The Best Kayaking Spots in Florida: Our Top 8 Recommended Spots!

Spring in Florida is the perfect time for kayaking —with fewer storms to worry about, you’re free to have a blast on the water. Plus, the early months bring even more wildlife to the state, so you may spot a few manatees or other amazing creatures when your dive into some of Florida’s top natural wonders. We can’t talk about the sunshine state without mentioning the beautiful weather — the cooler temperatures make for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water. Keep reading so you can make the most of your spring in Florida by exploring these iconic kayaking spots.

Top 8 Kayaking Spots in Florida

Weeki Wachee

Weeki Wachee, a spring-fed river in Florida is a popular destination for kayaking and other water-based activities. Visitors from all over the world come to enjoy the scenic beauty of the river.Kayaking along the Weeki Wachee River is an excellent way to relax and escape from the stresses of daily life.

 Weeki Fresh Water Adventures is the only rental facility you need for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards in Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Visitors can enjoy a 2.8-mile journey down the clear and tranquil Weeki Wachee River, surrounded by pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife, including manatees, turtles, otters, storks, pelicans and many species of fish. The journey takes place mainly under the shade of cypress, oak trees and Florida palms. The crystal-clear waters of the river offer stunning views of lush vegetation and a variety of wildlife

Kings landing

Kings Landing is situated right along the pure waters of Rock Springs Run, one of the three main tributaries supplying the Wekiva River Basin. The Wekiva River Basin is a designated National Wild and Scenic River, known for its clear water, ecological significance and cultural heritage. 

Discover Rock Springs Run in four unique ways – a guided tour, four-hour self-guided paddle, 8.5-mile self-guided paddle, or bring your own equipment. With a guided tour, you can enjoy a safe and memorable experience while exploring this hidden oasis in Central Florida. Self-guided adventures allow visitors to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Emerald Cut of Rock Springs Run. Alternatively, you can paddle 8.5 miles downstream for a full day of self-exploration. When the journey comes to an end, a shuttle will transport you back to King’s Landing. Or, bring your own gear and paddle at your leisure, exploring the National Wild and Scenic River on a self-guided tour. 

Thousand Islands

Cocoa Kayaking tours provide an opportunity for families of all ages to experience the ocean and its waterways comfortably and conveniently. They offer safe and guided kayaking tours in the Thousand Islands of Cocoa Beach and the Wildlife Refuge in the Haulover Canal in Titusville, Florida.

Cocoa Kayaking takes visitors on a journey through Florida’s breathtaking  mangrove tunnels in the Thousand Islands. In summer months, bioluminescent tours are available where paddlers can watch the plankton glow around and beneath their kayak. Along with guided tours, Cocoa Kayaking offers single and tandem kayak rentals for a self-guided journey around Merritt Island. They also provide a special opportunity for those looking to give back to the community and help keep the Haulover Canal clean by participating in a FREE guided clean-up tour.

Three Sisters Spring

Three Sisters Springs is a popular natural attraction located in Crystal River, Florida. It is a series of interconnected springs that flow into the Crystal River and is home to various wildlife, including the endangered West Indian Manatee. The clear, 72-degree waters of the springs make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking, especially during the winter months when manatees gather in the warm waters for protection from the colder ocean temperatures. Three Sisters Springs is a designated wildlife refuge and is managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, which regulates access to the springs to protect the manatees and preserve the ecosystem.

One of the options for clear kayak rental on three sisters springs is Get Up and Go Kayaking. They offer clear kayaking tours of Three Sisters Springs and a manatee season tour through Kings Bay to different waterways of the Crystal River. 

Riviera Beach to Peanut Island

Looking for a fun and scenic way to explore the beautiful waterways of Riviera Beach, Florida? Look no further than a kayaking trip to Peanut Island! This charming man-made island, located just offshore, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

With its distinctive peanut shape, Peanut Island is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, fishing and picnicking. And for history buffs, the island is home to the Kennedy Bunker, a former nuclear fallout shelter built for President John F. Kennedy during the Cold War.

Getting to Peanut Island from Riviera Beach is a breeze. A kayaking trip typically takes just 30 minutes in each direction, and the journey is a fantastic way to soak up the sun, enjoy the sights and get some exercise. Just be sure to check the weather and water conditions before you go, and bring plenty of food, water, sun protection and a lifejacket.

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is nestled in the beautiful town of High Springs and boasts crystal-clear springs, rivers, and creeks just waiting to be explored.

With its clear blue waters and lush greenery, Ginnie Springs is a nature lover’s paradise. With a main spring that’s 72 feet deep and produces a whopping 28 million gallons of water daily, you’ll be in for a one-of-a-kind experience. Plus, the clear waters offer unbeatable visibility for kayakers, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the underwater world and natural beauty.

For those looking to make a day of it, Ginnie Springs has plenty to offer. There are designated kayaking trails and areas, as well as campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors.

Honeymoon Island State Park

Honeymoon Island State Park is a beautiful state park located in Florida, USA. It’s a popular destination for beach-goers, nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from everyday life. The park offers four miles of pristine beaches, lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect place for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.

Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, swimming and fishing. Honeymoon Island State Park is home to the Dunedin Causeway, a long bridge that connects the island to the mainland and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Kayaks are available to rent from the concession. 

Curry Hammock State Park 

Curry Hammock State Park is a beautiful state park located in the Florida Keys. It covers over 300 acres of land and is home to a variety of natural habitats, including tropical hardwood hammocks, mangrove forests and sandy beaches. The park is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kayaking is a popular activity at Curry Hammock State Park. The park offers scenic kayaking opportunities giving visitors a chance to see the park’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty from the water. The calm and sheltered waters of the park provide ideal conditions for kayaking, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced paddlers. Visitors can bring their own kayaks or rent one from a nearby outfitter, and there are several launch sites located within the park. 

The state of Florida is home to a variety of stunning waterways, each with its own unique beauty and adventure opportunities. From the pristine springs and rivers of Weeki Wachee, Kings Landing, and Ginnie Springs, to the breathtaking ocean and mangrove tunnels of Cocoa Beach, there’s something for everyone. With a range of kayaking experiences, from guided tours to self-guided paddles, visitors can explore the state’s waterways in a safe and comfortable manner. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a scenic adventure, or a chance to connect with nature, kayaking in Florida is a must-try experience.