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Sunset Paddle Among Manatees at Blue Spring State Park: A Magical Florida Kayaking Experience - Orange City

Sunset Paddle Among Manatees at Blue Spring State Park: A Magical Florida Kayaking Experience

Orange Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; gentle paddling on calm waters with minimal technical skill required.

Overview

Discover a magical kayak tour at Blue Spring State Park where you paddle alongside gentle manatees at sunset. Experience close wildlife encounters and peaceful paddling in Florida’s premier manatee habitat.

Orlando, Florida

Sunset Paddle Among Manatees

Magical Evening Paddle • Romantic Escape • Wildlife-Rich

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About This Adventure

Experience the magic of Blue Spring State Park on a captivating kayak tour, where you’ll paddle alongside gentle manatees and witness diverse wildlife. As the sun sets, enjoy the serene beauty of nature, from deer on the shore to fireflies lighting up the night. This unforgettable adventure connects you deeply with the wild.

Join us for a kayak tour through the active waterways of the Blue Spring State Park area!

Duration

2 Hours

About

Make close contact with these gentle and lovable creatures in one of the largest winter gathering sites for manatees in Florida. Hundreds of manatees make Blue Spring State Park their winter home during the colder months, and some stay around all year. Nature surrounds this area on every turn and we often witness alligators and turtles sun-bathing on the shore. A variety of birds, big and small, call this area their home, which makes spotting bold eagles, ospreys, red-shouldered hawks, and other wading birds a common occurrence. With a little luck, we will encounter the occasional river otter swimming in the river. This tour is perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Included

  • A professional, knowledgeable, medically trained, and certified tour guide
  • A commitment to make the tour as exciting, challenging, informative, and full as you'd like, and as is possible in a day
  • Trail snacks and water
  • Top-of-the-line kayak gear

What to Bring

  • Dress according to the weather (bring extra layers in cold weather)
  • Drinking Water
  • Sun protection (e.g., hats, sunscreen, long sleeves)

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Orientation

Arrive 30 minutes before your tour to get fitted for your kayak and lifejacket, and receive a safety briefing.

Wear Quick-Dry Clothing

Choose lightweight, quick-dry clothes and water shoes to stay comfortable throughout your paddle.

Watch for Wildlife Quietly

Move softly and keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing manatees and other animals.

Bring Sun Protection

Evening sun can still be strong; wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen before paddling.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Florida manatee
  • River otter

History

Blue Spring was designated a Florida State Park in 1972 and serves as a vital refuge for manatees during winter months.

Conservation

The park follows strict guidelines to minimize human impact on manatees, including limiting group sizes and maintaining quiet paddling practices.

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Adventure Hotspots in Orange City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Water Shoes

Essential

Provides traction and protection while launching and landing kayaks into the water.

summer specific

Quick-Dry Clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable by drying quickly after splashes or sweat.

summer specific

Hat and Sunglasses

Essential

Protects your eyes and face from sun exposure during the paddle.

summer specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is key during any outdoor adventure.