THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the joy of paddling through St. Augustine’s tranquil Salt Run followed by a delicious boxed lunch. Perfect for all skill levels, Paddle Picnic & Play blends scenic water adventure with relaxed outdoor dining.
Discover the joy of paddling through St. Augustine’s tranquil Salt Run followed by a delicious boxed lunch. Perfect for all skill levels, Paddle Picnic & Play blends scenic water adventure with relaxed outdoor dining.
Book with Anastasia Watersports
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Anastasia Watersports · St. Augustine, Florida
Located in historic St. Augustine, Florida, the Paddle Picnic & Play experience invites adventurers of all ages and skill levels to explore the tranquil waters of Salt Run. This guided paddle event offers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and social fun, making it a standout outdoor activity in the vibrant coastal region. Salt Run is a peaceful waterway winding through the lush landscapes of Anastasia Island, providing an ideal setting to observe native flora and fauna while enjoying gentle waterways away from the hustle of city life.
The experience begins at Anastasia Watersports, located on Anastasia Pike Drive, where you receive your kayak or paddleboard, paddle, and personal flotation device. The expert guide leads a one-hour paddle through Salt Run, revealing unique sights such as mangrove tunnels and estuarine habitats that support wildlife like wading birds and dolphins. This area is especially noted for its calm waters and scenic tranquility, making it accessible for beginners as well as casual paddlers seeking a relaxing outdoor escape.
Complementing the paddle is a delicious boxed lunch included with the tour: a fresh wrap (with variety options), chips, a cookie, and a refreshing drink. This picnic component turns the adventure into a social outing, ideal for friends, families, or couples looking to spend quality time together immersed in nature. With a maximum group size of 15, the event maintains an intimate feel, allowing everyone to enjoy a personalized and friendly experience.
St. Augustine itself boasts the title of the oldest European-established settlement in the continental United States, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your outdoor adventures. After your paddle, consider exploring nearby local landmarks or relaxing at one of the charming coastal eateries that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The Paddle Picnic & Play experience is particularly notable because it balances accessibility and nature in a way few local offerings do — requiring no prior paddling expertise while immersing guests in one of Florida’s serene estuarine ecosystems. Whether you’re an outdoor novice or a seasoned nature lover, this tour offers a rejuvenating break and a snapshot of the coastal environment that is both gentle on the body and vivid for the mind.
For visitors based in St. Augustine, this is an essential activity to include in your itinerary. From the ease of the paddle to the thoughtful inclusion of lunch, everything is designed to maximize enjoyment and minimize stress. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Paddle Picnic & Play at Salt Run beckons with open waters and good company.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for participants with basic physical fitness; no prior paddling experience required.
No, this guided paddle is suitable for all skill levels, including complete beginners.
Minor rain usually doesn’t cancel the event, but severe weather may require rescheduling. Check with Anastasia Watersports for updates.
Yes, personal flotation devices are provided and mandatory for safety.
While there is no official age limit listed, participants should be able to safely paddle and follow instructions; check with the operator for specific age restrictions.
The lunch includes a fresh wrap (varieties available), chips, a cookie, and a drink.
No, all paddle equipment including kayak or paddleboard, paddle, and PFD are provided.
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European-founded settlement in the continental U.S., established in 1565.
Anastasia Watersports encourages the use of reef-safe products and practices catch-and-release with local wildlife to preserve Salt Run’s natural balance.
Anastasia Watersports operates professional paddlecraft rentals and guided excursions focused on Salt Run and the waters around Anastasia State Park. The business offers single and double kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUP) for one-, two-, and three-hour rentals, with half-day and full-day beach rental options available through the Island Beach Shop and Grill. Guided experiences include wildlife-focused Salt Run tours led by knowledgeable guides, Dawn on the Dunes sunrise paddles, Paint & Paddle art sessions that combine a short guided paddle with canvas painting, and family-oriented events such as Paddle, Picnic, and Play. Equipment options list 1-hour, 2-hour, and 3-hour canoe and kayak rentals alongside single and double kayak choices to match groups of every size. Safety, accessibility, and low-impact recreation are emphasized. Comfortable seating, beginner-friendly instruction, life jackets, and pre-launch briefings make trips approachable for first-time paddlers and families. The Sea Turtle pavilion provides an outdoor event space for up to 150 guests with picnic tables, grills, and direct beach access for celebrations and group gatherings. Anastasia Watersports supports responsible enjoyment of local ecosystems by encouraging sunscreen use, wildlife respect, and guided education about the area’s plants and animals. For visitors seeking dependable rentals, guided wildlife viewing, creative outdoor events, or a relaxed day on Salt Run, Anastasia Watersports provides a broad selection of experiences tailored to different skill levels and group needs.
Book with Anastasia Watersports