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Silver Springs Kayaking Tours

Silver Springs Kayaking Tours

Kayaking Tours at Silver Springs from AWA Kayaking Tours

Ages 6+

No Pets

My kayak tours are capped at 6 kayaks per tour, perfect for families and smaller groups!

1.5 - 2 Hours

Discover the Fun Silver Springs Kayaking with Aaron

If you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, Silver Springs kayaking is it. I’m Aaron, your guide here at AWA Kayak Tours, and I can tell you from experience—this is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring places to paddle in all of Florida.

With crystal-clear waters, abundant wildlife, and rich history around every bend, Silver Springs offers more than just beautiful views. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or brand new to paddling, this place leaves a lasting impression.

kayaking silver springs

Kayaking with the Manatees and Monkeys at Silver Springs

Silver Springs is a year-round sanctuary for manatees, especially during the cooler months from November through February when they seek out the spring’s constant 72-degree water. These gentle “sea cows”—peaceful herbivores that graze for hours and can weigh over 1,000 pounds—are ancient creatures with roots going back over 45 million years. Surprisingly, their closest relatives are elephants. With clear waters and rich vegetation, Silver Springs offers the perfect habitat to spot manatees gliding gracefully beneath your kayak—an unforgettable and truly magical experience.

And yes, those monkey rumors are true. Wild rhesus macaques live along the Silver River. Originally introduced in the 1930s for a jungle-themed attraction, they’ve become a surprising and thrilling part of the ecosystem. Seeing one swing through the trees during a tour always gets a great reaction!

Kayaking Through History: The Silver Springs River

As we glide through the springs, you’ll not only see wildlife—you’ll experience history. Silver Springs became a major attraction after the Civil War and was even featured in old Hollywood films. On our route, we pass remnants of past attractions and landmarks like the replica of Fort King, a key piece of Ocala’s early history. Every tour is a journey through time.

Silver springs kayaking

Why Silver Springs Kayaking Stands Out

Silver Springs is the largest spring system in the United States, pumping out over 100 cubic feet of water per second. That powerful flow supports a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, and being out on the water in the middle of it all is simply breathtaking.

With sit-on-top kayaks (which I specifically chose for their comfort, stability, and superior vantage point), you’ll enjoy an easy and beginner-friendly ride with the best views of the underwater world. I’ll be right there with you, pointing out wildlife, sharing stories, and making sure your experience is fun, safe, and memorable.

silver springs kayaking

Family-Friendly Fun at Silver Springs

Our tours are perfect for families—kids aged 6 and up are welcome. Before each tour, I offer a safety briefing and full instructions, so even first-time paddlers feel confident. Silver Springs kayaking is a great way to connect with nature, learn about Florida’s wildlife, and make lasting memories together.

Book Your Silver Springs Kayaking Adventure Today!

Ready to explore the wonders of Silver Springs with me? Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, our kayak tours offer an unforgettable experience. From manatees to monkeys, Silver Springs is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Book your kayak adventure today, and let’s make some memories on the water!

Silver Springs Kayaking

Ocala kayaking at Silver Springs State Park
A baby monkey we spotted during a tours a Silver Springs
A beautiful baby manatee at Silver Springs during a guided tour with AWA Kayak Tours
AWA - featuring Aaron's Blog
one of the monkeys in Florida with AWA kayak tours

Silver Springs Kayaking Reviews

Susanne M
Susanne M
Aaron is very knowledgeable, skilled, and personable! We had an amazing time paddling with him to the nooks and crannies to see the manatees, turtles, gators, and other items of interest along the river at Silver Springs. Aaron was so patient and helpful, even to paddlers not in our group, to make sure everyone was safe and having a good time on the water!...
Sara Z
Sara Z
We loved our tour! Aaron shared lots of fun info about the Springs. We didn’t see manatees but we saw the monkeys, lots of alligators, turtles, ducks and birds.
Sharon S
Sharon S
Some great memories were made on our kayak tour led by Aaron at Silver Springs. We were appreciative of the small group size, which in our case was just our family. As we had all kayaked before, we were quick to get going in the water and in short order came across a mother manatee and her young...
Kimberly S
Kimberly S
Aaron was so helpful in arranging our tour, he was responsive and very flexible with our requests. We really appreciate how knowledgeable and good natured he is, which made him an excellent guide. We also love how...

Ready for adventure?

We meet for the Silver Springs Kayak tours at: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488

Book Your Silver Springs Kayaking Tour Today

Silver Springs is one of Florida’s oldest and most enjoyed State Parks; it’s in one of Florida’s greatest nature hot-spots, and there’s plenty to explore. My Silver Springs kayaking trips typically last for an hour and a half. 

AWA is ready to take you on a Silver Springs trip that you’ll never forget. This is an adventure the whole family can enjoy, and the experience will last a lifetime. Between the monkeys that we’ll see, the manatees, and aviary life- this trip is a blast. Book your kayak tour today!

Join me for a Silver Springs kayaking experience you will remember forever!

Have any questions?

Are my tours good for beginners?

Not only is it good, but its great! This is the perfect tour for first time or beginner kayakers, and Aaron is an excellent guide; so, you’re sure to fall in love with kayaking while learning to appreciate nature and be safe.

  • Swimsuit or clothing that can get wet
  • Water shoes or flip-flops
  • Hat
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Straps for sunglasses and eyeglasses
  • Light jacket (weather-dependent)

  • SPF 45+ sunblock
  • Bug spray
  • Water and a light snack
  • Waterproof camera or waterproof case for your phone
  • Dry clothes and towel for after the tour
  • Gratuity for your guide

  • Our kayaks are very stable, but there is always a chance of getting wet.
  • We stay in the kayaks throughout the tour.
  • Tours operate rain or shine, so be prepared for some wet conditions.

  • Knowledgeable guide
  • Kayak with paddle
  • PFD (life jacket) and safety whistle
  • Lights for evening tours
  • Dry Bags for the little items in your pocket that you don’t want to get wet. (like your phone and keys)

During our tours, it is possible you will see turtles, various aquatic life, birds, otters, alligators, deer, manatees, and monkeys. This river is a lively place; so, you can expect to see some incredible creatures while kayaking! We practice passive observation, maintaining a safe distance to respect their space.

  • AWA Cancellations: Tours canceled by AWA due to bad weather conditions, such as high winds or temperatures below 40 degrees, will be fully refunded or rescheduled.
  • Customer Cancellations: Cancellations within 24 hours before the tour will receive a full refund, gift card, or reschedule. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.
  • No Shows/Late Arrivals: Full price will be charged for no-shows, partial group no-shows, late arrivals (20 minutes after launch time), or arriving at the wrong location.
  • Contact: For cancellations, please call us; emails are not accepted due to reliability issues.
  • Note: No alcohol or smoking is permitted on tours. Guests under the influence will not be allowed to join and will be charged full price.

  • Single kayak: 250 lbs
  • Tandem kayak: 500 lbs

  • Children 6 years and older are welcome.
  • It is recommended that children 6-10 ride with a parent in a tandem kayak. If unavailable, the parent may tow them to keep the tour on schedule.