Sweetheart Paddle: Sunset & Moonlight Kayak Dinner on the Santa Fe River

Sweetheart Paddle is a signature night paddle and riverside dinner experience on the Santa Fe River, launching near High Springs, Florida. This seven‑hour trip threads a slow channel past crystalline springs—including Poe and Ginnie—through stands of bald cypress and water tupelo. Guests board at a shuttle drop above Poe Springs Boat Ramp and drift downstream by sunset or moonlight, then finish at the Low & Slow Almost Bar & Grill for a fireside supper prepared by Super Tasty BBQ Company. The river here is spring‑fed; limestone and karst geology feed clear, chilly boils where groundwater from the Floridan aquifer surfaces. Poe Spring itself is a key landmark: a broad, clear boil framed by ferns and hardwoods. Paddling between dozen small spring outlets, visitors watch glassy reflections break into ripples as turtles and minnows scatter. Wading birds quarter the banks; after dark frogs and night insects call from the cypress knees. This trip is designed for adults and for people with little to no paddling experience. Single and tandem kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided, and guides run a short safety briefing before launch. The itinerary balances quiet float time with the sensory detail of an evening meal: linens, a take‑home flower vase, a signature mocktail lemonade, slow‑smoked beef or pork, river‑style potato salad and a gourmet cupcake. Expect to get a little wet—the organizers note that paddlers usually encounter splashes—and to see local wildlife including small alligators sunning on logs; give them space and your guides will keep the group safe. Why this stands out: the pairing of a nighttime paddle with a curated fireside dinner is rare on Florida rivers. The Sweetheart Paddle highlights the place‑based character of the Santa Fe—its springs, the limestone clarity, and a small‑town hospitality centered at 28800 NW 182nd Ave, High Springs, FL 32643. It’s intimate (groups up to 28) and sensory—salt-free air, cool bottom water, twinkling stars or a low, orange sunset. Practical notes: meet at the Low & Slow Almost Bar & Grill for check‑in, bring insect repellent, a headlamp, water, and a towel. This is an adults‑only adventure (18+); life jackets are provided, and Adventure Protection is available for cancellations. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a solo escape, this paddle delivers a quiet, river‑centered evening that feels both rural and carefully staged. Guides interpret the river ecology en route, pointing out karst holes, spring vents, and the invasive plants to avoid, while ensuring a relaxed pace that suits newcomers. Shuttle return is included; paddlers should plan for cool evening temperatures near the springs and dress in layers. Booking fills fast for weekend evenings—reserve early through the provided referral link to secure your preferred sunset or moonlight date.