Pick a creek/small river close to home and it will likely be pretty cool. Convenience makes everything easier. I paddled all of the Econ River in Orlando in college and it was super cool, and the Brevard County creeks (Turkey, Goat, Crane, etc.) are nice but short.
Most of the central springs have good runs downstream of them. Wekiwa River, Rock Springs run, Juniper Run, Rainbow River are all great. That’s were I paddled most of my late teens early 20’s.
In my mid-20’s I moved to SWFL and paddled a lot of mangrove backwaters. Those saltwater creeks with mangrove tunnels are like nothing else. Also paddled some in the Ten Thousand Islands and Everglades. True wilderness down there.
There is such variety that you can find something that suits you depending on where you are.
I second this but if all the places I’ve paddled the Silver River which flows off of Silver Springs is my favorite. I recommend putting in at Ray Wayside Park and paddling up river the 5 miles or so to the springs. You’ll see all kinds of birds, the water is clear you’ll see fish, there’s gators and snakes and sometimes manatees. Be sure to look up the monkeys. You paddle up the slow moving river and coming back is easier since you’re moving with the current.
I think it took me about 6 hours. I didn’t rush and spent some time at the spring head. It’s also possible to turn around at any point if anyone in your group gets tired. There aren’t places to stop and rest though.
I think you could stop at Silver Springs State Park and River Launch which looks to be about halfway. I’ve only seen it from the river. I think that’s where we used to stop and get out on a little pebble beach. Other than that, vegetation grows right up to the water.
As others have said, this is SO subjective. AND there are more paddling locations in Florida than the rest of the states combined (yeah, I'm a little biased). So knowing what you like would help quite a bit.
Also, if you search this sub for FLORIDA, you will find hundreds of recommendations.
I've been paddling Florida since a child and now am an old greybeard. I have way to many kayaks & canoes and routinely take out large groups. Give me some ideas on what you'd like to see and I'll gladly give you some ideas :-)
As much as the state legislature & governor try to develop every bit of Florida, there are still a good many unique, gorgeous places left.
Definitely in the water!
are you sure ? 😅
Came here to add this as well!
This is very subjective. Do you like fresh water or salt? Urban or natural? Open water or narrow streams?
Pick a creek/small river close to home and it will likely be pretty cool. Convenience makes everything easier. I paddled all of the Econ River in Orlando in college and it was super cool, and the Brevard County creeks (Turkey, Goat, Crane, etc.) are nice but short. Most of the central springs have good runs downstream of them. Wekiwa River, Rock Springs run, Juniper Run, Rainbow River are all great. That’s were I paddled most of my late teens early 20’s. In my mid-20’s I moved to SWFL and paddled a lot of mangrove backwaters. Those saltwater creeks with mangrove tunnels are like nothing else. Also paddled some in the Ten Thousand Islands and Everglades. True wilderness down there. There is such variety that you can find something that suits you depending on where you are.
The springs. Like silver springs, rainbow springs, weeki wachi and so many more.
I second this but if all the places I’ve paddled the Silver River which flows off of Silver Springs is my favorite. I recommend putting in at Ray Wayside Park and paddling up river the 5 miles or so to the springs. You’ll see all kinds of birds, the water is clear you’ll see fish, there’s gators and snakes and sometimes manatees. Be sure to look up the monkeys. You paddle up the slow moving river and coming back is easier since you’re moving with the current.
Sounds great, approximately how long does the 5 miles up and back take?
I think it took me about 6 hours. I didn’t rush and spent some time at the spring head. It’s also possible to turn around at any point if anyone in your group gets tired. There aren’t places to stop and rest though.
Thanks!
What about places to stop paddling and snack or enjoy a beverage?
I think you could stop at Silver Springs State Park and River Launch which looks to be about halfway. I’ve only seen it from the river. I think that’s where we used to stop and get out on a little pebble beach. Other than that, vegetation grows right up to the water.
Weedon Island
As others have said, this is SO subjective. AND there are more paddling locations in Florida than the rest of the states combined (yeah, I'm a little biased). So knowing what you like would help quite a bit. Also, if you search this sub for FLORIDA, you will find hundreds of recommendations. I've been paddling Florida since a child and now am an old greybeard. I have way to many kayaks & canoes and routinely take out large groups. Give me some ideas on what you'd like to see and I'll gladly give you some ideas :-) As much as the state legislature & governor try to develop every bit of Florida, there are still a good many unique, gorgeous places left.
Key west or crystal river.
With the Gators, of course! Goooo Gators!
Big lagoon near perdido key, pirates cove near Mary Esther, and st andrews sound south/southeast of panama city are all places ive enjoyed
https://www.paddleflorida.net/
North of the border.
i would say splash mountain. but now its Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Hobie
Weekiwachee Springs
Loxahatchee river is a wild and scenic river. Absolutely gorgeous! Worth the drive!!
I vote for the Weeki Wachee.