Blue Spring State Park Kayak Rental: Paddle the St. Johns Manatee Refuge (2-Hour)
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling endurance for 3–5 miles is helpful
Overview
Float the warm run of Blue Spring State Park and watch manatees, wading birds, and lazy alligators move through a protected No Wake Zone. This two-hour kayak rental is simple to book and rich in wildlife, ideal for photographers, birders, and first-time paddlers.
Blue Spring State Park Kayak Rental: Paddle the St. Johns Manatee Refuge (2-Hour)
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You push off from a small, sandy beach and the river accepts you with the calm, measured pull of the St. Johns. The run from Blue Spring State Park is glassy most mornings; fingers of sunlight slip under the cypress canopy and the current, slow and deliberate, nudges the kayak upriver. This is not a race — the water asks you to slow, look, and let wildlife decide whether it shows itself.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Launch Shoes
Wear water shoes or sandals—the launch is a sandy beach and your feet will get wet during entry and exit.
Early Start
Arrive at first light for glassy water and the best chance to see manatees and quiet bird activity.
Manatee Distance
Keep at least 50 feet from manatees, remain quiet and stop paddling if one approaches to avoid disturbing them.
Hydration & Shade
Bring a refillable water bottle and sun protection; the run offers limited shade in stretches and Florida sun is intense.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian manatee
- Great blue heron and other wading birds
History
Blue Spring sits above a limestone spring tied to the Floridan aquifer; the park has been protected as a manatee refuge and state park for decades.
Conservation
The No Wake Zone and manatee-distance rules limit shoreline erosion and stress on wildlife—pack out trash and use reef-safe sunscreen.
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Adventure Hotspots in DeBary, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial in Florida heat and there are no refill stations on the water.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet during the sandy launch and when exiting into shallow water.
all specific
Wide-brim hat & sunscreen
Sun protection is necessary as much of the paddle is exposed.
summer specific
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, ID, and snacks dry during waves or an accidental capsize.
all specific