Mount Dora has a lively downtown and a well-preserved historic district on a pretty lake. It’s a walkable small town with good dining and shopping. We love the great kayaking and biking nearby.
Kayak, Canoe, Paddle Trails
Best kayaking in Florida
Informative articles about the best Florida paddle trails for kayaks, canoes and paddle boards from coastal marshes to scenic rivers and spring runs. These are our favorites:
- Our favorite kayak and paddle trails
- 6 best towns for kayaking in Florida
- The Chaz
- Best tubing in Florida
- Best kayaking near Orlando and Central Florida
- 10 best kayaking spots in South Florida
- 12 awesome outings for kayaking in the Florida Keys
- 5 favorite places to paddleboard in Tampa Bay area
- 3 kayak trails in Southwest Florida you’ll love
Browse our full catalog of kayaking stories below…
Braden River: Kayak from Jiggs Landing to Linger Lodge for Old Florida feel
Kayaking the Braden River, with time at Jiggs Landing and Linger Lodge in Bradenton, is a delightful trip back into Old Florida along the Gulf Coast. Both outposts date to the 1940s and the scenic river that connects them preserves much of its natural beauty.
Jupiter: Discover unspoiled nature near urban centers
With expansive state parks and a national wildlife refuge plus several attractive county and city facilities, Jupiter offers many excellent places to kayak, hike, bike and learn about native wildlife. Within a two hour drive of 6 million people in South Florida, it’s a good getaway for lovers of the outdoors .
Snorkeling, kayaking, camping at Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Snorkel, dive or ride a glass-bottom boat to view coral reefs at what many consider Florida’s #1 state park. There’s kayaking and camping, too!
Cabbage Key: Old Florida island for kayaking, history, atmosphere
Cabbage Key is reachable only by boat. It’s popular as a lunch-cruise destination. But stay overnight in the inn or cabins to discover its true charms. On our visit, we also found it’s a great base for exploring by kayak.
O’Leno State Park: Vanishing river, scenic trails & spacious, wooded campground
One of Florida’s original state parks, O’Leno State Park is a wonderland of forest trails and mysterious lakes. The densely wooded campground erases all reminders of civilization, a serene haven not far from busy Interstate 75.
Kayaking the Indian River Lagoon: Island hopping to picnic, even camp
Folks who dream of picnicking or even camping on their own little island can do just that quite easily by kayaking the Indian River Lagoon. There are dozens of spoil islands in the lagoon that make great paddling destinations.
Jupiter Lighthouse: Food, fun and five ways to enjoy historic site
Jupiter Lighthouse offers a spectacular view, an interesting history, plus great spots nearby to kayak, hike or relax for a waterfront lunch.
Imperial River: Delightful kayak trail through old Bonita Springs
The kayak trail through old Bonita Springs on the Imperial River is worth discovering for its scenery. If you’re lucky, you may see manatees.
Bulow Plantation Ruins: 5 minutes off I-95 for romantic ruins, picnic & walk
When driving I-95, you can travel five minutes off the highway and find romantic ruins, have a picnic and a walk through the woods in this Flagler County state park. In minutes, you feel like you’re in another world.