Silver Springs Kayaking Tours
Silver Springs Kayaking & Paddleboarding Tours
Paddle the clear waters of Silver Springs State Park with an experienced local guide who knows where to look for wildlife, how to help first-time paddlers and how to keep the tour relaxed and enjoyable.
At AWA Kayak Tours, my guided Silver Springs kayaking and paddleboarding tours are designed for beginners, couples, families and anyone who wants more from their visit than simply renting a kayak and heading out alone. Each tour is limited to six kayaks, giving me time to help every guest, answer questions and point out the wildlife and history that can be easy to miss without a guide.
Tours are available for guests ages six and older and generally last between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Silver Springs Kayaking Tour at a Glance
Tour length: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
Price: $70 Single Kayaks (Seats One) – $140 Tandem Kayaks (Seats Two)
Minimum age: 6 years old
Group size: Limited to six kayaks
Kayak options: Single and tandem sit-on-top kayaks
Meeting location: Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs, FL 34488
Experience level: Beginner-friendly; no previous kayaking experience required
Single-kayak weight limit: 250 pounds
Tandem-kayak weight limit: 500 pounds
Pets: Pets are not permitted on the tour
Your kayak, paddle, personal flotation device, safety whistle and a small dry bag are provided. Before launching, I will go over basic paddling instructions, steering and important safety information.
Park admission, parking or launch charges are separate from the AWA tour price unless specifically stated during booking. These fees are controlled by Silver Springs State Park and may change.
Paddleboarding at Silver Springs
AWA Kayak Tours also offers paddleboarding options for guests who would rather experience Silver Springs from a stand-up paddleboard. Paddleboarding gives you a different view of the clear water and surrounding wildlife while still enjoying the benefits of a small, guided tour.
Whether you have paddleboard experience or are trying it for the first time, Aaron can provide basic instruction before getting on the water. Availability may vary by tour, so contact AWA Kayak Tours before booking if you would like to request a paddleboard.
What You’ll Experience While Kayaking Silver Springs
Silver Springs kayaking gives you a close view of one of Florida’s best-known spring-fed waterways. The water is always clear to see fish, vegetation, submerged logs and other details beneath your kayak. Along the shoreline, thick trees and natural habitat provide cover for birds, turtles, monkeys and other wildlife.
Before the tour begins, I provide a safety briefing and basic paddling instruction. First-time kayakers will learn how to hold the paddle, move forward, turn and control the kayak. We will not rush onto the water until everyone feels ready.
Once we launch, I set a comfortable pace based on the group, weather and water conditions. This is not a race or a strenuous workout. The goal is to enjoy the surroundings, look for wildlife and learn more about the Silver River.
The exact route can vary depending on wildlife activity, park conditions and the pace of the group. As we paddle, I will point out animals, plants and historical features that visitors often pass without noticing. Silver Springs has a long history as a Florida attraction, and the river still contains reminders of the area’s past.
You will have time to look around, take photographs and enjoy quieter stretches of the river. I also take photographs during the tour so you can stay focused on paddling instead of worrying about keeping your phone out over the water. Guests regularly mention the tour photographs as one of the things they appreciate about paddling with AWA.
Because this is a natural environment, every tour is different. Water clarity, wildlife activity and weather can change throughout the year. I cannot guarantee a specific animal sighting, but I will use my experience on these waters to give the group the best possible opportunity to see what is active that day.
Wildlife You May See at Silver Springs
Silver Springs State Park protects thousands of acres of river, forest and other natural habitat. The river supports alligators, turtles, manatees, fish and many species of aquatic and woodland birds.
Monkeys
Wild rhesus macaques live in areas along the Silver River. They were introduced to the area decades ago and have since spread through portions of the surrounding river system.
The monkeys may be seen in trees, along the shoreline or moving through the vegetation. Some days they are active and easy to spot. Other days they remain deeper in the woods. They are wild animals, and the group will observe them from the water without approaching, feeding or disturbing them.
Manatees
Manatees may also travel through the Silver River. They can be present throughout the year, but cooler weather can improve the chance of seeing them as they seek out Florida’s warmer spring-fed waters. Wildlife activity still depends on the conditions that day, so a manatee sighting cannot be promised.
If we encounter a manatee, we follow passive-observation practices. We do not chase, touch, surround or block the animal. If a manatee changes its behavior because of our presence, we give it more space.
Turtles and Birds
Turtles are among the animals most commonly seen around the river. You may spot them swimming beneath the kayak or resting on logs along the shoreline. The clear water can also provide views of fish and other aquatic life below the surface.
Silver Springs is home to many species of birds, including wading birds, woodland birds and birds of prey. Depending on the day, you may see herons, egrets, ibis, limpkins, wood ducks or other native birds around the water and trees.
Alligators and Other Wildlife
Alligators are part of Florida’s natural freshwater environment and may occasionally be seen resting along the bank or swimming in the river. We maintain a respectful distance and never approach or interfere with them.
Other possible sightings include otters, deer and additional wildlife moving through the park. None of these animals are guaranteed, but the variety of habitat makes every Silver Springs kayak tour different.
What Is Included in Your Guided Tour
Your Silver Springs kayaking tour includes the main equipment needed to get on the water safely:
- A single or two person tandem sit-on-top kayak
- Kayak paddle
- Personal flotation device
- Safety whistle
- Small dry bag for items such as keys or a phone
- Basic paddling and safety instruction
- A knowledgeable guide
- Photographs taken during the tour
Before launching, I will help adjust your equipment and explain how to control the kayak. Beginners receive the same support as experienced paddlers, and I remain nearby throughout the tour.
Guests should still bring their own drinking water, sun protection and any personal items they may need. The provided dry bags are meant for smaller belongings and should not be treated as guaranteed protection for expensive electronics.
Is This Silver Springs Tour Right for You?
This guided Silver Springs kayak tour is a good fit for:
- First-time kayakers
- Couples
- Families with children ages six and older
- Small groups
- Wildlife photographers
- Florida residents looking for a day trip
- Visitors staying near Ocala, Orlando or Central Florida
You do not need previous kayaking experience. I provide instructions before the tour and keep the pace manageable for beginners.
Guests should be able to sit in a kayak for up to two hours, hold and use a paddle and follow basic safety directions. There may be current, wind or changing weather conditions, so some physical paddling is required.
Single kayaks have a listed capacity of 250 pounds, while tandem kayaks have a listed combined capacity of 500 pounds. Please call before booking when you have questions about kayak selection, mobility, accessibility or whether the tour is appropriate for someone in your group.
What to Bring and Wear
Wear clothing that is comfortable and allowed to get wet. Even when the kayak remains stable, water can drip from the paddle or splash into the seating area.
Recommended clothing includes:
- Swimsuit, quick-drying shorts or other lightweight clothing
- Water shoes, sandals or secure flip-flops
- Hat or visor
- Polarized sunglasses
- Retaining strap for glasses or sunglasses
- Light jacket or extra layer during cooler weather
Bring the following items:
- Drinking water
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Waterproof phone case or camera
- Towel
- Dry clothes for after the tour
- Any necessary personal medication
- Gratuity for your guide, when you feel it is appropriate
Avoid bringing items you do not need on the water. Car keys, wallets and phones should be secured inside a dry bag or waterproof case.
Swimming is not permitted at Silver Springs State Park, so guests should remain in their kayaks unless instructed otherwise at the launch area.
Meeting at Silver Springs State Park
The tour meets at:
Silver Springs State Park
5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Silver Springs, FL 34488
This is the park’s main entrance on State Road 40, east of Ocala. The park also has a separate camping entrance, so make sure your GPS is taking you to the address listed above.
Your booking confirmation will provide the most current meeting instructions. Review those instructions before leaving and allow extra time for traffic, parking, admission and finding the kayak launch.
I recommend planning to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled launch time. Arriving at the entrance at the exact tour time may cause you to miss the safety briefing or launch.
Park admission and any applicable launch charges are separate from your AWA reservation unless the booking page states otherwise.
The park is generally open from 8 a.m. until sunset, but access, trails or facilities may be affected by weather, capacity, maintenance or special events.
Best Time for Silver Springs Kayaking
Silver Springs can be paddled throughout the year, and each season offers a different experience.
Cooler Months
Late fall and winter often provide comfortable paddling temperatures and a better chance of seeing manatees using Florida’s spring-fed waterways for warmer water. Cold fronts can increase manatee activity, although sightings are never guaranteed.
Cooler mornings may require a light jacket or clothing that can be layered. Tours may be rescheduled when conditions become unsafe, including strong winds or unusually cold temperatures.
Spring
Spring can bring mild temperatures, active wildlife and comfortable conditions on the river. Trees and plants around the shoreline are active, and mornings are often a good choice for guests who prefer cooler air.
Summer
Summer tours can be warm and humid. Earlier departures generally provide cooler conditions and may help guests avoid the strongest afternoon heat. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat and lightweight clothing.
Florida thunderstorms can develop quickly during summer. Weather conditions are monitored, and tours may be adjusted or rescheduled when needed for safety.
Mornings Versus Later Tours
Wildlife is often more active during quieter parts of the day, which can make morning tours a strong choice. Earlier tours may also have cooler temperatures and less boat traffic.
However, there is no single time that guarantees better water clarity or wildlife sightings. The best tour time is one that fits your schedule and provides safe weather conditions.
Why Paddle Silver Springs With AWA Kayak Tours
AWA stands for Adventures With Aaron. I grew up in Central Florida and have spent years guiding guests through the region’s rivers, springs and wildlife habitats.
I am CPR and First-Aid certified, and every trip begins with a safety briefing and paddling instruction.
My Silver Springs tours are capped at six kayaks. Keeping the group small allows me to stay close to beginners, answer questions and give guests a more personal experience than they may receive in a large tour group.
Photography is also an important part of my tours. I take pictures while we paddle and share them with guests after the trip. This lets you remain present during the experience without needing to keep your phone out the entire time.
Most importantly, I do not treat Silver Springs as a simple route that needs to be completed. I pay attention to the pace of the group, look for wildlife and take time to explain what we are seeing. Guest reviews regularly mention patient instruction, wildlife knowledge, photographs and help for nervous first-time paddlers.
Guided Tour or Kayak Rental?
Silver Springs State Park offers kayak rentals for guests who prefer to paddle independently. A rental may be a good choice for experienced Silver Springs kayakers who know the river, are comfortable navigating on their own and do not need instruction or help identifying wildlife.
AWA provides guided tours rather than self-guided kayak rentals.
A guided tour is often the better choice when:
- It is your first time kayaking
- You are unfamiliar with Silver Springs
- You are bringing children
- Someone in the group is nervous on the water
- You want help finding wildlife
- You are interested in the area’s history and ecosystem
- You do not want to manage the route alone
- You want photographs taken during the trip
Renting gives you more independence, but it also means choosing your route, watching the time, finding wildlife and managing equipment without a guide.
With AWA, the equipment, instruction and guide are part of the experience. I can adjust the pace, help with steering and point out animals that may otherwise blend into the shoreline.
Guests specifically looking for an unguided rental should contact the official Silver Springs State Park concessionaire for current rental options, pricing and availability.
Silver Springs Kayaking Questions
Do I need kayaking experience?
No. This Silver Springs kayaking tour is beginner-friendly. Before we launch, I explain how to hold the paddle, move the kayak, turn and stop. I also remain available to help throughout the tour.
How long is the Silver Springs kayak tour?
Tours generally last between 1.5 and 2 hours. The exact time can vary slightly based on group pace, water conditions, weather and wildlife activity.
How old do children need to be?
Children must be at least six years old. Children between six and ten are generally more comfortable riding with a parent in a tandem kayak when one is available.
Will we see monkeys?
Wild rhesus macaques live along portions of the Silver River and may be seen from the water. Because they move through a large natural area, monkey sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Will we see manatees?
Manatees may be seen at Silver Springs, particularly during cooler weather, but they are wild animals and sightings are never guaranteed. The group will maintain a safe distance and follow passive-observation practices.
Are there alligators at Silver Springs?
Alligators live in the river and may be seen during the tour. They generally keep their distance when left alone. We never approach, feed or interfere with an alligator or any other wildlife.
Do you use clear kayaks for the Silver Springs tour?
No, we deliberately use premium, high-tracking, traditional sit-on-top hulls. While clear plastic looks neat in online photos, in reality, they trap intense Florida sun heat like a greenhouse, scratch easily, and pool water right at your feet. Our premium touring kayaks cut through the Silver Springs river current with half the paddling effort, track perfectly straight, and feature elevated, breathable mesh seats to keep you completely dry, cool, and comfortable for the entire 2 hours. Plus, you get a completely clear view to photograph the monkeys and manatees without looking through a scratched, foggy plastic barrier!
Are sit-on-top kayaks good for beginners?
Yes. Sit-on-top kayaks are stable, open and easy for many beginners to use. They also provide more legroom and a raised view of the water and shoreline.
Can I choose a single or tandem kayak?
Single and tandem kayaks are available, although selection may depend on guest size, age, group needs and equipment availability. Call before booking when you have a specific kayak request.
What are the kayak weight limits?
The listed capacity is 250 pounds for a single kayak and a combined 500 pounds for a tandem kayak. Contact AWA before booking when you are close to a limit or need help choosing the correct kayak.
What is included?
The tour includes a kayak, paddle, personal flotation device, safety whistle, small dry bag, paddling instruction, guide and photographs taken during the tour.
Will I get wet?
You may get wet from paddle drips, splashes or rain. Wear clothing and footwear that can handle water, and bring a towel and change of clothes for after the tour.
Can we swim during the tour?
No. Swimming is not currently permitted at Silver Springs State Park. Guests remain in their kayaks while on the river.
Are park fees included in the tour price?
Park admission, parking and launch fees are separate unless the booking page specifically says they are included. These charges are set by the park and may change.
Where do we meet?
Meet at Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs, FL 34488. Follow the detailed instructions in your booking confirmation and arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Can I bring my pet?
No. Pets are not permitted on AWA’s Silver Springs kayak tours.
Can I paddleboard instead of kayak at Silver Springs?
Yes, paddleboarding may be available on select AWA Silver Springs tours. Contact AWA before booking to confirm paddleboard availability and whether it is a good option for your group.
Planning an Orlando Day Trip?
Silver Springs State Park is a straightforward, scenic 90-minute drive from the main Orlando resort and theme park districts. Our small-group morning tours are the perfect natural escape from the crowded parks, getting you up close with wild monkeys and manatees before the mid-day heat sets in.
What happens if the weather is unsafe?
Weather is monitored before every trip. When AWA cancels because conditions are unsafe, the tour may be refunded or rescheduled in accordance with the current cancellation policy. Guest cancellations and late arrivals are handled according to the terms shown during booking.
Can I book a same-day tour?
Same-day availability may be possible. Call 407-603-7105 to check available times. If you have any questions before booking you can also reach out to me here or message me on Facebook.
Book Your Silver Springs Kayaking Tour
Join me for a guided paddle through the clear waters and natural habitat of Silver Springs State Park.
Tours generally last between 1.5 and 2 hours, are open to guests ages six and older and are limited to six kayaks. Your equipment, safety instruction, guide and tour photographs are included.
Space is limited, so advance reservations are recommended. For same-day availability, call 407-603-7105.