Paddling: kayaks and canoes

How to enjoy it in South Florida

Protected mangroves offer a different paddling experience from exposed bays. Check authorized access, PFDs, wind, tides and actual rental services.

What to check first

Evaluate weather and site-specific rules, route conditions, any training requirements and available facilities. Confirm rental operators directly. Some directory connections are historical editorial associations only.

What to bring

• Correctly fitted PFD for every paddler
• Whistle or sound device
• Water and sun cover
• Kayak and paddle or verified rental
• Weather/launch check

Places to explore

Browse destinations for this activity, including guided options and places with designated access.

Hollywood · Broward

Anne Kolb Nature Center / West Lake Park

Explore mangrove wetlands, a nature center and shoreline observation areas at West Lake. Boardwalk walks and paddling outings offer two very different ways to enjoy this coastal environment.

Explore destination →

Dania Beach · Broward

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

Enjoy an Atlantic beach paired with a sheltered mangrove-lined creek. Kayaking and paddleboarding in Whiskey Creek provide a different outing from open-ocean swimming.

Explore destination →

Fort Lauderdale · Broward

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

A shady natural retreat beside Fort Lauderdale Beach, with short trails, quiet inland water and opportunities for paddling, walking and wildlife observation.

Explore destination →

Key Biscayne · Miami-Dade

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Atlantic beach, Biscayne Bay, the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse and shaded bike paths make this Key Biscayne park a rewarding beach-and-nature outing. The ocean beach has no lifeguards.

Explore destination →

Homestead · Miami-Dade

Biscayne National Park - Convoy Point

A bayside introduction to Biscayne National Park with a visitor center, shoreline views and access to separately booked boat experiences.

Explore destination →

South Miami-Dade · Miami-Dade

Black Point Park & Marina

A busy Biscayne Bay marina with boat ramps, waterside paths and opportunities to watch fishing boats come and go. Designated shore-side recreation gives non-boaters a reason to visit too.

Explore destination →

Key Biscayne · Miami-Dade

Crandon Park

A long Key Biscayne beach and parkland setting, combining Atlantic swimming, picnic areas, nature experiences and separate tennis and golf facilities.

Explore destination →

Palmetto Bay · Miami-Dade

Deering Estate

Explore historic buildings, coastal habitat and nature trails in a protected bayfront estate. Entry is ticketed, while certain environmental and paddling programs require reservations.

Explore destination →

Southwest of Homestead · Miami-Dade

Flamingo - Everglades National Park

At the southern end of Everglades National Park, Florida Bay scenery, wildlife observation, fishing and separately arranged paddling offer a more remote outdoor day.

Explore destination →

Homestead · Miami-Dade

Homestead Bayfront Park & Marina

A family waterfront area and a working marina on Biscayne Bay, offering bay views, picnic spaces and boat-launch facilities. Swimmers and boaters use different designated areas.

Explore destination →

Coral Gables · Miami-Dade

Matheson Hammock Park & Marina

A distinct atoll lagoon and marina setting; lifeguards are scheduled on weekends and holidays according to the county. Self-service SUP/kayak kiosks can be an alternative to purchasing a vessel.

Explore destination →

Everglades / road to Flamingo · Miami-Dade

Nine Mile Pond canoe trail

A 5.2-mile marked Everglades canoe route through shallow marsh and mangrove islands. Wind and water levels make careful planning especially important.

Explore destination →

North Miami Beach · Miami-Dade

Oleta River State Park

South Florida mangroves meet real cycling choices: rent a kayak to glide through tidal creeks, or select one of the posted bike paths. Start by choosing water or bike.

Explore destination →

Key Largo (Monroe County) · Monroe / Upper Keys

Key Largo - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

A renowned Key Largo gateway to mangroves, offshore reefs, snorkeling excursions and glass-bottom boat trips. Marine tours are booked separately and depend on weather.

Explore destination →

West Palm Beach area · Palm Beach

Okeeheelee Park

A large West Palm Beach area park with freshwater fishing, nature trails, mountain biking and separate equestrian recreation zones.

Explore destination →

West Palm Beach · Palm Beach

West Palm Beach Waterfront / Flagler Drive

Walk beside the Intracoastal along Flagler Drive for breezy views, city gardens, places to rest and nearby downtown dining.

Explore destination →

Related activities

Equipment or rental?

You can bring your own suitable equipment or rent from an operator where offered. Match safety gear to the activity and follow park rules.

Plan an activity-specific day