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Kayaking with Manatees at Silver Springs by Get Up and Go Kayaking - Gainesville

Kayaking with Manatees at Silver Springs by Get Up and Go Kayaking

Silver Springseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no previous experience necessary

Overview

Join a guided kayak tour at Silver Springs and encounter Florida’s gentle manatees in their natural habitat. This immersive adventure blends wildlife viewing with scenic paddling, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.

Kayak
Silver Springs, Florida

Silver Springs Manatee Season Tour (November - March)

Manatee Season Clear Kayak Tours | Guided Daily Tours | Starting At $62

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About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Silver Springs on a 1.5-hour guided kayak tour. Paddle through crystal-clear waters while keeping an eye out for manatees, monkeys, and diverse wildlife. With small group sizes and friendly guides, this adventure promises a unique and unforgettable exploration of nature’s wonders.

Silver Springs is a great trip for those looking to see clear water with possible Manatee, Monkey and other wildlife sightings all from our crystal CLEAR KAYAKS!


Rates Starting At:

Adults- $62 (Ages 12+)

Children - $45 (Ages 11 and under)

**Children of all ages are welcome to join our Silver Springs tours at the parent/legal guardian’s discretion. Children under 50 pounds must have their own life jacket and be worn for the duration of the tour. **

PLEASE NOTE - EACH CHILD (under 18) MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT.


Duration

1.5 - 2 Hours


Tour begins at:

  • Silver Springs: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
  • When entering the Silver Springs parking lot, please follow signs for “Paddling Adventure” that will lead you to the back left corner of the Silver Springs State Park parking lot.
  • Please check in with your Get Up And Go Kayaking tour guide 30 minutes prior to the start time of your tour in the grassy areas near the boat ramp. You will see them in a Get Up And Go Kayaking shirt standing near the clear kayaks.
  • All guests will be required to pay the $2 (per person) State Park entrance fee, and the $4 (per kayak) Kayak Launch fee. All fees can be made on site at the podium near the kayak launch.

About this trip

  • This 1.5 hour guided adventure includes a paddle through the crystalline waters of Silver Springs
  • Silver Springs is known for its beautiful natural springs, its wide array of Hollywood films that have taken place here, as well as manatee and wild monkey sightings!
  • While visiting Silver Springs, you may have the chance to see other wildlife such as manatees, monkeys, otters, gators, fish, turtles, birds and more!
  • All kayaks are tandem fitting up to 2 people
  • By booking, you acknowledge paddling alongside fellow reservationists.
  • We only bring out small group sizes (up to 10 people) on our tours, so be ready for an awesome, personalized and unforgettable experience with our friendly guides!

Weight Limit

The weight limit is 425 pounds per boat and no more than 250 pounds per seat. Each of our kayaks are doubles (tandem).


What's Included?

  • Use of crystal clear kayak and paddles
  • Certified and informative tour guide
  • Safety equipment
  • Dry bag to store any non-water resistant items you wish to bring with you. Please leave any valuables stored away in your car.

Important Information

  • Reservations are required for all Silver Springs tours
  • Our Silver Springs tour departs from Silver Springs, FL sharing a parking lot with Silver Springs State Park.
  • Alcohol is not permitted.
  • Plastic is not permitted on the waterway of Silver Springs. Please bring your own water in a reusable container.

DISCLAIMER: We cannot guarantee manatee sightings on each tour we take out, however your tour guide will do their best to go to the areas where the manatees are typically most active. Manatee season officially runs from November 15th - March 31st. We would like all our guests to be aware of this possibility so that there are no surprises once on the water!

Adventure Tips

Wear quick-drying clothing

Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes will keep you comfortable during the paddle.

Bring sun protection

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for sunny days on the water.

Arrive early

Getting to the launch point ahead of the tour ensures a relaxed start and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Respect wildlife distances

Maintain a safe distance from manatees and other animals to avoid disturbance.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great blue herons
  • American alligators

History

Silver Springs was once one of the first nationally recognized underwater parks, opening in the early 20th century, attracting explorers eager to view its unique springs and wildlife.

Conservation

The area actively promotes habitat preservation and responsible wildlife viewing to protect these ecosystems for future visitors.

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Adventure Hotspots in Gainesville

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Hat

Essential

Provides shade and sun protection during sunny paddling days.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Helps prevent sunburn during extended time on the water.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Quick-drying Clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable if splashed or sweating during paddling.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Polarized Sunglasses

Reduces water glare for clearer wildlife viewing.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific