St. Augustine’s coastline invites you in with the steady call of the Atlantic, but it’s the water’s edge around the historic lighthouse that offers a different kind of adventure. Get Up and Go Kayaking places you at the heart of this local favorite for outdoor activity: a kayak trip where the ocean’s currents dare you forward, and the coastline pushes back with its rugged rock formations and hidden coves. The lighthouse stands guard, a weathered guide for those navigating these dynamic waters.

This kayaking route covers roughly 5 miles of mixed salt marsh, open sea, and sheltered inlets. Expect a paddle time of around two to three hours depending on the tides and your pace, with a mild elevation change in the water currents rather than on land. The shoreline is a mosaic of flat salt marsh grasses, sandy beaches, and rocky outcrops, each with its own personality. The water itself can switch from playful ripples to steady resistance—never passive, always in conversation with your approach.

Launching from the harbor, your journey will weave around the iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse. Here, the waves seem to flirt with the sea walls, brushing but never breaking as they roll into the inlet. Along the way, keep an eye out for osprey nesting in towering pines and dolphins cutting through the swells, ensuring nature remains a fierce and effective co-pilot.

Preparation is key. Bring a life jacket that fits snugly, a waterproof bag for essentials, and dress in quick-drying layers suitable for the variable coastal breeze. Timing your trip around early morning or late afternoon not only avoids the higher afternoon winds but invites you into the golden glow of sunlight for both safety and unmatched scenic beauty.

Footwear is straightforward but important: river sandals or neoprene booties will keep you comfortable while launching and landing on rocky shores. Hydration can quickly become an issue as salt air draws moisture from your body; pack at least two liters of water, more if tackling warmer months. And don’t forget sunscreen—UV rays here are insistent.

As you paddle, resist the urge to power through. Instead, read the river’s mood, let the current flirt and sometimes challenge your route. This is a partnership with a natural force fiercely itself, one that requires respect and attentiveness.

For those ready to push their endurance, the adjacent salt marsh trails offer an extra layer of exploration, tracing the salt-tolerant mangroves and offering vantage points above the water. Kayaking here is more than a physical journey—it’s a conversation with the environment, where every ripple and gust communicates something vital about this coastal ecosystem. Whether you are a casual adventurer or someone who counts water miles, Get Up and Go Kayaking at the lighthouse is a local classic worth every paddle stroke.