Kayaker and canoeists alike have an abundance of watery paths to take up and down Florida's east coast. Whether you seek a leisurely paddle or a challenging one, the Atlantic coast has ample opportunity for you to dip an oar or paddle in the water. From mangroves to sand beaches, this coast has a variety of scenery for you to enjoy as you float by.
Bulow Creek
You'll start this paddle under some of the oldest live oaks in the south and end it where freshwater meets salt at the Atlantic Ocean. Florida's Greenways and Trails, or OGT, program designated Bulow Creek as one of its 40 paddling trails. The paddling trail starts at Bulow Creek State Park and ends at Smith Creek Landing at North Peninsula State Park, about 12 miles southeast of Bulow Creek State Park. According to OGT, this paddle is suitable for beginners.
Econlockhatchee
For 19 miles the Econlockhatchee winds through the state forest by the same name, a ribbon of blackwater that ties itself in knots and double backs on itself before unfolding into the St. John's River. During the dry winters, you'll look up at the river banks high above you, making you feel like you're paddling through a ravine. Once the spring rains arrive you'll float by the forest at almost-eye level. Put in at the bridge on State Road 419 and take out south of Lake Harney, where the Econlockhatchee widens as it meets the St. John's.
Loxahatchee River
This strenuous 10-mile paddle pushes you through a cypress forest, hickory trees and mangrove clusters. Fallen trees, low branches and narrow water test your skills as you traverse the blackwater river. The upper portion of the river has some tight turns; in low water, you will need to portage over the river's two dams. In high water, currents may be a factor. This challenging river is Florida's first designated as "Wild and Scenic River"; expect to see wildlife ranging from great blue herons to cottonmouth snakes.
Put in at Palm Beach County's Riverbend Park and take out at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, or turn around and do the whole trail in reverse. Both parks rent kayaks.
Cocoa Beach
Along the Space Coast of Cocoa Beach, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge has several places for a lazy paddle. Dummitt, Eddy and Turnbull creeks as the western side of Mosquito Lagoon's spoil island all afford you the chance to explore the wildlife refuge. These four launch sites are paddling areas rather than trails, making them ideal for less experienced paddlers or people who have only a few hours.
Planning Your East Coast Paddle
Unless noted, these paddling trails and areas don't have a livery on-site. The Office of Greenway and Trails maintains a list of nearby outfitters for its designated trails. If you are paddling in freshwater, remember to be mindful of alligators that live in every Florida freshwater body. If your paddle will take you to the Atlantic, be prepared to take on some water in the surf. Florida's state parks locks their gates at sunset, so park elsewhere if you won't be back to your car before sundown.
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