Best Springs to Kayak in Florida
Florida’s springs are beautiful, and they’re perfect for kayaking. Here are our personal favorite springs for kayaking.
Many of these paddling sites are extremely popular, especially during warm weather and when school is out of session. If you plan to visit during a busy time, be sure to plan ahead and make reservations, if possible.
If you visit a spring, or any natural area in Florida, please be respectful of the environment, wildlife and our fellow Florida nature lovers!
1. Ichetucknee Springs
Ichetucknee Springs is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene natural environment, making it a top choice for kayaking in Florida. The spring flows into the Ichetucknee River, surrounded by lush forests and abundant wildlife, offering a peaceful and scenic paddling experience. The gentle current is ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers. It’s also a great place to spot turtles, birds, and fish, enhancing the overall outdoor adventure.
2. Rainbow Springs
Rainbow Springs is a top kayaking destination in Florida, known for its calm, turquoise waters and the gentle flow of the Rainbow River. The spring’s crystal-clear waters offer exceptional visibility, allowing kayakers to view underwater gardens and vibrant aquatic life as they paddle. Its gentle current suits all skill levels, from beginners to experienced kayakers. The wide expanse of the river ensures a peaceful experience, free from overcrowding. Kayakers are surrounded by natural beauty, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. This combination of clear waters, abundant wildlife, and serene environment makes Rainbow Springs a standout choice for kayaking enthusiasts.
3. Weeki Wachee
The Weeki Wachee Springs, and Weeki Wachee River, is a premier destination for kayaking in Florida, celebrated for its stunningly clear waters and a unique mix of natural and recreational features. Originating from the Weeki Wachee Springs, the river offers kayakers a chance to paddle through crystal clear waters, providing views of the diverse underwater ecosystem. The river’s gentle current is suitable for all kayaking levels, making it a great choice for families and beginners, while still offering enough interest for experienced paddlers. Along the way, kayakers can enjoy lush, green landscapes and might even spot manatees, which are often seen in these waters. The river’s combination of natural beauty, wildlife sightings, and clear, navigable waters makes it a top choice for a memorable kayaking experience in Florida.
4. Silver Springs
Silver Springs is renowned for its historic charm and abundant wildlife, making it a unique kayaking destination in Florida. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking here offers a direct connection with nature. The spring’s water is so transparent that kayakers can easily see the diverse aquatic life and ancient trees submerged below. The Silver River, fed by the springs, provides a calm paddling experience, suitable for all skill levels. It’s also a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including turtles, fish, and the famous rhesus monkeys, offering a rare opportunity to observe these animals in their natural environment. The combination of clear waters, rich history, and wildlife diversity makes Silver Springs a captivating and memorable place for kayaking.
6. Three Sisters Spring
Three Sisters Springs is a hidden gem for kayaking in Florida, known for its exceptionally clear, turquoise waters and tranquil setting. This spring system, located in Crystal River, provides an intimate kayaking experience due to its relatively smaller size and secluded location. The waters are often so clear that kayakers can easily see the spring’s sandy bottom and abundant marine life. It’s a popular spot for viewing manatees, especially in the cooler months when they congregate in the warm spring waters. The calm and shallow waters are ideal for paddlers of all levels, offering a serene and picturesque environment. The surrounding natural beauty and the chance to see manatees up close make Three Sisters Springs a highly sought-after destination for kayakers who appreciate wildlife and pristine natural settings.
7. Citrus Blue Spring
Citrus Blue Spring, often less known compared to some of Florida’s other springs, offers a unique and serene kayaking experience. It is characterized by clear, inviting waters and a peaceful environment. This spring is ideal for those seeking a more secluded kayaking spot, away from the more popular and crowded locations. The water clarity allows for good visibility of the underwater landscape and local aquatic life. It’s suitable for kayakers of various skill levels, with a gentle flow that’s easy to navigate. The surrounding natural scenery adds to the tranquility of the experience. Citrus Blue Spring is a great choice for kayakers looking for a quiet, natural escape and the opportunity to paddle in clear, unspoiled waters.
8. King’s Landing
King’s Landing, located in Apopka, Florida, is a premier kayaking destination known for its scenic beauty and rich ecosystem. This spot stands out for its crystal-clear, emerald green waters and the lush, untouched Florida wilderness that surrounds it. Kayaking through King’s Landing feels like a journey back in time, with its canopy of trees, abundant wildlife, and serene natural landscapes. The spring-fed waters offer a refreshing and invigorating kayaking experience, suitable for all skill levels. Paddlers can explore various routes, including the famous Emerald Cut, known for its strikingly clear waters and picturesque views. The diversity of flora and fauna, combined with the pristine condition of the area, makes King’s Landing an exceptional choice for those seeking an immersive nature experience while kayaking in Florida. Nearby Rock Springs in Kelly Park is also extremely beautiful, although kayaking is not allowed inside Kelly Park.
9. Ginnie Springs
Ginnie Springs is renowned for its extraordinary clear, blue waters and vibrant underwater life, making it a favorite kayaking destination in Florida. Situated on the Santa Fe River, it offers a unique kayaking experience with its series of seven springs, each providing its own charm. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for both kayaking and snorkeling, allowing paddlers to enjoy the underwater view as they glide over the springs. Ginnie Springs’ popularity also stems from its lively atmosphere, attracting both adventure-seekers and those looking to relax on the water. The river’s gentle flow is suitable for all levels of kayakers, and the scenic route along the Santa Fe River, flanked by lush greenery, adds to the beauty of the experience. Ginnie Springs’ combination of clear waters, natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a top choice for a memorable kayaking adventure in Florida.
10. Morrison Springs
Morrison Springs, located in Walton County, Florida, is a notable kayaking destination, particularly appealing to those who appreciate natural springs and clear, fresh waters. This spring is known for its remarkable clarity and depth, making it a popular spot for both kayakers and divers. The spring feeds into the Choctawhatchee River, providing a unique kayaking experience with views of underwater formations and abundant aquatic life in the spring area. The surrounding park area is rich in natural beauty, adding to the tranquil experience of paddling in these waters. Morrison Springs offers a more secluded and peaceful kayaking environment compared to some of the busier springs in Florida, making it an excellent choice for kayakers looking for a serene and picturesque paddling adventure.
