South Florida is more than just chilling at South Beach and going clubbing. We are blessed to have beautiful weather all year long. Not to mention, we have the Florida Everglades in our backyards. People come from all over the world to take a journey through the wetlands.
One of the best ways to get up close to nature is kayaking. Imagine the feeling you get as you push away from land and your paddle takes the first plunge into the water, and you embrace a moment away from your cell phone, where you can fully relax and soak in your environment.
Next time you find yourself bored, or tempted to spend another day sunning yourself at the beach, grab a friend and get to know the real Florida by exploring my top 5 Florida kayak escapes!
1) Loxahatchee River Bend Park
Loxahatchee River Bend park is like Disney World for all kayakers. The employees who work here will advise you to stay on your left but go right and under the bridge! You will thank me later! This route is 10 times more beautiful and you will feel like your in Alabama!
There is also a rope swing where you can plunge into the water and if you are lucky you will encounter manatees and alligators during your kayak!
This park is also not far away from Blowing Rocks Natural Preserve, meaning you can visit both parks in one day. Blowing Rocks gives off that west coast vibe, but on the east coast.
2) Robbies
Robbie’s is one of my all-time favorite spots to kayak especially if you are a beginner! Rental is around $15 (each) for a tandem per hour. This route is short but you can see so much within that time! As you kayak through the mangrove tunnels you will encounter lots of key critters and if you are lucky you can spot a manatee here too.
Also, there is a 99% chance you will find an alligator hanging out at someone’s property, but don’t panic, they are completely harmless if you leave them alone.
3) Weeki Wachee River
This river is around 4 and a half hours away from Miami, but it is definitely worth the trip. The water is so clear, it’s almost unbelievable. As you kayak make sure you look down because you will see lots of wildlife at Weeki Wachee River!
But whilst you are looking down, don’t forget to also look up, because you will find many opportunities along the 5-mile river to climb up a tree and plunge into the water!
4) Indian Key
Go explore this tiny island on your way to The Keys. It’s a beautiful historical site and a hidden gem where you can have the whole island to yourself.
This is a unique spot for a picnic and the wooden observational tower offers you a spectacular view of the island. This island is around 1.5 miles away from shore so it’s easy to access.
5) Everglades Nine Mile Pond
The Nine Mile Pond kayak route offers the perfect opportunity to experience the Everglades up close as you drift through the dense mangrove forests! Every single time I come here, I feel like I’m in a scene from Jurassic Park because you never know what you will encounter!
After your adventure make sure you stop by the restaurant and order the veggie burger with fries, and the delicious key lime pie.
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Florida for a kayak escape! If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.
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Read More About Florida
- 5 Fantastic Florida Kayak Escapes
- The Best Of Key West – Beyond Duval Street
- Dry Tortugas National Park: A Fortress In The Sea
- How To Have The Perfect Florida Keys Roadtrip
- The Best Things Central Florida Has To Offer
- A Guide To Exploring Miami’s Design District
- 28 Of The Best Hotels And Restaurants In South Beach, Miami
We Are Travel Girls Contributor Leticia Romano
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Claudette Donnarumma says
Amazing article
Emma Forrester says
Great article. Will have to put this on my list of things to do when traveling around America.
We Are Travel Girls says
Us too Emma! We love kayaking and Florida looks like a great place to explore!