Kayaking Tips Ensuring You Have the Best Experience
Few experiences rival the serenity of embarking on a kayaking adventure amidst the picturesque Florida Keys. As you glide along the tranquil, mirror-like waters, the chaos of modern daily life fades into the background. You’ll have the delightful company of enchanting marine creatures, such as dolphins, stingrays, and manatees. In addition, the Keys are a haven for numerous bird species, ensuring companionship from above. Doesn’t it sound like an incredible watersports adventure? Your inaugural kayaking journey in Key Largo, Florida, promises to be an unforgettable experience! Before securing your kayak rental, it’s advisable to acquaint yourself with the essential aspects of kayaking in this unique region.
Make the Most of Key Largo Sites
Dusenbury Creek stands out as one of this region’s most sought-after kayaking destinations. Kayakers typically set off from Florida Bay Outfitters, a hub that offers kayak rentals and guided eco-tours, should you need assistance navigating the area. They also provide the option to launch your kayak for a nominal fee. On your way to the charming mangrove tunnel ideal for kayaking, you might encounter light boat traffic. It’s advisable to steer clear of motorboats as much as possible. However, you’ll discover that the experience is worth it once you successfully distance yourself from them.
Dusenberry Creek boasts one of the finest canopied mangrove creeks in the vicinity. You’ll also find additional mangrove tunnels nearby to explore. The local wildlife is abundant, both in and out of the water. Manatees are frequently spotted; if you’re fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of bottlenose dolphins. Given that this is a lengthy journey, it’s essential to plan accordingly if you wish to allocate enough time for exploration.
We recommend visiting John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during your stay in Key Largo. Here, you can paddle on crystal-clear, tranquil waters while passing through more mangrove tunnels and enjoying reef views. Additionally, Everglades National Park is conveniently nearby, offering a serene kayaking experience away from crowds and motorized boats. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature and observe various native Florida wildlife species.
Wear a Vest
“No matter where you choose to go kayaking, wearing a life-saving vest or jacket is crucial. While many areas in Key Largo offer serene waters, occasional motorboat activity can generate unexpected waves that challenge even the most skilled kayakers. A buoyancy device can often be the decisive factor between life and death, so why take unnecessary risks during your trip to The Keys? Some vests are designed for physical activities like kayaking and are more suitable for wearing while on the water. Rental facilities frequently provide these jackets; some may even require their use.
Understand the Tides and Currents
Although tidal changes are minimal in the Florida Keys, typically only fluctuating about a foot, the waters are relatively shallow. Failing to be cautious during the shift from low to high tide can result in becoming stranded in the muddy shallows of a bay. We relied on an online tidal chart to mitigate this risk and strategically planned our crossings of shallow areas during high tide.
For the most part, the currents in the Keys are inconsequential, except for a few notable exceptions, so it’s crucial to pay attention. As the tides shift, water flows between the islands, forming currents in the channels that connect the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. To minimize the impact of these currents, it’s essential to time any significant open-water crossings between islands to coincide with the slack tide, which marks the transition between high and low tide when the water changes direction. Exercise extra caution when crossing the notably deep Bahia Honda channel.
Rest in the Bungalows
After a day of kayaking, unwinding at the luxurious all-inclusive Florida Keys Bungalows in Key Largo provides vacationers with a sense of being on cloud nine. Our intimate tropical retreat is the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. Travel + Leisure has honored Bungalows Key Largo by including it in their list of the “16 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the USA,” making it an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious all-inclusive experience without needing a passport! Your days will be filled with boundless adventures on and off the pristine protected waters, revitalizing spa experiences, unspoiled natural beauty, and a laid-back local atmosphere. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled retreat surrounded by sand, sea and tropical views; where exotic flowers, tranquil beauty, and the bracing sea breeze create an atmosphere that beckons you to stay forever.
To book your dream stay and kayaking adventure, call 866-801-0195 or book online today!