For a look at a cornucopia of options, browse Paddle Florida for any and all options for those that want to gain a deeper connection to nature and its wildlife in the Central Florida region. Depending on your ideal excursion, you can cater your Florida vacation to your group and its needs. Whether it is watery creatures, historic forests, or a glimpse back in time, Florida offers a multitude of places to visit when not enjoying a relaxing time at your vacation villa.
Meet the Manatees
The Blue Spring is the largest spring that feeds the St. John’s River, offering beautiful scenery for kayaking throughout. Adjacent to the Blue Spring State Park, this river offers fishing, paddling, and boating, so use caution when motors are nearby. After a short paddle, find yourself amongst manatees that glide through the water gracefully. From there, the Blue Spring State Park provides a number of family activities, including camping, picnicking, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and river boat tours after a day of paddling.
Take the Scenic Route
The Dora Canal provides one of the most picturesque paddling experiences in Central Florida. Linking Lakes Eustis and Dora, this short journey is flanked by striking cypress trees, perfect for aspiring photographers and nature lovers alike. Multitudes of water birds, alligators, and otters live in the area adding to the pristine landscape that only nature has touched. Mount Dora, a nearby town, is most desired for its Victorian airs, restaurants, and antique shops. Spend the night at the Lakeside Inn, built in 1883, for a taste of vintage charm.
Disney’s Hidden Gem
Located along the border of Disney property in Kissimmee, Shingle Creek lies within Shingle Creek Regional Park. Flanking its borders are beautiful cypress trees and a myriad of wildlife, including alligators, water birds, and turtles. Voyaging on this seven-mile journey, the peaceful area gives a sense of relief and tranquility in nature, before mankind made its mark on the world.
Danger – Gators!
Before any adventurous excursion, it’s essential to know the best ways to remain safe from predators. To avoid unwanted contact with alligators, consider contacting the local Fish and Game department for the latest information regarding mating season and times of day with increased predator activity. This is usually around dawn and dusk, but can vary slightly from region to region. When encountering an alligator, it’s recommended to stay 100 feet away at all times for safety. If the reptile runs into the water suddenly and appears to be charging, it’s most likely getting into the water to feel safe as quickly as possible. Continue to maintain as much distance as you can and remain calm. If you see a smaller alligator with yellow stripes, it’s a juvenile and it’s almost certain that its mother will be nearby. Although these may be tempting to approach, a territorial mother with rows of teeth is not the ideal opponent to tangle with, especially while on vacation!
Follow these simple tips and you and the whole family will enjoy your Florida adventure happily and safely.