Blue Springs State Park outside Orlando is home to the largest spring on the St. Johns River and a designated national manatee refuge. On this 3-hour excursion your group will paddle to the entrance of the spring run, park the kayaks, and then walk the entire length of the spring run with a guide to spot and photograph the native wildlife. Afterwards you’ll retrieve your kayak and paddle to the Snake River or Hontoon Island. The Hontoon Island area of the river is packed with manatees, otters, and sun-worshipping gators. Overhead bald eagles, ospreys, and red shoulder hawks scan the water and marshes for their next meal. On the riverbank, large wading birds, coots, morehens, and the occasional wild hog can be seen. There’s a nature trail on the island that leads to an ancient Indian shell mound. The park is noted for its large owl population and extensive Indian artifacts including the state’s largest totem pole.

See manatees in their natural habitat in Blue Spring State Park on a kayaking tour. Explore the rivers and creeks and spot a range of other native species within the lush marshland. Enjoy priority entrance to Blue Spring State Park and experience a fantastic view of the spring and the manatees that are to be found in the area. Paddle to the crystal clear waters of Blue Spring, Orange City by kayak and encounter the many manatees that make the area their home. During the summer months indulge in a refreshing dip in the clear waters of the spring. Glide through the calm creeks and rivers of the park and discover a variety of animals including alligators and turtles who often can be seen sunbathing on the shores. Also, keep a lookout for bird species such as a variety of birds including ospreys, eagles, and kingfishers. Then, after you finish your kayaking adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch in the tranquility of nature.

Discover Blue Spring State Park on a standup paddling or kayaking tour with a local guide. Learn why Blue Spring is an ideal manatee habitat, paddle through stunning emerald waters, and hear fascinating facts about the wildlife you spot from the water. Meet your guide at the water and get to grips with your standup paddleboard. Practice on land and then try it out in the water before taking off. If you don't feel ready for a full tour on the SUP, join the tour with a kayak instead. Once you're ready, head into the emerald waters of Blue Spring State Park. Paddle through these warm waters that never dip below 72°F, making them a safe space for manatees year-round. Spot West Indian manatees playing in this designated manatee refuge next to your board, and keep an eye overhead for the majestic bald eagle and sandhill cranes. Stop to admire turtles swimming or sunbathing on the sand.