Top North America On the Water - page 332

Nine Mile Pond is one of the Everglades' most iconic paddling destinations, offering a true backcountry experience through winding mangrove tunnels and tranquil freshwater habitats. This route is renowned for its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, where you may encounter alligators, turtles, wading birds, fish, and other native species in their natural environment. It's a peaceful way to immerse yourself in the unique beauty of the Everglades while exploring one of the park's most popular canoe trails. Good to Know All renters must check in at the Flamingo Activities Booth to complete paperwork and collect paddles and life jackets, regardless of where they will launch. Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM All daytime rentals must be returned by 5:00 PM (overnight rentals excluded) All renters 18 and older must present a valid photo ID at check-in, as required by Florida law.

Unlike a guided tour, this pontoon rental gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary through one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Cruise past mangrove shorelines, search for dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, and countless bird species, or find a quiet spot to fish and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With room for up to eight guests, it's one of the best ways to experience the Everglades together while enjoying the comfort and stability of a private pontoon boat. 4-hour and 8-hour rental options available Maximum capacity: 8 guests Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM All rentals must be returned by 5:00 PM Fuel is not included and will be charged based on usage upon return. Primary renter must be 25 years or older, have previous boating experience, and demonstrate safe boating knowledge. Completion of the Everglades National Park Boater Education Program is required before departure.

The compact size of the Sundance Skiff makes it easy to navigate the Everglades' diverse waterways while providing an excellent platform for fishing and wildlife viewing. Equipped with six rod holders, it's a great choice for anglers looking to explore the park's renowned fishing grounds. As you cruise through the mangrove-lined coast, keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, wading birds, and other native wildlife that make the Everglades one of the world's most unique ecosystems. Designed for up to 2 guests Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM All daytime rentals must be returned during store hours (overnight rentals excluded) Fuel is not included. Boats leave with a full tank and must be returned full. Primary renter must be 25 years or older, have previous boating experience, and demonstrate safe boating knowledge. Completion of the Everglades National Park Boater Education Program is required before departure. Please note: GPS is not included with this vessel.

The Mako Pro Skiff is built for exploring shallow coastal waters and is an excellent choice for both fishing and wildlife viewing. Equipped with five rod holders, it's ideal for casting a line while enjoying one of Florida's premier fishing destinations. As you navigate the Everglades, you'll have the opportunity to spot dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of birds, all while experiencing the park from a unique on-the-water perspective. Half-day or Full-day rental: Activity Booth opens at 8:00 AM All full-day rentals must be returned by 4:00 PM Fuel is not included. Boats leave with a full tank and must be returned full. Primary renter must be 25 years or older, have previous boating experience, and demonstrate safe boating knowledge. Completion of the Everglades National Park Boater Education Program is required before departure. Ad

The Carolina Skiff combines comfort and functionality, making it an excellent choice for a day on the water. With GPS navigation, padded seating, and six rod holders, it's well-equipped for anglers and explorers alike. Navigate the Everglades with confidence while searching for dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, and an abundance of native birdlife, or simply enjoy the peaceful beauty of this world-renowned ecosystem from your own private boat. Good to Know 4-hour and 8-hour rental options available Accommodates up to 2 guests Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM All daytime rentals must be returned during store hours (overnight rentals excluded) Fuel is not included. Boats leave with a full tank and must be returned full. Primary renter must be 25 years or older, have previous boating experience, and demonstrate safe boating knowledge. Completion of the Everglades National Park Boater Education Program is required before departure.

Experience the Everglades like never before by exploring its incredible waterways from your own kayak. Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, this rental gives you the freedom to choose your own adventure, allowing you to spend a few hours or an entire day discovering the peaceful beauty of Flamingo at your own pace. Paddle through a one-of-a-kind ecosystem where mangroves, coastal waters, and abundant wildlife create an unforgettable Florida adventure unlike anywhere else.

Experience the Everglades from the water, where quiet paddling offers the best chance to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. Watch for manatees, dolphins, crocodiles, alligators, wading birds, and other native species as you explore at your own pace. Located in the Flamingo area of Everglades National Park, this rental provides direct access to some of the park's most scenic and wildlife-rich waterways without the crowds of a guided tour. Rental durations available: 2, 4, 8, and 24 hours Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Last rental launch: 3:00 PM All daytime rentals must be returned by 5:00 PM (overnight rentals excluded) Must be 18 years or older with a valid photo ID to rent.

Paddling a canoe offers a quiet, immersive way to experience one of the world's most unique ecosystems. Launch directly from Flamingo and explore at your own pace while keeping an eye out for manatees, dolphins, crocodiles, alligators, turtles, and a wide variety of native birds. The canoe's stable, open design also provides plenty of room for your gear, making it perfect for sightseeing, wildlife photography, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Rental durations available: 2, 4, 8, and 24 hours Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Last rental launch: 3:00 PM All daytime rentals must be returned by 5:00 PM (overnight rentals excluded) Must be 18 years or older with a valid photo ID to rent.

A canoe offers a comfortable and peaceful way to experience the Everglades together. Its roomy design provides plenty of space for passengers and gear, making it perfect for wildlife viewing, photography, and leisurely exploration. Launch directly from Flamingo and immerse yourself in one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, where you may encounter manatees, dolphins, crocodiles, alligators, turtles, and an incredible variety of birds along the way. Rental durations available: 2, 4, 8, and 24 hours Activity Booth hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Last rental launch: 3:00 PM All daytime rentals must be returned by 5:00 PM (overnight rentals excluded) Must be 18 years or older with a valid photo ID to rent.

Experience the beauty of Rainbow River Preserve State Park from the water on a guided kayak adventure through one of Florida's most famous spring-fed waterways. Led by an experienced guide, you'll discover the river's crystal-clear waters, scenic surroundings, and hidden gems while learning about the area's natural ecosystem. With a small group size of 10 guests or fewer, this tour offers a more personalized experience and a peaceful way to enjoy the stunning springs, abundant wildlife, and unique beauty of Rainbow River. Equipment is provided if needed, making it easy for both beginners and experienced paddlers to enjoy this unforgettable Florida adventure.

Enjoy one of the best locations for exploring Shell Island with direct access from the closest boat rental facility to Shell Island. The adventure begins as soon as you leave the dock, with quick access to the calm waters of St. Andrews Bay and the area's most popular spots. Unlike a scheduled tour, this private pontoon rental lets you choose your own itinerary—whether that's snorkeling in clear waters, finding the perfect shell, swimming with friends and family, fishing the bay, or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine. 4-hour half-day and 8-hour full-day rental options available Accommodates up to 12 passengers Located at St. Andrews State Park Includes required safety equipment, life jackets, fuel, area maps, and operator training review Perfect for visiting Shell Island, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and relaxing on the water Dolphin sightings are common while exploring the bay and surrounding waters

St. Andrews State Park offers some of the best paddling conditions in Panama City Beach, with calm waters and beautiful surroundings that are ideal for kayaking. A single kayak allows you to explore independently while enjoying the chance to spot local wildlife and experience the park from the water. It's an easy and fun way to add adventure to your visit while creating your own itinerary. Rentals available for 2, 4, and 8 hours Minimum age: 5 years old Children under 2 years old may sit on an adult's lap Children must be 12+ to ride independently Kayaks must be returned within the reserved rental time; late returns are subject to a $50 per vessel, per hour fee Same-day bookings are walk-in only Kayaking to Shell Island is not permitted with these rentals Rentals are available at the Jetty Store at St. Andrews State Park.

A tandem kayak is a fun way to explore St. Andrews State Park together while enjoying the stability and comfort of a two-person vessel. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle, wildlife viewing, or a new way to experience the park, this rental gives you the freedom to set your own pace and enjoy the water on your schedule. Rentals available for 2, 4, and 8 hours Minimum age: 5 years old Children under 2 years old may sit on an adult's lap Children must be 12+ to ride independently Kayaks must be returned within the reserved rental time; late returns are subject to a $50 per vessel, per hour fee Same-day bookings are walk-in only Kayaking to Shell Island is not permitted with these rentals Rentals are available at the Jetty Store at St. Andrews State Park.

Stand-up paddle boarding offers a peaceful way to experience the beauty of St. Andrews State Park while staying active on the water. Glide across the bay, enjoy the sunshine, and take in the area's natural scenery from a different viewpoint. With the freedom to choose your rental duration, you can enjoy a quick paddle or spend a full day exploring the park's waterways at your own pace. Rentals available for 2, 4, and 8 hours Minimum age: 5 years old Children under 2 years old may sit on an adult's lap Children must be 12+ to ride independently Kayaks must be returned within the reserved rental time; late returns are subject to a $50 per vessel, per hour fee Same-day bookings are walk-in only Kayaking to Shell Island is not permitted with these rentals Rentals are available at the Jetty Store at St. Andrews State Park.

Paddle together through the crystal-clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River, where you'll discover scenic spring-fed waterways, peaceful surroundings, and opportunities to spot native wildlife. A tandem kayak is the perfect way for couples, friends, and families to enjoy one of Florida's most picturesque rivers together.

Glide across one of Florida's most beautiful spring-fed rivers, surrounded by crystal-clear water, lush scenery, and abundant native wildlife. Stand-up paddleboarding provides a unique vantage point to take in the river's beauty while enjoying a peaceful outdoor adventure at your own pace.

Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River alongside a certified guide who shares fascinating insights about the area's wildlife, native plants, river history, and local ecosystem. Paddle through scenic spring-fed waterways, learn proper river etiquette, and gain confidence with helpful kayaking tips while enjoying one of Florida's most beautiful natural springs.

Share the adventure as you paddle the crystal-clear Weeki Wachee River with a certified guide. Along the way, discover the river's unique history, diverse wildlife, native vegetation, and fascinating spring ecosystem while enjoying a relaxing paddle through one of Florida's most scenic waterways. Perfect for couples, families, and friends looking to experience the river together.

Choose between a single or tandem kayak and explore the crystal-clear waters of Wekiwa Springs with an experienced guide. Paddle through scenic spring-fed waterways while learning about the area's unique ecosystem, native wildlife, and natural history. Whether you're enjoying the adventure solo or sharing the experience with a partner, you'll have opportunities to spot turtles, birds, fish, river otters, and other wildlife in one of Florida's most beautiful natural settings.

See Wekiwa Springs from a unique vantage point as you glide across its crystal-clear waters on a stand-up paddleboard. Your guide will help you build confidence on the board while leading you through beautiful spring-fed waterways filled with wildlife and lush scenery. The elevated perspective offers incredible views beneath the water's surface, making it one of the most immersive ways to experience this natural Florida paradise.

Wekiwa Springs offers a peaceful paddling experience on one of Florida's most pristine spring-fed rivers. With crystal-clear water, shaded natural scenery, and opportunities to spot turtles, fish, birds, deer, and even river otters, it's the perfect destination for nature lovers. Launching directly from the park gives you easy access to the spring run and winding river, making every trip a relaxing escape into Florida's natural beauty.

Launch directly from a sandy beach into the pristine waters of Wekiwa Springs, one of Florida's most scenic natural springs. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace while taking in crystal-clear water, native wildlife, and the peaceful beauty of this protected state park. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle or an outdoor adventure, this self-guided experience lets you experience Wekiwa your way.

A tandem kayak is the perfect way to experience Wekiwa Springs with a friend, family member, or partner. Paddle together through one of Florida's most scenic spring-fed rivers, where clear water, lush forests, and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable setting. The calm waters are ideal for all skill levels, making it easy to relax, explore hidden corners of the river, and enjoy the natural beauty side by side.

Stand-up paddleboarding at Wekiwa Springs combines adventure, relaxation, and incredible scenery. The clear, calm waters make it an excellent location for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, while the elevated viewpoint offers a great chance to spot turtles, fish, birds, and other native wildlife below and around you. It's a peaceful and immersive way to experience the beauty of Florida's spring-fed waterways.