Development is creeping up on Spruce Creek and Strickland Bay, but enough has been preserved — for now — to enjoy an awesome day of kayaking. (Watercolor by Stewart Jones)
Kayak, Canoe, Paddle Trails
Getting way away: Dry Tortugas National Park
This isolated cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West is accessible only by boat or seaplane. But treasures await you, especially if you camp over for a few nights. Yes, you can camp here! Snorkeling and kayaking, too!
Boca Raton urban Paddle: Backyards of the 1%
Paddling South Florida’s canals is not always a wonder of nature, so explore the tropical back yards of the rich and famous! A network of public canals allows the “rest of us” to get an eyeful of elegantly manicured properties of Boca Raton’s exclusive Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club.
Peace River: Florida canoe trip is an easy adventure
There are prettier rivers and wilder rivers, but the Peace River offers something you can’t find elsewhere: A place to paddle and camp through an undeveloped forest filled with wildlife within an easy drive of 7 million South Florida residents.
Camping near Tampa Bay: Fort Desoto
This public park is spread over 900 acres on five interconnected islands with seven miles of waterfront, including three miles of award-winning beaches .Nearly half of the 233 campsites in the campground are waterfront, allowing you to launch your kayak or canoe from your site.
Kayak fishing: Where few have gone before
With the invention of the rotomolded hull, kayaking has taken off in Florida and across the country over the past decade. Give an angler a new way to float, and he’ll go fishing. Here’s a guide to kayak fishing basics and a checklist of what you need to be successful.
