Otter Paddle Orlando invites outdoor adventurers to glide through serene Florida springs and waterways. From luminous night paddles to waterfall hikes, discover what makes Merritt Island a standout paddle destination.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels including beginners and families; some walking required on waterfall hike tours.
Wildlife
History
The springs of Merritt Island have long been important to indigenous peoples and early settlers for their clear water and abundant resources.
Conservation
Otter Paddle Orlando promotes low-impact paddling that respects fragile habitats, encouraging guests to leave no trace while enjoying these pristine waters.
Otter Paddle Orlando
Otter Paddle Orlando invites outdoor adventurers to glide through serene Florida springs and waterways. From luminous night paddles to waterfall hikes, discover what makes Merritt Island a standout paddle destination.
Otter Paddle Orlando operates from Merritt Island, Florida, offering guided paddleboarding and kayaking experiences across Central Florida waterways. The company runs tours at Silver Springs, Rainbow Springs, Winter Park’s Chain of Lakes, Lake Conway, the Silver River, and the Banana River, plus unique evening experiences like bioluminescence and Neon Nights glow paddles.
Tours include family-friendly options, wildlife-focused excursions such as dolphin and manatee paddles, and longer shuttle runs that remove the need to turn back. Silver Springs adventures feature certified guides and a stated commitment to conservation, with opportunities to see manatees and other wildlife. Rainbow Springs tours navigate clear springs and Indian Creek for swimming, cave exploration, and abundant wildlife viewing.
Otter Paddle Orlando also offers flexible day rentals of Crew & Axel inflatable paddleboards with convenient pick-up and drop-off to explore at one’s own pace. Guides provide safety instruction, route briefing, and local knowledge for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The business emphasizes accessible experiences for families and beginners while delivering specialized night tours to view bioluminescence in the Banana River and LED-lit Neon Nights paddles in Merritt Island. Shore logistics such as shuttles are provided on select runs to simplify outings.
By focusing on natural settings, guided safety, and a variety of trip lengths and times, Otter Paddle Orlando presents a range of paddleboarding and kayaking options for visitors and residents seeking wildlife encounters and scenic paddles in Central Florida. Reservation options, seasonal scheduling, and accessibility details are available when booking specific tours online directly through the operator.
Location
Merritt Island, FL
Gateway to nearby springs and rivers
Tours Offered
11 Trips
From Silver Springs to bioluminescence
Family Friendly
All Ages
Many tours welcome families
Certified Guides
Yes
Guides on select tours like Silver Springs
Book guided tours, neon glow paddles, bioluminescence nights, or flexible day rentals for a memorable Florida waterways experience.
Use insect repellent
Mosquitoes can be heavy near rest areas and waterways—apply repellent before launching and after stops.
Bring a waterproof camera case
Protect your gear while capturing wildlife and waterfall moments along the paddling routes.
Wear quick-dry, sun-protective clothing
Light layers and sun protection are crucial under Florida’s intense sun, especially on exposed water.
Book early for night tours
Specialty adventures like the Bioluminescence and Neon Nights Glow Paddle Adventures fill quickly—reserve your spot well ahead.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects common near Florida waterways.
summer
Waterproof phone case
Allows you to safely take photos and keep essentials dry while paddling.
Water shoes or sandals
Comfortable footwear for launch areas and waterfall hike sections.
spring|summer|fall
Sun hat and UV-blocking clothing
Provides vital sun protection during extended exposure on open water.
summer