. 10/22/2021. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. Avoid kayaking in areas with known alligator populations, such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him. Basically, every day at 3oclock, I would hop in the canoe and fish for bass and bream. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado? Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. Our posts may contain affiliate links. 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. If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to. You know water sports you know me! I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Ive lived in South Carolina for 30 years and only started kayaking last week. In order to prevent health problems, such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. We get this question all the time. The alligators would begin to show up as soon as I began catching fish. 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. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Always pay attention to your surroundings. the elusive gators, but I dont want to unknowingly annoy the animal. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! 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. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. Other kayakers have reported seeing odd-behaving alligators approaching their kayak as if expecting a hand-out. 3) Snorkel & Explore Dry Tortugas National Park. Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. rubber Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Also again a huge thank you for taking the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly appreciated!! The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. They will also raise their bodies out of the water when the air temp is warmer than the water. It has happened before. >> the tail went on our kayak. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. I had to change my tactics on landing them. No problem! Ive never noticed gators reacting to me looking directly at them. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. 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. Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. Stay inside the boat. Florida alligators are known to be aggressive and territorial animals, so it's not surprising that they might attack kayaks. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. Typically, an adult alligator will prey on fish, snakes, turtles, small mammals, and birds. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. Is there anything known that I can do to protect myself, like punch a shark in the nose or poke its eye. 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. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. I am happy I was able to help you out! Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. . Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. If you should encounter an alligator, try to stay calm and keep your distance. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Please let me know what you think. Thank you for volunteering for cleanup! In our waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can get. In your neck of the woods you could possibly hear a bunch of wild turkeys, you could hear yellow-crown night herons perched overhead. Can You Kayak While Pregnant? The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. 1. FWC's mission is to conserve, protect, and enhance the natural and cultural resources of Florida. 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. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. As far as building confidence goes, I recommend booking a guided kayak tour there and look for a guide thats been doing it for a while. Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. If you combine proper preparation with the right gear and knowledge, it can be safe to kayak with alligators. First encounter with a wild gator & its still very memorable! [edit] I dont think your kayaking style would attract an alligator unless you were splashing like a fish or bird in distress. The first is that of alligators. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. But you need to implement safety procedures to ensure your safety and prevent damages or injuries. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. I kayak in the cape fear river in wilmington, nc. In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Who feeds a wild Alligator? Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. This is where we start to get into the scenarios when kayaking with alligators could be dangerous. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. The largest alligator recorded in Florida was 17 1/2' long. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. It's always best to use common sense even though it's very safe. For our Naples location in particular I wouldnt use an inflatable due to the number of barnacles, and oysters in the area. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. I would say if you paddled by them and they finally did go into the water you got to close. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. The entirety of Florida; In Louisiana and Florida, more than a million alligators each may live in those two states, by far making them the riskiest places for kayakers, boaters, and swimmers. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Thank you! If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? Alligators live throughout Florida. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. I loved it so much the first time that I bought my own the same week. If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. Are Kayaks Safe from Alligators? 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. You could even have one swim directly at you.