Kayak through tranquil waters at Blue Springs State Park, home to Florida’s wintering manatees. Perfect for beginners, this guided tour offers a close-up wildlife experience just outside Orlando.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; no prior paddling experience needed.
Wildlife
History
Blue Springs was designated as a Florida State Park in 1987, known for its clear water and rich aquatic ecosystem.
Conservation
The park actively participates in habitat preservation and wildlife protection, ensuring sustainable experiences for visitors and animals alike.
Kayaking Florida
Kayak through tranquil waters at Blue Springs State Park, home to Florida’s wintering manatees. Perfect for beginners, this guided tour offers a close-up wildlife experience just outside Orlando.
Kayaking Florida operates kayak rentals and guided tours based at Silver Springs State Park in Silver Springs, Florida, and offers seasonal manatee tours at Blue Springs State Park. The company provides a mix of self-guided rentals and guided experiences, including clear kayak tours, family-friendly wildlife excursions, and longer downstream drift trips with shuttle service.
Trips include 2-hour clear kayak tours that highlight underwater life and potential manatee sightings, 2-hour self-guided rentals with treasure maps and lessons, 4-hour full-river guided adventures along a scenic 5-mile downstream route, and 4-hour self-guided downstream drift rentals that include a shuttle. Guides and naturalists lead wildlife-focused tours that emphasize safe viewing practices and local history.
Equipment is described as high-quality with options for stable tandem kayaks and transparent clear kayaks suited for underwater viewing. Instruction and personalized lessons are available for beginners and families. Blue Springs manatee tours operate from a location approximately 33 miles from downtown Orlando and offer morning tours for optimal wildlife viewing during manatee season.
Kayaking Florida is featured on The Adventure Collective, and its offerings focus on safe, educational, and family-appropriate paddling experiences framed around Florida’s clear springs, abundant wildlife, and accessible river routes.
Tours Offered
5 Tours
Guided and self-guided options
Trip Durations
2–4 hours
Short and full-day options
Family Friendly
All Ages
Suitable for families and beginners
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Recognized outdoor experience
Reserve clear kayak tours, rentals, or guided full-river adventures — limited daily capacity.
Best time to see manatees
Visit during the cold months from December to March when manatees gather in the warm spring waters.
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as you'll be paddling in open areas under direct sunlight.
Use waterproof gear
Ensure your camera and valuables are in waterproof containers to capture wildlife moments.
Arrive early
Morning tours are popular; arriving early increases your chances of optimal wildlife sightings.
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you comfortable in case of unexpected splash or weather changes.
winter
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Protects against UV rays during outdoor water activity.
spring;summer;fall;winter
Waterproof Camera or Smartphone Case
Allows you to capture wildlife moments without worry of water damage.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your paddling adventure.