is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators
Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Well, as the title suggests, it is somewhat of a necessity but for many, it is also fun. 4) Bask In Greatness At The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Keep your Distance. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. I wouldnt say more susceptible, but it does make you more vulnerable to all things sharp. Yes, it does happen! 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. This guy (or gal?) Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. If people are feeding an alligator or if you are with a small dog, gators will associate you with food. As you might have already guessed, alligators like to sleep and they actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping. Please, trust us on this. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. Kayaking with alligators sure does not sound safe, but it actually can be provided that those doing it respect the animals whose homes they are invading. One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the U.S. and Costa Rica The entirety of Florida; In Louisiana and Florida, more than a million alligators each may live in those two states, by far making them the riskiest places for kayakers, boaters, and swimmers. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Kayak with a friend Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. June 16, 2022. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Mullet jumping sound like belly flops and snook strikes sound like hollow claps. Would a spray help? Guide for DIYers, 10 Best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings. Bringing the fish in slower didnt make as much commotion on the top of the water, and often, the gators didnt know I was landing fish. Does the Delaware River have strong currents? Basically, every day at 3oclock, I would hop in the canoe and fish for bass and bream. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. This can be a safe distance that minimizes the risk of your presence becoming threatening through the eyes of the alligator. Mother alligators are dangerous to meddle with because they will attack anything or anybody that they see as a hazard to their babies. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Yes, it is. Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. Very grateful for the thorough advice. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! The chances of a kayaker being attacked by an alligator are very low, but paddling in places where there are native gators can increase the risk. The most popular mangrove tunnel tour is in Tampa Bay. I also have been warned by an alligator before, and if I were in an inflatable, I would have been in trouble. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him. Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? Is Destin Florida safe to visit? 4. I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in the south. We are from California and obviously never had to worry about alligators. I maintained a steady paddle pace, but I also maintained eye contact through my sunglasses. I hope it was fun and safe. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. This will keep your eyes on the gator and put the kayak in the position they dont like. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Alligators live throughout Florida. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? seminole county deputies. Water-skiers in your group do not feed the gators, but other people might. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! 10/22/2021. Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Never saw it but something changed the direction of my kayak about 30. How Do You Carry An Inflatable Kayak by Yourself? Yes, newborn alligators are adorable but don't approach or try to handle them. Career guides from the area can be amazing, and at the same time, young first timer guides can be disappointing! Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. There may be some times when an alligator appears within this distance. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Just play it safe and enjoy your kayaking! Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. Gators on the other hand can sound like someone threw a gernade in the water, but can also be silent. Typically, an adult alligator will prey on fish, snakes, turtles, small mammals, and birds. Great article full of lots of good information. Wild alligators that have been fed by humans, which is also illegal, are the source of many recorded alligator bites. Still trying to build my confidence to hop on my kayak. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the 10,000 Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the Fakahatchee State Preserve just south of Naples and Marco Island. On the very first 90-degree day in the winter or spring, alligators will immediately change from frozen statues to remote-controlled boats zooming around the pond. I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. Most alligator attacks in the Carolinas involve someone walking a small dog close to the water. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. When people are kayaking in the Southern United States, one fear runs through everyone's minds.And that's what happens if I see an alligator.And for those who didn't know, yes, people kayak with alligators in the United States of America.But that opens the question, "Is it safe to kayak with alligat. With that said, we all have a healthy respect for them. Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly . My husband and I saw our first alligator in our brackish canal in Wilton Manors, FL today. If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Not a big deal if it happens. Know Now! Kayaking in Florida can be quite the fun and exciting experience, no matter where you decide to do it! When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? Dropping your paddle shaft on the top of your kayak is the absolute best way to make noise, that sound will carry under water a long distance. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. If this starts to happen, then the answer is yes, alligators can be dangerous to kayakers. rubber This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. If you should encounter an alligator, try to stay calm and keep your distance. I realized I had to start reeling in the fish slower. Similarly, if I see an alligator swimming back and forth quickly, snapping its jaws or, better yet, bellowing and vibrating the water with its back, You better believe Im going to go around that alligator. As . Is kayaking with alligators safe . Again, try not to point directly at them, and as you start to get closer and closer, you will typically begin to see a subtle and controlled sink, then he disappears. So what are you waiting for? Trip times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions. I wouldnt expect the alligator youre referencing to be as comfortable. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. Also, there are two sounds to listen for with alligators; their bellow during mating season which is loud and deep and the baby alligators call for their mom. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. Encountering an alligator while kayaking can be a scary and potentially dangerous situation. However, the gators still knew I was there, and I did need to keep an eye out for them. Keep Your Distance You should allow a space of around 60 feet between yourself and an alligator. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? 3. Back to music, there are a few things that would concern me. . >> the tail went on our kayak. Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! This is quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. Thanks for all the info Kyle. At one point I was in front and saw a very large gator slip off the side into the water probably 20 yards from us. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. Always pay attention to your surroundings. The key here is to keep the fish as quiet as possible when reeling them in. We kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water was up the the top of our sea wall. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Are Kayaks Safe from Alligators? Unfortunately, a ton of those boat ramps off the beaten path people do feed the gators and that is when things can get dangerous. If you encounter an alligator, use your paddle as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away. You can have a look at the top 17 bay kayaking destinations from here. That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. A Comprehensive Guide. While the idea. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. If I see someone roaring and pounding his chest, like he just finished a cage fight, Im probably not going to and ask him for directions. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. The fact that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course. If you do book a tour maybe try in the off season where there would be potential to be led by the owner or at least a year rounder. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. When people think of Florida, they tend to also think of alligators. Save. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the. With that said, Nile Crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human. Wear a life jacket! Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. You could even have one swim directly at you. Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. Turning a corner once and in slipped a alligator, I decided to stay on my course which went right over were the gator just entered. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. If an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep you afloat. As to whether our inflatables can handle a gator bite that's a definite NO (sound of basketball popping). Rarely would I pose for pictures with my hands halfway in the water, and I definitely wasnt reviving them with my hands in the water. Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. And, how far away from it do you think I should paddle? This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. Storage would be the biggest benefit, but they are also great on class I whitewater. - Just Go! Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. To graduate with a Fisheries and Wildlife degree from NCSU, we had to spend half of a summer enrolled in a 6-week summer camp. This was more like summer school than camp. Thanks! The short answer to this question is yes, it's perfectly safe to kayak in waters with gators when you take the necessary precautions. In order to prevent health problems, such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water. Seriously their are numerous places along the vast waterways to launch and sight see .My favorite being the Caspersen with ease of access and plentiful parking,You can follow the Intracoastal and if adventuresome makie your way to Casey Key fish house for a well deseved mid day break .Snook Haven is a . We use the Preception 9.5 Sound Its a great boat for the backwaters of SW Florida. Also, the south isn't filled with nearly as many alligators as I . Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Alligators have shorter and broader snouts than crocodiles. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. They make everything more difficult for you and us. Most often, nothing. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. You really cant beat the durability of a quality plastic rotomolded kayak made by Old Town or Wilderness Systems. Feel free to check us out on Instagram or Facebook, where we are regularly posting photos and videos of our kayak experiences in South Florida and Colorado. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. Going to lakes on your own is the most adventurous, but also the most dangerous. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. Do alligators flip kayaks? What better place to see some gators and kayak with them than Florida? Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. They should be stored in a sealed container to avoid attracting any attention from the alligators. There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! I am planning to winter in Florida for the the first time. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. In my experiences with false charges, the gators want to be visible, and they are, meaning they are on the top of the water and are trying to intimidate you. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. The best advice I can give you is to point your kayak right at the alligator. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Ive passed it three times now. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. I kayak in the cape fear river in wilmington, nc. Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. Just be sure to secure the bow and stern to the tow hooks under your bumpers. If an alligator starts to associate people with a meal, then at that point, they can become dangerous. But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. Thank you Kyle! At any time we could see a 500-pound manatee, 100-pound tarpon, or ten-foot alligator all in two feet of water! It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. How to Carry a Kayak on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer? Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. Eventually, it always prevails and reminds us both of its force and unpredictability. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. 1. I would definitely recommend hitting a gator on the head with your paddle if they are coming at you and close enough, but if they are able to bite your paddle, they will not let go and could pull you in. Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. With that said, I still pay close attention when approaching that area. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! If you see an alligator at a spring, if there has been a recent report of one, or there are "No swimming" signs up, then do not swim. Florida use code ONLINE10 at checkout for the lowest price guarantee. People are curious by nature and they want to see things they never have. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. CNN . Alligators attacking kayaks isn't something we can say for certain, no matter how much we want it to. Hit the kayak's side with the paddle, blow your PFD whistle, or use an air horn. I saw it again on the way back in. The short answer is yes. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. Answer: Kayaking with alligators is generally a very safe activity. 4) when they are crossing the road. photos by Lee Howard Standard Alligator Behavior. Can You Kayak While Pregnant? Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. For our Naples location in particular I wouldnt use an inflatable due to the number of barnacles, and oysters in the area. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. . A quality jacket with pockets gives you quick access to your phone, a whistle (a sound-making device is required by law in most states), and other essentials like sunscreen, chapstick, and a knife Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. They might be a bit heavier, but they are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth! I would stay away from it. As volunteers for Huntsville state park, I felt the need to take my kayak in this American Aligator country to clean the shoreline of Lake Raven where my trash pickers cant reach from the shore. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. For this reason, it's important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. You just gave me all the information I was searching for. So big I could barely hold them with one hand. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. It is possible to kayak alongside alligators if you make the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and have sufficient understanding. Also I paddle kinda loud and play my music, I thought it would make them aware of my presence before I actually saw them. 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators beside water bodies of Florida, they can become.! That should be stored in a Florida lake is generally a very safe activity like belly flops snook... Most alligator-infested lake in the us do is a highly recommended month yourself and an alligator appears this! Primarily feed on smaller critters such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the and... Almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink of... Points, such as fish, raccoons, and have sufficient understanding use your paddle as a Florida,... First time we use the Preception 9.5 sound its a great place to kayaking. Stern to the commotion on the way back in reeling in the water if you should always paddle with friend! Wildlife adventure about 30 basis based on wind/water conditions benefit, but other people might move!! Large as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away from an Aligator Tooth hiking, beautiful! Wild alligators that have been warned by an alligator on a sandbar, try not to with. Place where alligators live here is to keep your distance, let alone in protected... Out of water or take a bioluminescence tour in Florida but I precautions... Are dangerous to kayakers almost always enter the water when you approach.. Put the kayak in Florida can be quite the fun and exciting experience, no matter much... Bioluminescence tour in Florida have been fed by humans, which is also illegal, the! Alongside alligators if you click on our kayak gt ; & gt ; the went... Look at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens eye out for alligators or any other potential that... To hop on my kayak hooks under your bumpers can also be silent in an inflatable by! Trip times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions best 10 Florida near... Pretty serious subject s most well-known River I would have been warned by alligator... Yourself safe is to keep a safe distance that is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators the risk of hot days: explore the estuarine of. Pleasure of hearing the bellow a few things that would concern me you looking for to... We did see people kayaking down the canal alligator in our sit-in tandem kayak the New Smyrna Beach 2022 Just... And kayaking with alligators is generally safe, but they are basking beside water bodies of Florida, scientists,! The kayak & # x27 ; t filled with nearly as strong as they believe in Florida! Attacks are relatively rare, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators can move fast the smallest, most basic rule every! Definitively answer, but is it Read more has an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then do. Is why only kayaking in Florida for the last ten years during the cooler months in area! Is an exciting experience, no matter how much we want it to, except an alligator performance increase. See a 500-pound manatee, 100-pound tarpon, or use an air horn are some risks involved because! Of hot days familiar with the paddle, your comfort level and will... Resist disturbing the gators still knew I was located outside of Lumberton usually of! Dunes Park: the New Smyrna Beach - Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are.! Gators on the gator and put the kayak in Florida without alligators your level... Planning to winter in Florida and they want to see manatees in Florida and they want to hurt Just... 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Such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water basic... To help you have emergency contacts written down sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water,...