Best places to kayak in Florida

Sportsman's Warehouse in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier outdoor gear store located at 13075 City Square Drive. Established in December of 2022, our store offers a wide range of products and services to help outdoor enthusiasts create unforgettable memories. Whether you're into hunting, fishing, boating, kayaking, camping, hiking, or simply enjoying a cookout, we have everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest. In addition to our extensive selection of gear, we also offer National Gunsmithing services for those in need. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to assist you in finding the perfect equipment for your outdoor activities, and our ongoing seminars and special events provide opportunities for learning and community engagement.

Vacayzen - Seagrove Store is a charming travel agency and store located in the picturesque beach town of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Situated at 4042 East County Highway 30A, this institution offers a wide range of products and services for travelers looking to enhance their vacation experience. From beach essentials to unique souvenirs, Vacayzen - Seagrove Store has everything you need to make your trip to the beautiful Gulf Coast unforgettable. Whether you're in need of sunscreen, beach towels, or local artwork, this store has you covered. Stop by and browse their selection of items while planning your next seaside adventure in this stunning coastal community.

Island Outfitters is a premier clothing store and outdoor retailer located at 235 East Gulf Beach Drive in Saint George Island, Florida. Specializing in tackle, outdoor gear, clothing, and kayak sales and rentals, we are the best place to gear up for your next adventure on the Florida’s Forgotten Coast and the Big Bend area. As an authorized dealer for Hobie Kayaks, Stand Up Paddle Boards, TAHE Sports Stand Up Paddle Boards, and Yakima gear, we offer top-of-the-line products to enhance your outdoor experience. Our captain-owned and operated shop has been serving the community since 2003, with expert advice and a passion for fishing and outdoor activities. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, we are here to help outfit you and your family for a memorable experience on St. George Island. Visit us today for all your outdoor needs!

Paddletail Lodge is a lodging institution located at 614 Northwest US-19, Crystal River, Florida, United States. The lodge offers guided tours to watch and swim with humble and lovable manatees. They provide excellent quality kayaks for rental, as well as quality boats for 10-17 passengers with bimini tops. The lodge also features a casual Southern eatery with Caribbean/Florida cuisine, indoor/outdoor gathering spots for lunch and cocktails, and a poolside Tiki bar with light fare. The newly-renovated accommodations at Paddletail Lodge feature quality bedding, amenities, refrigerators, microwaves, and 50-inch televisions. Guests can choose from rooms with one king bed, two double beds, standard rooms, or rooms with kitchenettes. The lodge offers various manatee snorkel tours, including a small group tour and a private tour option.

Chassahowitzka River Lodge is a charming lodging establishment nestled in the heart of Homosassa, Florida. Situated at 8501 West Miss Maggie Drive, this cozy retreat offers a peaceful escape for visitors looking to relax and unwind. The lodge boasts comfortable accommodations, picturesque views of the Chassahowitzka River, and a serene atmosphere perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Guests can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply lounging by the river, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its tranquil setting and warm hospitality, Chassahowitzka River Lodge is the perfect place to experience the beauty of Florida's natural surroundings.

Cedar Blessings RV Park is a charming lodging facility located at 11951 Southwest Shiloh Road in Cedar Key, Florida. This peaceful retreat offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the laid-back island time lifestyle. Guests can enjoy exploring the quaint downtown Historic District, filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Horse-drawn carriage rides, kayaking adventures, sunset boat cruises, and fishing trips are just a few of the activities available in the area. And don't forget to sample the fresh farm-raised clams from Cedar Key, known as the top clam producing community in the USA.

Drift Hotel, located at 95320 Overseas Highway in Key Largo, Florida, is a unique lodging destination that offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys. This hidden gem is a haven for day trippers, romantics, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Guests at Drift Hotel can enjoy a secluded and picturesque setting, with stunning views of the ocean and an array of wildlife. From pelicans soaring overhead to dolphins playing in the distance, the natural beauty of the Florida Keys is on full display here.

Welcome to Boca Grande Hotel! Located at 5800 Gasparilla Road in Boca Grande, Florida, our lodging institution is the perfect place to stay while exploring the beautiful Gasparilla Island. Known for its world-class tarpon fishing and stunning beaches, Gasparilla Island is a popular destination for weddings and events. Rent a bike or golf cart and spend your days relaxing on the island's beaches, visiting historic landmarks, going on a fishing charter, or exploring other attractions. After a day of adventure, retreat to one of our comfortable king or queen rooms for a restful night's sleep.

Tropical Gardens Travel Park is a stunning RV Park Community located in Bradenton, Florida. With a mix of tropical scenery and a naturistic spin, our grounds are full of palm trees and lush greenery, providing a beautiful backdrop for your stay. Our Pull Thru sites are paved concrete platforms with plenty of space and a picnic table provided. Enjoy a variety of amenities, both indoor and outdoor, including a pool, recreation areas, and a full-service laundry room. Our community is clean, quiet, and gated, providing a safe and friendly environment for our residents.

Angler's Inn is a cozy 4-unit vacation destination located in Historic Matlacha, Florida. This pet-friendly motel on the water offers boat dockage and is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. Each efficiency unit features a fully outfitted kitchenette, screened-in lanai overlooking the water, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and other amenities. Guests can enjoy exploring the area by bike or kayak, with the opportunity to see manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird life. The motel also offers a fire pit for cool evenings and provides kayaks for guests to use. Restaurants, shops, and galleries are within walking distance, making it easy to experience the charm of this fishing village. Whether you want to relax by the water, explore the island, or go fishing, Angler's Inn is the perfect choice for your stay in Matlacha.

The Regency Inn & Suites Sarasota is a top boutique lodging option located at 4200 North Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, Florida. Our clean and comfortable guest rooms are perfect for your fun-filled Florida vacation. Situated off the North Tamiami Trail Highway 41, our hotel is within walking distance to popular attractions, museums, beaches, restaurants, and shopping. We are close to universities such as USF, Ringling College of Art and Design, SCF, and Argosy University. Our hotel offers a range of amenities including a heated outdoor pool, free parking, on-site laundry services, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Whether you are visiting local colleges or planning a romantic coastal escape, our hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere with friendly locals and world-class beaches. We are near top attractions such as the Ringling Museum, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Sarasota Gardens, and live performance venues like The Asolo Theater.

Big Lagoon Paddlecraft Launch is a picturesque park located in Pensacola, Florida, United States. This institution offers a convenient and beautiful spot for visitors to launch their paddlecraft and explore the stunning Big Lagoon. The park provides easy access to the water, making it the perfect place for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding adventures. With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, Big Lagoon Paddlecraft Launch is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Rotary Park is a picturesque natural oasis located in Cape Coral, Florida. Situated at 5505 Rose Garden Road, this park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking trails, and peaceful picnic areas, Rotary Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking in the park's tranquil surroundings. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun outdoor adventure, Rotary Park has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Cape Coral.

Peanut Island Park is a beautiful campground, lodging, and park located at 6500 Peanut Island Rd in Riviera Beach, Florida, United States. Situated along the Intracoastal waterway near the Lake Worth Inlet, this park offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Please note that the use of balloons is prohibited at this park and alcohol possession or consumption is restricted to camping permit areas only. There is no food or rental concession located on the island, so be sure to bring all necessary items for your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Plan your visit to Peanut Island Park for a relaxing and memorable outdoor experience.

Welcome to the William J "Billy Joe" Rish Recreation Area, located at 6773 Cape San Blas Road in Port St. Joe, Florida, United States. This 100-acre park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all abilities. The park features boardwalk access to the beach, bay, swimming pool, and nature trail, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Two family-style cabins are available for reservations, providing a comfortable and convenient place to stay for those looking to explore the park.

Located at 6106 63rd Street East in Bradenton, Florida, Jiggs Landing is a park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Explore the Evers Reservoir and Braden River with experienced Captains who can guide you through the area's history and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in kayaking, fishing, bird watching, or simply relaxing by the water, Jiggs Landing has something for everyone. Take a kayak tour to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and capture stunning photos of the landscape. Fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels can benefit from guided tours and learn new techniques from experienced guides. The preserve is a hidden gem that offers overnight cabin stays, boat rentals, tours, and live music events.

Stump Pass Beach State Park is a hidden gem located at the southwest corner of Charlotte County in Englewood, Florida. This mile-long beach is a popular destination for visitors looking to relax, swim, sunbathe, and search for seashells and shark teeth. Anglers also frequent the surf in search of prize catches. The park features a hiking trail that passes through five distinct natural communities, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife species. Covered picnic tables are located along the trail, offering a place to rest and enjoy a meal. Visitors can also launch a kayak and explore the two islands located just east of the park.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park North Cape Flats Trail is a stunning natural oasis located in Cape Coral, Florida. Covering an impressive 45,387 acres, this park is the third largest in the state of Florida and offers visitors a chance to explore over 100 miles of pristine shoreline along Charlotte Harbor. Visitors to the park can partake in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation. The park boasts diverse natural habitats including mangrove forests, marshes, scrublands, and pine flatwoods, making it a haven for a wide range of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy the chance to spot wading birds, manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Biscayne National Park, located in Florida, United States, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. With evidence of 10,000 years of human history, from prehistoric tribes to shipwrecks, the park is rich in cultural and natural heritage. Visitors to Biscayne National Park can enjoy boating, fishing, and diving in its pristine waters, or simply relax and take in the peaceful scenery. Boating is a popular way to explore the park, with opportunities for canoeing and kayaking along the mangrove-fringed shorelines and shallow bay waters.

Pine Glades Natural Area, located at 14122 West Indiantown Road in Jupiter, Florida, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for being the best place to view the sunset in Palm Beach County. Spanning 6,651 acres, this wetland wonderland is a haven for colorful wading birds such as the roseate spoonbill, great blue heron, little blue heron, and white ibis. Visitors can enjoy capturing images of these beautiful birds in their natural habitat or bring a kayak or canoe to explore the wetlands up close. Pine Glades Natural Area offers a peaceful and picturesque escape into nature for all who visit.

Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park is a historical site and park located at 9060 West Indiantown Road in Jupiter, Florida. This park is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the site of a significant battle that took place during the Second Seminole War. In addition to its historical significance, Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park is also a beautiful natural area that offers stunning views of the Loxahatchee River. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, picnicking areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wekiva Island, located at 1014 Miami Springs Drive in Longwood, Florida, is a unique institution that offers a combination of a bar, food, park, and restaurant experience. As Central Florida's favorite watering hole, Wekiva Island provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the natural springs of Florida, particularly the pristine Wekiva River and its diverse wildlife. Whether you want to paddle along the river in a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, or simply relax on the island's 2,000 square feet of recreational space, there's something for everyone at Wekiva Island. The institution is dedicated to sustainability, environmental education, and the promotion of art, making it a special place worth protecting and sharing with the community.

Tooting Otter is a popular bar and food institution located at 1014 Miami Springs Drive in Longwood, Florida, United States. Proudly known as Central Florida's favorite watering hole, Tooting Otter offers a unique experience for visitors to enjoy the incredible natural springs of Florida. Situated just north of Orlando, Wekiva Island provides opportunities to explore the pristine Wekiva River and its diverse wildlife through activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With over 2,000 square feet of Island fun, guests can also enjoy a variety of food and drinks in a sustainable and environmentally conscious setting. At Tooting Otter, the mission revolves around sustainability, education, and art, with a focus on protecting and sharing this special place with the community. The institution hosts events such as craft beer festivals and Winter Wonderland celebrations, featuring activities like "snow" flurries, a Christmas tree forest, visits from Christmas characters, and even Santa's Workshop. Tooting Otter is committed to giving back to the community and creating memorable experiences for all visitors.

Gulf Island National Seashore is a stunning park located in Pensacola Beach, Florida. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem of pristine beaches, sparkling blue waters, and lush coastal forests. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking in this beautiful natural setting. With its rich history, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, Gulf Island National Seashore is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Rocky Bayou State Park Aquatic Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Niceville, Florida, United States. This park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a tranquil setting where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The preserve is home to a diverse array of aquatic wildlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking. With its crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation, Rocky Bayou State Park Aquatic Preserve is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the heart of nature. Whether you're looking to explore the underwater world or simply enjoy a peaceful day by the water, this park has something to offer for everyone.

Saint George Island State Campground, located at 1900 East Gulf Beach Drive in Saint George Island, Florida, is part of the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park. Situated on a barrier island along Apalachicola Bay, this campground offers visitors a slice of paradise with miles of undeveloped beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities like canoeing and kayaking. The park is a popular destination for beach lovers, bird watchers, and anglers, with stunning Gulf of Mexico sunsets and excellent stargazing opportunities. On the gulf side of the island, visitors can enjoy pristine blue waters and white sandy beaches, while the bay side is home to healthy marshes teeming with wildlife.

Hagens Cove Park in Perry, Florida is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers. This park offers stunning views of the pine islands, natural beaches, and shallow bays of the Gulf of Mexico. During low tide, visitors can explore the mud flats that are home to a variety of shorebirds and wading birds. The observation tower provides a bird's eye view of the surrounding area, allowing visitors to take in the beauty of the landscape. This park is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and take in the sights and sounds of the Gulf coast. Funding for this park is provided by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. Be sure to check out our blog post on Wade For Bay Scallops at Taylor County's Hagens Cove Park for more information on this unique and beautiful destination.

Joe Anderson Park/Boat Ramp is a picturesque park located in Old Town, Florida. Situated at 113 Southeast 155th Avenue, this institution offers a serene and tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. With a boat ramp on site, it is the perfect spot for boating enthusiasts to launch their watercraft and explore the surrounding waters. The park also features beautiful green spaces, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers alike. Whether you are looking to spend a relaxing day by the water or embark on an adventure on the river, Joe Anderson Park/Boat Ramp is the place to be.

Santa Fe Canoe Outpost Park is a charming outdoor destination located at 21410 U.S. 441 in High Springs, Florida. This park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful Santa Fe River by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. With lush greenery, serene waters, and abundant wildlife, this park is the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful day on the water. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle or an adventurous outing, Santa Fe Canoe Outpost Park is the ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Rainbow Springs State Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Dunnellon, Florida. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to its serene waters and lush surroundings. The park features crystal-clear springs, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and picnicking in this peaceful outdoor retreat. With its vibrant colors and abundant wildlife, Rainbow Springs State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.