Kayaking Trips in the Florida Waterways

Kayaking in the beaches and inland waterways of South Florida has some of the most beautiful and breathtaking sights and sounds you will ever experience. From the tranquility of Intracoastal waterways and mangroves to the gentle shoring of waves and shimmering blue water to your left and right, kayaking has something for everyone. Learn more about the top tips for the safest, most successful, and memorable kayaking experience and where to look for all your kayaking goods and gear before you head out on your next adventure.

Saltwater Kayaking vs. Freshwater Kayaking

Depending on what you want to see and experience, you may want to choose between saltwater and freshwater for your kayaking trips destinations. However, because South Florida is blessed with so many keys and waterways, the brackish water can often bridge from fresh to salt at a moment’s notice. Careful planning may place you in both a freshwater and a saltwater kayaking spot all in one journey. A few incredible kayaking destinations you just can’t miss in South Florida include:

• Little Bahia Honda Island
• The Great Calusa Blueway
• Perky Creek
• Long Key State Park
• Sombrero Beach
• John Lloyd State Park
• Shell Creek
• Blackwater River

Check the Tides and the Weather

Kayaking is a relaxing way to spend a day out on the water. However, you should always check the weather and pay attention to the tides before you head out.

The tides often change at the same time each day, with slight variations. Not planning for the tides, however, can leave you exhausted and can be potentially dangerous. Paddling against the tide can be unmanageable. You want the tides to work in your favor, never against you.

The weather can make an otherwise wonderful day a wet and dangerous journey if you get stuck out in a torrential downpour in the middle of open water. Despite having personal flotation devices on board, some waterways are unsafe to swim to seek additional on-land shelter from inclement weather. Though South Florida storms can be severe, they are often very brief. Keep updated on the weather radar for best results when planning your day.

Plan for the Seasons

South Florida is beautiful all year round. Known for sunny skies, warm weather, and that lovely ocean breeze swirling through the skies, the seasons pay very little mind to extreme changes that are more familiar to occupants up north. However, South Florida does experience some seasonal changes that you should know when planning your kayaking adventure.

Hurricane season lasts from June through late November, and the peak of hurricane season is from August to September. Hurricanes are damaging and extremely dangerous. There is no accurate planning for hurricanes other than to note when hurricane season is and mindfully plan your trip accordingly.

The other seasonal variant to note while planning your excursion has to do with wildlife. While there is always an abundance of wildlife in South Florida, especially in the everglades and mangroves, April through October is the prime time to view the busy goings-on of more wildlife than usual. If you are the kind of person that wants to glide through the water with little interruption serenely, you may want to plan your trip for a different time of year. However, if you have binoculars in your backpack and are ready to record mating calls, be sure to plan for late spring to book your trip.

Nautical Ventures Has Kayaks and Kayak Accessories

Aside from expertly planning your kayaking journey, the next most important thing you’ll need for your adventure is the actual kayak and kayak accessories to make your trip as fun and easy as possible. If you routinely kayak and think that owning your own vessel is an investment that will pay off, you can consider purchasing one. If you know that you are a travel kayaker and carting your supplies around is just too much work, Nautical Ventures also has a wide selection of kayaks for rent to meet your specifics.

Kayaks For Sale or Rent

When deciding between renting or buying a kayak, there are several different factors to keep in mind. Many people who enjoy kayaking regularly tout the benefits of owning your kayak, and the familiarity of having your vessel improves your experience on the water. Others say that destination kayaking is a better option to experience all that kayaking offers, and transporting and storing kayaks is too much of a burden to bear. Hence, kayak rental is the best option. Consider other important factors to make your own decision.

• Limited rentals
• Get to try out different boats
• Unsure of damages
• Insurance may vary
• Storage
• Transport
• Weight variation

What Kayak Accessories To Pack for Your Trip

Kayaking is just you, your kayak, the open water, and all your gear, snacks, binoculars, sunscreen, and any accessories that make the trip seamless and more fun. But seriously, kayaking is a freeing experience, but certain items just make the journey better. You don’t have to weigh down your boat to include everything but the kitchen sink, but there are essential kayak accessories that you should keep on your checklist to ensure the best results. First and foremost, remember that it is Florida state law that you have a personal flotation device on board with you at all times you’re out on the water. You do not have to wear it at all times, but you must have it with you. Other accessories you may want to include are:

• Coolers
• Anchors
• Spray skirts
• Storage
• Fishing gear
• Rod holders
• Electronic
• Navigation

What Else to Pack for Your Trip

Depending on how long your trip will be, you will want to be sure to pack adequate water and food to keep you hydrated and nourished. The sun reflecting on the water all day can really take it out of you, and dehydration can set in before realizing it. It is a severe condition. Sunscreen will help protect you from harmful UV rays, but many kayakers also bring hats and sunglasses for an additional layer of protection. You may choose to pack your cell phone or another communication device, but be aware that the service is not good in some locations, so radio frequency is a better communication tool. Other items that are popular to bring along for kayaking adventures are:

• Cameras
• Binoculars
• Personal protection
• Flashlights
• First aid kits

Start Planning Your Kayaking Adventures

With some fantastic destinations and smart tips to guide your planning, start booking your trip right away. Stay mindful of the weather in South Florida before you head out on the water. Be sure to bring binoculars to see any of the amazing wildlife that the area has to offer. On your way out, grab your kayak and accessories from Nautical Ventures Marine Center.

To find quality kayaks for rent and for sale or to learn more about which accessories will make your trip seamless, contact Nautical Ventures today for more information.