Silver Springs Kayaking
1.5 - 2 Hours
Ages 6+
No Pets
My kayak tours are capped at 6 kayaks per tour, perfect for families and smaller groups!
Discover the Fun Silver Springs Kayaking with Aaron
Silver Springs kayaking is a truly memorable outdoor water experience. As someone who leads these tours daily, I can confidently say this is one of the most memorable outdoor adventures you can have. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or new to paddling, the beauty of Silver Springs State Park will leave you in awe. The crystal-clear waters, abundant wildlife, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for both visitors and locals.
Kayaking with the Manatees and Monkeys at Silver Springs
If you’re searching for a truly unique adventure, look no further than kayaking at Silver Springs. This isn’t just a kayaking trip; it’s an immersion into one of Florida’s most beautiful and historic landscapes. Here, you’ll find an incredible mix of wildlife and natural beauty, with a story around every bend. Whether you’re hoping to spot a gentle manatee gliding beneath your kayak or catch a glimpse of the famous wild rhesus macaque monkeys swinging through the trees, Silver Springs kayaking has something special for everyone.
Silver Springs is a haven for manatees, especially during the cooler months from November through February. As the water temperature in the springs remains a constant 72 degrees year-round, it becomes a vital refuge for these gentle giants when the surrounding waters drop below 68 degrees. During those chilly winter days, you’ll often find numerous manatees gathered in the spring, providing an incredible opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close.
Even during the warmer months, resident manatees can be found living in the springs year-round. If you’re an early riser, getting out on the water in the morning increases your chances of spotting these serene giants, along with a variety of other Florida wildlife. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like paddling through the peaceful waters of Silver Springs with manatees swimming by your side.
Silver Springs is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s a living treasure trove of wildlife and history. As you kayak through the pristine waters, you’ll encounter a variety of Florida’s native species, from magnificent marsh birds and alligators to the wild rhesus macaque monkeys. These monkeys, with their fascinating backstory, have become a unique part of the Silver Springs ecosystem.
Silver Springs kayaking allows you to experience history is as rich as its wildlife. After the Civil War, this area became a major tourist attraction and was even featured in several Hollywood films. Today, the Florida State Park system has preserved over 5,000 acres of this natural wonder, allowing visitors to experience Florida as it once was.
Kayaking Through History: The Silver Springs River
When you kayak through Silver Springs, you’re not just paddling on a river but navigating through a piece of Florida’s living history. I’ve guided countless people along this route, and the sense of stepping back in time is unmistakable each time. As we glide through the crystal-clear waters, we pass by remnants of attractions from the 1930s, some of these being old Hollywood movie props that hint at the area’s cinematic past. One of the highlights is the famous Kings Trail, where you’ll find a replica of Fort King. This isn’t just any fort—Fort King was a cornerstone of Florida’s early history and played a pivotal role in the establishment of Ocala. Every bend in the river tells a story, and I’m here to share it with you.
Exploring the Power and Grandeur of Silver Springs: America’s Largest Spring System
As someone who’s had the privilege of leading tours here, I can tell you that Silver Springs isn’t just any spring system—it’s the largest in the United States. What really sets it apart is the sheer volume of water it discharges. We’re talking about a first-magnitude spring, which means it pumps out over 100 cubic feet of water per second. That’s a powerful flow that sustains an incredibly diverse ecosystem, and being on the water, surrounded by such vibrant life, is an experience you won’t forget.
As your guide, I’ll take you on a journey through this magnificent ecosystem, sharing insights and stories that bring the landscape to life.
Meet the Monkeys of Silver Springs
One of the things I always tell people before we start our tour is to keep their eyes sharp because you never know when you’ll spot one of Silver Springs’ most unique residents—the wild rhesus macaque monkeys. These fascinating creatures were introduced here in the mid-1930s as part of a jungle cruise attraction, but they quickly adapted and made this place their own. Today, they’re a thrilling part of the Silver Springs kayaking experience. Seeing them swing through the trees and interact with their environment adds an element of surprise and excitement to every trip. Trust me, spotting one of these playful primates in the wild is a special moment you won’t forget!
Family-Friendly Fun at Silver Springs
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure that the whole family can enjoy, Silver Springs kayaking is the perfect destination. Our kayak tours are beginner-friendly and suitable for all ages. Your safety is my number one priority, before every trip we do a 15 minute safety briefing. I provide full instructions for beginners, and as your guide, I’ll stay close by to ensure you feel confident and comfortable on the water. Kids aged 6 and older are welcome on our tours.
With so much wildlife to see and explore, Silver Springs kayaking is sure to put big smiles on everyone’s faces—especially the little ones. Whether it’s spotting manatees, monkeys, or a variety of other critters, Silver Springs offers an adventure that’s both fun and educational for the whole family.
Fascinating Manatee Facts
If you’re as fascinated by manatees as I am, here are some remarkable facts about these gentle giants that you’ll find right here in Silver Springs. Often referred to as “sea cows,” manatees get this nickname from their slow grazing habits that mirror those of cows on land. Believe it or not, their closest living relative is the elephant, which makes sense considering their large size and gentle demeanor.
Manatees are ancient creatures, with fossil records tracing them back 45-50 million years. Early manatees were actually amphibious and had legs, which made them resemble a cross between a hippo and an otter. Today, Florida manatees typically reach lengths of 9 to 11.5 feet and weigh between 450 and 1,200 pounds. Despite their size, they are graceful and peaceful animals with an average lifespan of around 30 years.
As herbivores, these fantastic creatures spend about 7 hours a day grazing, consuming up to 10-15% of their body weight in plants. They feed on around 60 different vegetation types, making Silver Springs a perfect habitat. Next time you’re out on the water, keep an eye out for these incredible animals—you might just spot one grazing peacefully beneath the surface!
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
Silver Springs Kayaking Reviews
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?
Is the Silver Springs tour good for beginners?
Not only is it good, but our Silver Springs tour is 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.
What should I wear?
- Swimsuit or clothing that can get wet
- Water shoes or flip-flops
- Hat
- Polarized sunglasses
- Straps for sunglasses and eyeglasses
- Light jacket (weather-dependent)
What should I bring?
- 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
Will I get wet?
- Our kayaks are very stable, but there is always a chance of getting wet.
- We stay in the kayaks throughout the Silver Springs tour.
- Tours operate rain or shine, so be prepared for some wet conditions.
What is provided?
- 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)
Will we see wildlife?
During the tour, you may see turtles, various aquatic life, birds, otters, alligators, deer, manatees, and monkeys. The spring is a lively place; so, you can expect to see some incredible creatures while kayaking Silver Springs! We practice passive observation, maintaining a safe distance to respect their space.
What is your cancellation policy?
- AWA Cancellations: Tours canceled by AWA due to bad weather conditions, such as high winds or temperatures below 40 degrees, customers may choose a refund or to be 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.
Do your kayaks have weight limits?
- Single kayak: 250 lbs
- Tandem kayak: 500 lbs
Are children allowed?
- 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.
I look forward to having you on my Silver Springs Kayaking Tour!