Kayaking In Florida; A Different Approach To "Fun In The Sun"

Florida is often a popular destination for tourists and not just in the summer, but all year long. Florida offers miles of sandy beaches, annual warm weather, great shopping adventures and wonderful dining. Most people head straight for the beach when visiting Florida, taking in the sun at places like Daytona Beach, Boynton Beach, and private beaches along Clearwater and Orlando. While these are great relaxation spots, sometimes they can get overcrowded and it's hard to appreciate the natural beauty of Florida. That's why Florida is also home to several kayaking adventures, where you can experience a unique aspect to fun in the sun.

In central Florida, check out A Day Away Outfitters and Kayak Tours. Centered on Merritt Island, A Day Away offers tours aimed specifically at viewing dolphins, manatee, and alligator. You'll also have a chance to catch a glimpse of wild turkeys and pigs lurking in the woods surrounding the islands. Each tour is guided by a professional kayaking instructor and is available seven days a week.

If you're visiting or live around south Florida, Atlantic Coast Kayak Company provides informative kayaking classes and guided tours. Take a tour around the infamous Florida Keys, where you'll be able to take a pit stop and swim with the dolphins if conditions are favorable. For a truly unique kayaking experience, consider taking a tour to Whiskey Creek. Located between the beach and the waterway within John Lloyd State Park, Whiskey Creek is popular for spotting beautiful aquatic birds, a variety of saltwater fish, and even stingrays! Not only will you catch views of wildlife only seen on the discovery channel, but you'll also have the chance to see the large and historic ships of Port Everglades.

If you reside in Florida or plan to visit several times a year, consider becoming a member of the Florida Sea Kayaking Association (FSKA). You can receive significantly discounted kayaking trips all around Florida, and privileges to some of Florida's most serene and prestigious kayaking locations. Joining this or a similar kayaking association could save you lots of money if kayaking is one of your frequent hobbies.

Finally, if you plan to be in the Orlando area and have some time for a longer aquatic outdoor excursion, then sign up with Florida Sun Safari National Park Adventure. This eight day journey will lead you through many destinations beginning in Orlando. You'll enjoy a hike through the Everglades National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to view unique aquatic birds and some of Florida's most hidden wildlife. In Key West, you'll be given the opportunity to not only kayak through some of the tranquil waters, but also scuba dive! Experience a picnic lunch and a chance to touch manatees at Canaveral National Seashore on the final day. This unforgettable opportunity costs around $825 per person and covers food and transportation.

Next time you're in Florida, you'll find so many great opportunities for kayaking and other outdoor adventures. Laying out on the beach may soon become your old pastime!