Kayaking in Orlando

While the city of Orlando in central Florida is best known for its massive theme parks, there is so much more to Orlando than Walt Disney World. With its warm weather, natural beauty and pristine waterways, Orlando offers the perfect environment for a diverse range of outdoor activities.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city, a kayaking tour in Orlando is a great way to spend some time outdoors and experience the region’s incredible natural beauty and diverse wildlife for yourself.

Check out our helpful guide on kayaking, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Orlando.

What are the best kayaking tours in Orlando?

Glass-bottom kayaking tour in Rock Springs

Rock Springs Run is located just 40 minutes out of Orlando and is a great location for kayaking thanks to its calm, clear waters. This 2-hour kayaking tour departs from King’s Landing, where you’ll meet your experienced local guide and receive a quick lesson before launching.

As you paddle upstream, you’ll explore a special part of Rock Springs Run called Emerald Cut. There will be plenty of stops for taking photos and you’ll even get the opportunity to swim in the clear spring water if you want to.

This small-group experience is perfect for nature lovers looking to relax in the great outdoors. Some of the animals you may see on this excursion include turtles, fish, birds and even small alligators.

Small-group guided kayaking tour in Rainbow Springs

Rainbow Springs State Park is known for its magnificent natural beauty and provides the backdrop for this fun-filled kayaking tour. Immerse yourself in this thriving ecosystem as you explore the springs in a glass-bottom kayak.

The kayak you’ll use is completely transparent, so you’ll get a clear view of the vibrant underwater world beneath you as you paddle through this picturesque part of Florida. Your guide will lead the way and point out animals like turtles, fish, birds and otters.

Group sizes are limited to just 10 participants, meaning that you’ll enjoy a more personal experience. This tour provides the perfect opportunity to make unforgettable memories during your time in Orlando.

Bioluminescence kayaking tour in Winter Park

Embark on an after-dark adventure when you join this nighttime kayaking tour that begins just after sunset. There is no need to worry about not being able to see where you’re going as your kayak is lit up with LED lights.

During this 2-hour glow-in-the-dark tour, you’ll explore Winter Park’s many attractions, including its Venetian canals, Rollins College and canal-side mansions. You’ll also get the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including fish and birds.

This tour allows you to see the picturesque Winter Park from an entirely different perspective. Your knowledgeable guide will also share fascinating information about Winter Park’s history as you paddle through its picturesque canals.

Guided kayaking tour in Cypress Forest

Shingle Creek, which leads into the Florida Everglades, is a beautiful waterway surrounded by a forest of cypress trees. This tranquil location, not far from Orlando, is where your guided kayaking tour takes place.

As you paddle through the peaceful waters, which are also home to a wide range of wildlife, you’ll spot frogs, birds and maybe even alligators. Your experienced guide is there to lead the way and provide information about the wildlife and old-growth forests you see along the journey.

Choose a tandem kayak and paddle with a friend, or opt for a single kayak that allows you to paddle on your own. This tour is perfect for those who have never tried kayaking before, and children are also welcome.

Kayaking trip on the Econlockhatchee River

The Econlockhatchee River can be found just minutes away from downtown Orlando and provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Explore this mysterious river with an experienced local tour guide as you embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure.

The kayak trip is around 13 kilometers in length and should take around 4 hours in total, giving you more than enough time to marvel at the wildlife and natural beauty on offer. Keep an eye out for river otters, hawks, eagles, fish and alligators as you paddle along the river.

Stop for a picnic-style lunch at the Boy Scout Bridge, where you can relax and refuel under the shade of the ancient cypress trees. This lunch stop also provides the perfect opportunity to take photos and chat with your fellow tour participants.

Silver Springs kayaking adventure tour

Make your way to Silver Springs State Park, one of Florida’s natural treasures, and prepare for a fun-filled kayaking adventure. Once you have met up with your guide at the park, you’ll receive a short lesson and get familiar with your equipment before heading onto the water.

Follow your guide as you paddle through the Fort King Trail, known for its stunning vegetation and crystal-clear waters that allow you to see right through to the bottom. You’ll also explore parts of Rock Springs Run and Wekiva Springs, giving you a broad overview of the area.

There are so many different types of animals that you could spot along the way, including turtles, fish, monkeys, deer and even manatees. Your guide will take photos along the way and you’ll receive a link to these photographs after the tour.

How much do kayaking tours in Orlando cost?

2-hour kayaking tours in Orlando—such as the Rainbow Springs kayaking tour, the cypress forest excursion, bioluminescence tours and the Winter Park kayaking tour—generally cost around US$70 per person including kayaking equipment.

Slightly more comprehensive tours, such as the Econlockhatchee River kayaking tour, typically cost US$80 per person. The Rock Springs Run kayaking trip, which is a very popular tour, costs US$100 per person, while the Silver Springs tour costs US$150 per person.

What's included?

When you book a kayaking tour in Orlando, everything you need for an enjoyable and safe experience is included in the cost of the tour. You’ll be provided with kayaks, paddles and life jackets, and you’ll be led by an experienced tour guide.

Keep in mind that hotel transfers, food, drinks, gratuities and any other personal expenses are not typically included in the cost of your tour.

Where does they start from?

Kayaking tours in Orlando usually begin at paddling centers near the body of water that you’ll be exploring by kayak. Some tour operators ask that you meet at nearby landmarks, such as Rollins College and KP Hole Park.

Make sure you know how to get to the tour’s starting point and aim to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts so that you don’t keep your guide and other tour participants waiting for you.

How long do they typically last?

The typical duration of a kayaking tour in Orlando is usually around 2 hours. However, there are also quite a few 4-hour, and even 5-hour, tours for those looking for a more comprehensive kayaking experience in Florida.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

One of the great things about kayaking tours in Orlando is that many of them are wheelchair-friendly and provide options for those with reduced mobility. However, not all kayaking tours are suitable for wheelchair users and you should always check before booking.

When is the best time for a kayaking tour in Orlando?

The best time for a kayaking tour in Orlando is during spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild, with low humidity and minimal rainfall. The waterways are lively with flora and fauna, offering kayakers picturesque views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Moreover, spring is less crowded compared to the summer months, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable paddling experience.

Which other water activities can you do in Orlando?

• Boat tours in Orlando
• Airboat tours in Orlando
• Fishing charters in Orlando
• Dolphin watching in Orlando
• Manatees swim in Orlando
• Snorkeling in Orlando
• Stand up paddleboarding in Orlando
• Jet ski in Orlando
• Wakeboarding in Orlando
• Rafting in Orlando

Travel tips

• Wear quick-drying clothing, a hat for sun protection, and water shoes. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture.
• Orlando's sun can be intense. Apply waterproof sunscreen, wear sunglasses with UV protection, and consider a long-sleeve UV-protective shirt.
• Mosquitoes and other insects can be common, so bring along eco-friendly insect repellent.
• Orlando's waterways are home to diverse wildlife, including alligators, manatees and various bird species. Maintain a safe distance and never feed or provoke them.