Paddling South Florida
Alexander Springs
Ocala, Fl
Located in the Ocala National Forest,
Alexander Springs pumps out 76 million gallons of crystal clear water daily.
Like all springs, the temperature is close to 72 degrees year round. To most South Floridians, especially during winter, only northern folk and polar bears can stand long swims in the spring waters. If the frigid water is too much, take the opportunity to paddle it's 7 mile canoe trail or enjoy a leisurely walk through the hiking trails. During summer months, hundreds of huge caterpillars fall from trees surrounding the main swimming area. Wear a large brim hat and cover your drink.
Ginnie Springs
High Springs, Florida
A local described it as "one large party place". On holidays, the college crowd scene is alive and well. Under the persuasion of alcohol, most anything goes. Tubing is the most popular sport besides draining the beer keg. If you can stand the the year round spring temperature of 72 degrees, rent a tube and jump in. Feebly propel yourself across
the ice cold water as your anesthetized limbs no longer obey your commands. See more humans joyfully perched on tubes, air mattresses, and empty beer kegs. Ginnie Springs also provides for snorkelers, divers, and has excellent cave diving. The campground has a general store should you run
out of booze or other necessities.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Fort White, Fl
The crystal clear Ichetucknee River, flows for six miles through beautiful hammocks and swamp before it joins the Santa Fe River. Canoeing and tubing is very popular during summer with shuttle services provided. The park limits the number of people tubing, and food, drink, and disposble items are not allowed on the river. The tubing run is about 2-3 hour float and it is like gliding on aquarium glass.
Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve
Big Pine Key, Monroe County
Sandwiched between Big Pine Key and a stretch of keys named Long Beach is Coupon Bight,
a mostly shallow bay with grass flats where dolphins can be seen. Barracudas and sea turtles are also abundant and
many other species of marine life. There are numerous places to launch from and outfitters are available.
There are some areas of Long Beach where you can stretch your legs but be advised that some are off-limits.
Situated in the middle is Seacamp, dedicated to marine science education which is private property.
For the pampered, Little Palm Island, a private resort, is situated at the tip, with bungalows scattered across the island's interior. This was the site for the movie "PT 109" but now a playground for those willing to dish out serious cash. You can forget about landing here unless you are guest. Paranoid security eyeballs you across the water if you get too close for their comfort. Have fun, head straight at them then turn around just before you touch the beach.
Fossil Reef
Crandon Park
Key Biscayne, Florida
Not really a reef, well maybe thousands of years ago it was. Now a tidal pool surrounded by mangroves
and sugar sand located on the East side of Crandon Park. A perfect place to walk at low tide and look for tiny sea creatures, but wear sandals or old shoes since the reef is extremely jagged and sharp. Best time to go is the cooler months or you'll get eaten alive by
mosquitoes and no-see-ums (tiny teeth with wings). The Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department has started a series of eco-adventure trips to this area. For the self guided, launch from the Crandon Marina and pass under Bear Cut bridge.
Peace River - Zolfo to Gardner to Arcadia run
Arcadia, Florida
Mammoths and mastodons, giant ground sloths, and huge sharks were common here. The Spanish in 1544, called it "Rio de la Paz".
This is a "must" paddle destination in Florida canoeing. Sure it's crowded, the water is dark tea and shared by a few motorboats, hunters dressed in camo, crowds, and fire ants. But on occassion you will find yourself alone
and seemingly far away from the fast life on this slow moving river. Paddle with the gentle stream, watch turtles, the occasional alligator, wading birds, and many other critters. You will be at peace, one with nature, and you might even find a prehistoric shark tooth. The Peace River is over 60 miles long with shorter runs available. Canoe Outpost provides wilderness camping, rentals, and transportation so you can paddle downstream. What could be easier? Excellent for beginners,and darn good fun for everyone!
Flager Monument
Off McArthur Causeway
Miami Beach, Florida
Just off the MacArthur causeway on a tiny two-acre island stands a
monument for the famous railroad tycoon Henry Flagler. You can put-in at
the public ramp of Watson Island. Come early and avoid the Jet-Ski crowd
that number in the dozens. The trip to the monument (about 2 miles) is a
leisurely paddle around expensive waterfront homes and a backdrop of huge
cruise ships from the Port of Miami. Most parts of the island are rocky
but some nice sandy spots are available. There are powerboats anchored ashore but you may still relax and enjoy the lapping waves. And now for the rest of the
story:
The 150 ft. obelisk bears years of abuse by graffiti, vandalism, and
neglect. Piles of beer and trash are scattered throughout, ruining what
could be a perfect escape from the very things that ills the city.
Indian Key
P.O. Box 1052
Islamorada, Florida 33036
(305) 664-4815
This historic key lies off US1 Gulf side in Islamorada where about a 2
mile paddle awaits you. There is really 'little' to see but archeological
ruins but you can relax, close your eyes and almost feel the centuries
rich history. You will not find too many people except fellow kayakers
and there are also no concessions except for observation tower, boat
dock, and shelter. There are no restrooms or picnic facilities, so bring
all the necessities with you. Be aware that most of the island will be
surrounded by mud flats at low tide and you might find your exit
difficult if not impossible. Put in is about Mile Marker 78.5 where
there is available parking on both the Atlantic and Gulf side.
Matheson Hammocks
9601 Old Cutler Rd.
Miami, Forida 33149
305/666-6979
Youth Camping, Swimming, Picnic, Nature Trail, Fishing, Concession
Once you get pass the park attendant's booth turn right before the
bridge. Here you'll find a barely used parking lot. Put-in your vessel
and park your car. Notice the croc warning signs.(I didn't see any of the
critters.) If you go right you'll paddle in a serene waterway of
mangroves which end 1 mile down in a private residence. Turn back and
cross under the bridge. You'll pass the marina with lots of sail and
powerboats so be aware. Stay on your right and you'll see mangrove tidal
pools. The water depth is sometimes inches high so you may have to
portage.There is a shaded picnic area here but why bother. Have your
lunch on the water. Turn back and cross the channel and you'll find the
enclosed beach. Drag your vessel (careful with sharp mussel encrusted
rocks!) to high ground and enjoy the beach.
Whiskey Creek
John U. Lloyd Beach State Recreation Area
6503 N. Ocean Drive
Dania, FL 33004
954/923-2833
This saltwater creek was used during
Prohibition to smuggle liquor hence it's name.
After the entrance there is a parking
and boat ramp on your left.This is where
you put-in. Stay to your right and pass under
the bridge.This is where the creek begins.There are a few powerboats in
this area since it is the deepest part but further up it
drops to a few feet so thankfully boats cannot enter
and for the remaining journey you will meet only fellow paddlers.
The shallow water is clear with a firm sandy bottom so jump in!
There are two wooden pedestrian overpasses
with sandy banks along the shore to provide shade and a nice picnic area.
As the creek
narrows you will find yourself under a mangrove canopy with lot's of
baitfish
skipping in the warm water. This a perfect habitat for the manatee
during the winter months. The creek ends at a fishing pier and
Marina.
John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park
P.O. Box 487, Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-1202
The park offers several miles of mangrove lined trails that are closed
to powerboats.
Something that amazed me was the fact that I did not see any trash!
The only people you might see is another paddler weaving in an out of the
trails.
You'll find yourself enjoying the quiet clear water and see plenty of
marine life including
parrot fish and stingrays.Jump in the water
and relax. If you are daring enough, explore through the narrow and
winding
openings that criss-cross the main canoe trail. The trails are clearly
marked at junctions. A word of advice: Stay away from the
main channel where powerboats abound. Only use this area when needed to
cross to other trails on the opposite side. Some of these
boat captains do not believe in the posted 'Minimum wake'signs and could
care less if they flip you over or force you against the mangrove. Usually these guys are the
dive boats run by the park service! You wont have a problem if you stay in the trail. The canoe
rental shop can provide you with lot's more info.This is a must do trip!
Coral Gables Waterway
This is the same canal that gondoliers once used to ferry guests from the Biltmore Hotel.
Put-in at the circle in CocoPlum or
at University Drive and Bird Road then
find a spot to park. Then view manicured
backyards of the residents. Or better yet:
travel along the golf course for a great
view of the Biltmore Hotel. Paddle under
small bridges and gushing fountains
and count how many times a golf ball strikes
the water.
Hobie Beach
Key Biscayne
Pass the toll booth and hang the first right at the pine trees.
This is unofficially known as Hobie Beach. Find a clear spot
among the shade, setup camp and cast off. Ignore the Voodoo and Santeria
offerings that are everywhere. Later in the afternoon the beach gets
crowded. Parasails, Hobie Cats abound (jet skis are prohibited). The
beach really sucks but the
scenery is great and for a real treat paddle down to the Vizcaya. If you
get bored head back and watch the local
natives.
Note: There is only one bathroom along the strip and it's at the southern
end. Also watch the change in current which could make your paddling
harder. The place really needs to be cleaned up.
Bill Baggs State Park
1200 S. Crandon Blvd.
Key Biscayne, Florida 33149
305/361-5811
Pass the park entrance and head to the Boater's Cafe.
Notice there is no ramp to put-in so improvise. Choose the
dock or the rocks. Take a left
as you head out the bay. Stay alert for fishermen casting.
As you near the lighthouse beware the vicious currents slamming you from
all sides. Enjoy it or avoid it. This is about as close to whitewater as
you'll
ever get in Miami. If you made it this far as you turn the lighthouse
you'll see the beach. Landing any vessel on the beach is a no-no
according to the Park Rangers. So anchor outside the swimming area. Pat
yourself on the back and jump in. Note: bring along snorkel and fishing
gear. The park provides a great beach and other activities like biking
and bird watching.
Oleta River State Park
3400 N.E. 163rd Street
North Miami, FL 33160
305/919-1846.
Though Oleta is known for it's awesome mountain bike trails,
it provides good kayaking and canoeing throughout the park.
The put in is on your right past the park attendant's booth.
This is a small paved area with a clearing in the mangrove. You can stop
and unload there but park your car in the lot that is directly across and
watch out for the mountain bikers. Most of the trails lead into dead ends
but provide shade and interesting scenery. Lots of wildlife abound on the banks including various
species of birds and the ever present raccoon. Some of the biking trails
follow the river so you will see the bikers turn, jump and on occasion
do a head plant. Canoe and kayak rental are available at the concession
stand. The park also has an enclosed beach, fishing area, picnic tables,
and barbecue grills.
Want to know more about a particular trip? Email us!
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�Created 1999 by Juan Rodriguez
