Kayaking near Orlando: the spring rivers are the reason to go

The best places to paddle

Central Florida is one of the best paddling regions in the country, mainly because of its springs. Spring-fed rivers are clear, cool and slow, and full of wildlife. Here are the main options, starting with the best.

• Wekiwa River. The classic. Launch from inside Wekiwa Springs State Park, about 30 minutes north of downtown, and paddle through clear water past turtles, herons and the occasional otter. Easy for beginners.
• Rock Springs Run. A narrower, wilder stream that joins the Wekiwa. It is better for confident paddlers who want a half-day trip with few people.
• Winter Park Chain of Lakes. Calm lakes linked by narrow canals, past large lakefront homes. Good for sunset and close to the city.
• Shingle Creek. A cypress-lined creek near Kissimmee, close to the attractions area, with quiet, shaded water.
• Econlockhatchee River. East of the city, a dark-water river with sandy banks and twisting bends. Best for experienced paddlers when the water level is good.

Blue Spring State Park is another option, but only outside manatee season. Paddling in its spring run is closed during the winter months while manatees shelter there.

Rent, tour or bring your own

Most visitors rent. Concessions inside the state parks rent canoes and kayaks by the hour or half day, and outfitters near the major rivers rent boats and run shuttles so you can paddle one way. Rentals often sell out on weekends, so arrive early.

Stand-up paddleboards are also available at many rental spots. They are fun on calm lakes but harder on rivers with current, low branches and fallen trees, so most first-timers are happier in a sit-on-top kayak or a canoe. Canoes are a good pick for two adults with a small child in the middle.

Guided tours cost more but are worth it for first-timers. Guides know where the wildlife is, handle the logistics and keep you safe. Some companies offer clear-bottom kayak tours, which let you look straight down into the spring water. Sunset tours on the city lakes are popular too.

When to go

Morning is best year-round. The water is calm, the wildlife is active and the heat is easier. From about May through September, storms with lightning build most afternoons. Plan to be off the water by early afternoon.

Fall, winter and spring are the most comfortable seasons. Spring waters stay around 72 degrees all year, so the rivers feel cool in summer and mild in winter. Weekends are crowded on the popular rivers, and weekdays are noticeably quieter.

How to plan a paddle

1. Pick a route that suits your experience and the time you have, usually two to four hours.
2. Check the weather, the park's capacity updates and the rental hours the night before.
3. Arrive early, rent your boat and get a map of the route.
4. Paddle upstream first when you can, so the return trip is easier.
5. Be back before the afternoon storms start, and rinse off with fresh water at the end.

Safety and wildlife

Alligators live in almost every body of fresh water in Florida. They are usually shy and move away from boats. Keep your distance, never feed them, keep hands and feet in the boat near the banks, and do not paddle at dusk in areas with many gators. Leave pets at home.

• Wear a life jacket. Rentals include them. Use them.
• Bring water and sun protection. Even shaded rivers have open stretches.
• Use a dry bag for phones and keys.
• Watch for low branches and fallen logs on narrow streams.
• Respect the springs. Do not stand on the plants or the spring vents, which damages them.

An easier option

If paddling feels like too much effort, you can see the same lakes and canals from the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour without lifting a paddle. For everyone else, a morning on the Wekiwa River is one of the most memorable and least expensive things to do near Orlando, and it is the kind of day most visitors never discover.