Best Watersports: Kayaking
The best way to explore Jacksonville is by water, so get on a kayak and let the adventure begin!
Whether you are a seasoned kayaker or just looking to try something new, Jacksonville has many unique waterways waiting for you to explore them. There are more than 50 public boat and kayak launches across the city at our parks, historic neighborhoods, beaches and preserves. Bring your kayak or just your sense of adventure and get ready to see the best of Jax!
Unique Kayak Launch Sites
Jacksonville’s waterfront State and City parks offer some of the most picturesque views with opportunities to see the local flora and fauna. Check out Dutton Island Preserve, Hanna Park, Pumpkin Hill Preserve, Cradle Creek Preserve and Castaway Island Preserve just to name a few. You can start your day by exploring the park and having a snack before heading out on the water.
Rentals/Tours
No kayak? no problem! There are many kayak rental companies across Jacksonville as well some that offer kayak tours. Book a kayak tour during your visit.
Adventure Kayak Florida: Located in Hanna Park, Adventure Kayak Florida offers single seat and double seat kayaks for you to explore the park’s freshwater lake. Looking for a guide? Sign up for one of the full or half day guided tour. Specialty tours like birding watching are also available.
All Wet Sports: Rent kayaks from All Wet Sports and explore Pottsburg Creek. Bring your camera along and snap photos of turtles and manatees you pass on the water.
Beach Life Rentals: Looking to paddle the ocean or Intracoastal waters? Rent your kayak from Beach Life Rentals. You can also find them in front of the Casa Marina Hotel and Best Western Oceanfront Hotel in Jacksonville Beach.
Black Creek Outfitters: For wildlife enthusiasts, or beach lovers, kayaking is a great way to explore the diverse waterways of the region. Black Creek Outfitters offers rentals, guided tours, lessons and fishing.
Kayak Amelia: Whether it’s kayak, StandUp Paddleboard or SUP Yoga, Kayak Amelia can make it happen. Their location on Simpson Creek inside the Timucuan Preserve promises tranquility. They offer several different tours of the marshes and wetlands of the preserve, no experience required! During the spring, they have a special night firefly tour when the fireflies come to visit. See all the tour offerings and book an experience you won’t soon forget.
Up The Creek Xpeditions: These guided tours are offered at several locations in Jacksonville. All ages and experiences welcome. Up The Creek specializes in professionally guided kayak tours and giant war canoe tours on some of the most iconic and picturesque waterways in the area. The Xpeditions are all-inclusive including arrangements, equipment, snacks and other essentials.