I was out canoeing with Bailey, a friend of mine from Tampa Pest Control and I decided to write this. For many of us, with nature is where we would rather be. And what obvious better way is there to connect with the nature around you than kayaking? There is something about gliding along the calm, crystal-clear water that makes you feel restored and rejuvenated. This is probably the reason why kayaking is a favorite pastime for people across the world. Whether you like cool, calm waters or fast-moving whitewater, this is an activity you can engage in and never get tired of it.
Orlando is a hotspot for kayaking and canoeing. This is because the city has some of the most beautiful springs and rivers in Florida, making it difficult to even choose among them. Luckily, we have selected some notable kayaking spots in Orlando that will definitely offer you the best way to experience nature.
Silver springs state park
Well, the essence of kayaking is not just to move about on the water but also to experience the wonders of nature. If you are into spotting wildlife, then Silver Spring state park is among the best kayaking areas in Orlando. People usually opt to go on glass-bottom boat tours, allowing them to explore the river on an up-close level. But if you really like to explore at your own pace, simply hop onto a kayak and float along. You will have lots of time to take in the natural environment around you, including the suspended junglelike vines, native birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.
Merrit Island Refuge Bioluminescence
While the majority of people are perfectly familiar with daytime kayaking, the nighttime experience is second to none. Merrit Island provides an unforgettable nighttime kayaking adventure with lots of excitement. For starters, disturbances in the water activate the bioluminescence, which lights up the water with blue. The blue light is what makes the water come alive even in the darkest of nights. The most surreal sight is when swimming fish lights up the water, or a school of flying mullet fish decides to jump right into your kayak.
Wekiwa springs
The Wekiwa Springs is a great place to get on a kayak or canoe and fully enjoy your time out in the water. It’s actually a good location for both beginners and advanced paddlers. Furthermore, the scenery around the spring is quite mesmerizing. You can see the oak trees that have stood proudly along the river banks for centuries from the water. The gentle currents will slowly drift your kayak along the water as you indulge in the breathtaking views. In addition, you don’t have to confine yourself to the kayak all day long. The crystal-clear spring is perfect for swimming, and you even have the rare opportunity to get all personal with everything beneath the water surface. Keep an eye out for alligators sunbathing on the river banks.
Blue Spring state park
The blue spring is quite a unique area for kayaking or canoeing. For instance, it offers access to the St. John’s River, and this is one of those places you will not just hear of an alligator, but you will actually see it. It’s also the winter home of the manatees, which are among the park’s main attractions. With that said, the reason why you will like kayaking at this park is due to the historic Thursby House. The Thursby House dates all the way back to 1872, and you will have plenty of time to tour it. On that note, don’t end the day without visiting the spring’s boil.
Crystal River/Kings bay
While there are so many locations in Orlando with manatees, you stand a better chance of spotting one any time of the year at the Crystal River. The crystal river area is home to the manatees throughout the year, and there is nothing as exciting as spotting this sea mammal right next to you while kayaking. For the best experience, get a guided tour to find the manatees easily. Additionally, most people visit in the colder months of fall or winter. The water temperatures here are warm, and hence the manatees prefer to congregate in the area in winter.
Lake County Blueways
This is the place for an all-round paddling experience. There are eight runs on the lake county Blueways, and all marked as a way to guide the visitors. There are trails for both the casual and veteran kayakers. The series of trails are ideal for a wide range of people, mostly because of their diversity. For instance, the Golden Triangle run is more of a nature haven filled with nesting herons, egrets, and ospreys. The Blue Creek run consists of four miles of water in which there are alligators in every corner. There is also Lake Harris, Stagger Mud, and Palatlakaha, all of which offer various kayaking experiences, wildlife, scenery, and solitude.
Cape Canaveral National Seashore
The Cape Canaveral national seashore is just about an hour’s drive to the northeast of Orlando. For sure, it is a place you will enjoy exploring since it has so much to offer. Its wildlife sanctuary is an ideal place for spotting manatees as they relax in the water. You can launch your kayak navigating through the mangrove trees and oaks lining the shoreline from the Mosquito Lagoon. Besides, it’s undoubtedly a good idea to explore the entire seashore from the northern portion down to the south if you have plenty of time.
Conclusion
We know that there are many ways people can enjoy what Mother Nature has provided, but kayaking surely beats them all. It’s an opportunity to discover the diverse lakes, rivers, springs, and bays while at the same time spotting wildlife. For the adrenaline lovers, this is the perfect time to get into the fast-moving, raging waters and have a feel of adventure. With that said, your safety should come first before everything else. Thus make sure you are taking all the safety precautions and regulations seriously. Speaking of safety, Tampa Pest Control is exactly what you need to completely eliminate any bothersome pests in your home, garage, warehouse, and anywhere else. Give Bailey a call, he is the best.
