Within the larger forest that surrounds the river, Lofton Creek is home to a grand cypress tree that has been a part of these waters for 2,000 years and extends more than 150 feet into the air. In addition to this oldest tree, the forest surrounding Lofton Creek is filled with other cypresses that are well over 500 years old. Cypress trees are a special sight that you don’t get to see too often while running around the city. With knees that stand above the soil, cypress trees can offer the façade of appearing as if they have grown right out of the water.

Most prehistoric forests of cypress are extinct, but here in Florida we have the benefit of being able to kayak right up to the base of some of the oldest living things you can find anywhere. Being close to these ancient growths is enough to make you feel lost as you glide in and out of the forest’s cover.

Also at Lofton Creek are an abundance of maple trees. This is one species that is native to North Florida. Native trees are especially important to take care of, as so many invasive species of plants move into our soil and require extra maintenance, often impairing the ability of our native plants to flourish. The Florida Sugar Maple is one native species that you can find while exploring Lofton Creek.

While you are gliding down Lofton Creek, the branches of our native plants will protect you from the blazing sun. Bay and red maple trees shade the water by creating a canopy of leaves. The densely wooded nature of this forest makes it a difficult terrain to explore on foot, which makes knowing how to kayak a big advantage.

In addition to the nature at Lofton Creek, this kayaking tour will take you under old railroads—something that younger kayakers often seem to enjoy. The nature of the wooded canopy makes this a great expedition for those who want to hit the water without getting too much sun.

What you’ll need to keep your ocean kayaking trip safe and enjoyable

When you’re first learning how to kayak, knowing how to stay safe on the open ocean is of the utmost importance. Wind and waves can pose serious risks in sea kayaking and if unprepared, capsizing can spell trouble. Navigational equipment is important to avoid getting lost in the open water and receiving proper training in a kayaking course is your best bet in staying safe.

When you’re planning an offshore trip here’s what you’ll need to bring along:

• Spare paddle. If you lose your paddle, you’ll be stranded in the open water without a spare. Bring along a take-apart, two-piece paddle that can be bungeed to your kayak’s deck for easy access. If you’re kayaking with a group, make sure everyone has a spare.
• Lifejacket. A lifejacket or personal flotation device should be worn at all times. In addition to keeping you above water if you capsize, your lifejacket will help you keep warm when water temperatures are cold.
• Sprayskirt. Made out of neoprene or nylon, the sprayskirt fits tightly around you waist and the rim of the cockpit. A sprayskirt is crucial in keeping you dry, as it provides a watertight seal around you to keep water from splashing into the kayak.
• Float or paddle bladder. If you capsize, you’ll find it very difficult to get back into the kayak without assistance. To make the process much easier, a float can be used. It has a bladder that fits over one side of your paddle, so you can rest the paddle’s other blade on the deck of the kayak to brace as you climb back in. This maneuver can be tricky—the best way to master it is to have an experienced kayaker show you the ropes and practice until you can do it easily.
• First aid kit. On any outdoor adventure, having a first aid kit handy is a must. If you’re going with a large group, make sure your first aid kit is suitable for the size of that group. Also, be sure to keep it in a waterproof container to prevent the contents from getting waterlogged.
• Topographic map or chart. The best way to keep yourself from getting lost is to carry a map of the area you’re visiting. It’s also a good idea to keep your map in a waterproof, transparent chart case to allow for easy access. A chart case with eyeholes is also a smart choice—this will allow you to attach it to the bungees on your kayak’s deck.
• Compass. In combination with your map, a compass is crucial in ocean navigation. A deck-mounted, spherical glass compass is your best bet, as it will attach to the front deck of your kayak and provide you with an easy-to-see bearing at all times. However, if your kayak is not equipped with a deck-mounted compass, a regular hiker’s compass can be used as well. Just be sure to keep your compass separated from any items containing iron, as they can disrupt your reading.

When preparing for a sea kayaking trip, you should also be sure to wear the proper clothing. Anything made out of cotton is usually a bad choice, as cotton dries slowly and doesn’t retain heat—instead, try clothes made with quick-drying synthetic fibers or wool, which will retain heat even when it’s wet for when you navigate colder waters. Before you head out, you should always take note of the weather conditions and dress appropriately. Depending on the weather, a waterproof jacket or windbreaker may also be a prudent choice, while a hat and sunglasses will help you protect yourself from the sun.

Sea kayaking is a fun experience, but it can quickly turn sour without the proper equipment. Be sure to check your kayak and all of your gear before heading out to keep your kayaking adventure as safe as possible.

Just south of Jacksonville, nestled between the Faver-Dykes State Park and Princess Preserve is Pellicer Creek, a pristine waterway that glides through miles of primeval pine forests that is home to more than 100 species of birds. Starting from the east end of the paddling trail, you will head out from the kayak launch at Princess Place Preserve, a natural park that is made up of 1,500 acres of scenic bliss. The placement of this trail makes just getting to the water an adventure in itself, as the land surrounding the stream is filled with hiking trails, salt marshes and even an equestrian campsite.

Kayaking Pellicer Creek

The water of Pellicer creek is calm, which makes it a great excursion for the recreational kayaker. Taking to the water with camera in hand, you can glide through the water and get lost in time. With the exception of a few bridges that allow cars to pass over parts of the creek, the entire preserve has an essence of being untouched by man. It is not hard to take in nature at its purist as you watch birds fly overhead or splash in the water alongside you.

Out of the many kayaking tours in Jacksonville, heading to Pellicer Creek is one of the best ways to really get in touch with nature in its most unspoiled state. The stream is home to colorful warblers, eagles, falcons, herons, egrets and wood storks, so bring your camera! Alligators are also known to sun bathe along the banks of the creek, but the stillness of the water can let you pass them in peace.

While exploring Pellicer Creek and the surrounding land, you may also come across:

• Deer
• Turkeys
• Hawks
• Bobcats
• River Otters

History of Pellicer Creek

The 1,500 acre preserve surrounding Pellicer Creek was purchased by Henry Cutting back in 1886. Cherokee Grove, as the preserve was once known, was re-named Princess Place after the late Mr. Cutting’s widow, who was re-married to an exiled Russian Prince. Angela Mills Cutting Wordon took the title of Princess after her second marriage, and the park has been named in her favor ever since.

Deep within Princess Place is the original lodge that was built by Henry Cutting. As it stands, it is the oldest intact structure in all of Flagler County. Prior to Henry Cutting, the land was owned by Francisco Pellicer, who the creek remains to be named after now. Pellicer purchased the land in 1788, where he then built a plantation that grew sugar cane, corn and cotton.

As you kayak through Pellicer Creek the history of the stream is front and center, making it easy to become lost in the splendor surrounding you. Whether you are looking for an exciting excursion bringing you face to face with wildlife or a blissful paddle down the river, Pellicer Creek has a lot to offer.

Having the right type of equipment can really make your kayaking experience. Understanding what your personal goals are can help you to make the right purchase.

What Type of Kayak are you looking for?

Depending on what you are hoping to do on the water, you may be interested in a number of different types of kayaks or other supplies. It may be a figure of speech that kayakers “wear their kayaks,” but there is a ring of truth to that statement. When you are on the water your kayak is an extension of you. Make sure that you find one that fits you well.

• Touring kayaks: This type of kayak is perfect for the casual, recreational kayaker that will be going out on flat water, such as the St. Johns River or the Intracoastal here in Jacksonville. Touring kayaks are generally between 13 and 15 feet long and 24 to 26 inches wide.
• Sea kayaks: If you are more interested in taking your kayak out to the ocean, then you may be better off with a sea kayak. Sea kayaks are typically 16 to 18 feet long and only 19 to 23 inches wide. These types of kayaks are able to handle the surf that you wouldn’t encounter kayaking inland.
• Fishing kayaks: Fishing kayaks can come with a lot of accessories ranging from electronics to storage. With this type of kayak you can also opt to sit on top of the boat instead of being confined inside, which could make it a lot easier to actually catch some fish.
• Paddle boards: Taking a paddle board out into the water can be a lot of fun, but only if you take the time to find a paddle board that is right for you. How much you weigh, the conditions that you are planning on paddling in, and your previous experience working with paddle boards all play a role in finding the right board for you.

Safety First! Why Quality Counts on the Water.

Don’t get stranded! How the kayak is made can play a big role in how effective it will be once you are out on the water. Getting a kayak that is made with separate pieces that are put together inefficiently can lead to cracks and pinhole leaks. Purchasing a reliable brand is one way to avoid manufacture errors.

Here are a few reliable kayaking brands that offer a wide range of products, from fishing gear and kayaks to paddles and rescue equipment:

• P&H Sea Kayaks
• Venture Kayaks
• Feel Free Kayaks
• Nigel Dennis Kayaks
• Epic Kayaks
• North Water
• Snap Dragon
• Riviera Paddle Surf
• Kokatat

Buying a kayak involves a little bit of extra research, but once you are out on the water you will be happy that you took the time to find the right piece of equipment for your needs.

The Dutton Island Preserve is set nicely into Atlantic Beach and rests east of the Intra Coastal Waterway, or ICW. There are immaculate tributaries that offer a winding adventure into miles of exquisite estuaries, and here, paddlers are bound to see wildlife. As one paddles through the radiant ecosystem, all manner of life peek out of and dive into the beautiful waters. In fact, the Dutton Island Preserve Salt Marsh tour is one of the only Jacksonville tours that leads paddlers through the same areas that the Atlantic Bottle-Nosed Dolphin uses to teach their young to hunt and feed. There is also an opportunity to glimpse the rare Bald Eagle and the West Indian Manatees as they lazily munch on the vegetation along the shores. Birds are plentiful, as in many parts of Florida, but rarely does one see such a variety of osprey, herons, wood storks–and so much more.

This tour is the epitome of what Florida is really all about. It provides pristine waters for rowing without having to travel the same waters twice, fun for the whole family, and a look at Florida’s wildlife in its natural habitat. It’s not just a tour; it’s the real Florida experience.

Osprey, spoonbills, heron, and other migratory birds glide across the water along with the tour’s kayaks, and often times, sea life pokes its head out to say hello. Eagle rays soar below as manatees munch on seaweed and dolphins leap about and play. It’s certainly a sight in itself, but the real attraction lies in the Kingsley Plantation. The plantation is home to a kitchen house, plantation house, and barn, but all about lays the memory of the slaves that lived there. Still, the tour is anything but morbid as it explores the beautifully aged grounds as you discover the most historically significant parts of the plantation.

When the history lesson is complete, fun ensues as the tour heads out to find a secluded beach where they can swim, have lunch and play in those blue waters. The Kingsley Plantation Historical Tour is a perfect family outing and one of the best family kayaking tours in Jacksonville. Not only is it educational, but it provides insight into Florida’s history as well as its natural backwaters.

Every year from October through February, the Guana Six mile preserve closes for duck hunting, but it is OK because makes us get excited about opening day! It is one of the most beautiful and historical places to visit; especially now through May, before it gets too hot!

With ten miles of winding tributaries and intimate waterways to explore, the Guana Lake portion of the GTMNERR is one of the most unique environments on the east coast of Florida. This amazing ecosystem offers extraordinary views of “Real” Florida wildlife in their wild habitat.

Guana Six Mile located in the northern section of Guana Reserve, is one of Northeast Florida’s best hidden secrets! Experience an abundance of wildlife in one of the best paddling spots in North East Florida. “This place is a birders paradise!” There are over 268 species of birds on the Guana birding list, so you’ll be talking about this paddle for years to come!

Join the ACA Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island exploration journey!! Days one and two of this event will be based on Jekyll Island. Our first venture will be to the south end of St. Simon Island (from North end of Jekyll) via St Simon Sound. Along the way we will be doing some navigation and ACA / BCU paddling skills challenges. We’ll explore some of the beaches of St. Simon upon landing.

Then, on the next day, we will head out to the extremely deserted North end of Cumberland Island. Very few paddlers get to this end of the island due to its distance from the Cumberland Island camp sites. When looking at Cumberland Island from Jekyll Island you’ll see huge white sand cliffs that are very striking. The crossing is via St. Andrews Sound. Here our skills challenges will continue and will be amped up for those seeking certifications! Arriving back from Cumberland Island on Friday afternoon, we will drive to St. Mary’s Georgia and Crooked River State Park to set up camp for Friday and Saturday nights.

Saturday morning around 8am we will paddle to Plum Orchard (midpoint on Cumberland Island). We offer a unique treat of having a local historian and naturalist join us to provide interpretation and local lore. Sunday morning we break camp and drive south (just a bit) to Old Town Fernandina for our final “Teach & Trek”. This trek will take us to the South end of Cumberland Island. Upon arrival, we are sure to see the famed “wild horses of Cumberland” and beautiful primitive vistas. We will hike a loop that will include views of miles of isolated beaches and we can explore the magnificent ruins of the Dungeness Mansion.

Upon our return we will pack up and head to the Irish Pub in downtown Old Town Fernandina for dinner and event de-brief. Another unique aspect of this journey will be the variety of paddling skills, assessments, and certification exams that are being offered. These services are optional, but for those interested you will be challenged with a completely diverse and multi-dimensional paddling environment. Call to book your spot (904) 502-7733

The kayak launch is quick and simple, and then the real magic can begin. The Salt Run is fairly protected by some nearby islands and depending on the time of the day, the water can be shallow in certain areas. But there is no lack of wildlife around here. Porpoises, seagulls, and pelicans are everywhere and they definitely add to the relaxing paddle as you head toward St. Augustine. It’s when you near the mouth of the Matanzas River that you need to start looking out for wind. The waterway dips in and out of the Atlantic offering a good taste of what ocean paddling is like, and the course leads to some pretty nice views of the historical sites in the area, including Castillo San Marco.

Looping around using the San Sebastian River outlet, the road home may leave you with some strong headwinds to power through, but the challenge is part of the fun. The area has a lot to offer in the way of after-paddling activities. There are plenty of parks for picnicking and some fantastic restaurants in downtown St. Augustine. The Salt Run and the Matanzas River, along with the local attractions, definitely provide a full day of fun.

After getting underway, around the first bend one may spot a Great Egret wading not far from shore. More paddling brings the kayak to the salt marsh creek and the Timucuan Preserve, where the estuary forms thousands of acres of tributaries that bend and wind along the marshland. At every twist and turn, birds are spotted waiting for their fish dinner. With canals as protection, bird populations thrive here. One might come across a roseate spoonbill, whose beautiful pink color is marvelous to see.

With a rich history, The Ft. George Island area was occupied by Indians prior to having a fort built by the colonists. Occupied for over 5000 years, the island’s name is derived from the fort built to defend the southern area of the colony of Georgia in 1736.

This kayak trip is through turquoise waters, white sand bars and an abundantly diverse ecosystem. It is a truly fascinating experience and one of the more memorable Jacksonville tours that are offered. With a wonderful workout, amazing views of nature, and being close to wildlife, it is a unique kayaking adventure in the northern Florida area.