Orlando’s waterways offer an enchanting escape from the city’s bustling theme parks.
While there are a plenty of destinations across the country to enjoy kayaking, Orlando is particularly known for some great spots.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best places you can visit in and around Orlando. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, these destinations provide unforgettable adventures on the water.
Let’s take a look.
1. Lake Baldwin
Location: 2380 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando
An urban oasis perfect for quick escapes.
Features:
- 3-mile circumference
- Dog-friendly shores
- Calm waters
- Urban views
- Easy access
Amenities:
- Free parking
- Launch area
- Park facilities
- Walking trails
- Nearby dining
Perfect For:
- After-work paddles
- Quick trips
- Photography
- Exercise
- Social paddling
2. Clear Lake
Location: 1900 Clear Lake Road, Orlando
A spring-fed urban lake offering peaceful paddling with city views.
Characteristics:
- 310 acres
- Spring-fed waters
- Downtown skyline views
- Historic neighborhoods
- Wildlife refuge
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Photography
- Fishing
- Exercise
- Nature observation
Tips:
- Morning light best
- Weekday paddling
- Weather awareness
- Camera recommended
- Local parking rules
3. Lake Conway
Location: 100 Lake Conway Circle, Orlando
A family-friendly destination comprising three pools of clear water.
Features:
- Protected coves
- Residential shoreline
- Multiple islands
- Clear waters
- Minimal boat traffic
Facilities:
- Easy launch areas
- Parking available
- Nearby restaurants
- Rest areas
- Weather shelter
Best For:
- Family outings
- Beginning paddlers
- Photography
- Short trips
- Sunset paddles
4. Wekiwa Springs State Park
Location: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
This emerald oasis is one of Florida’s most beloved paddling destinations. The spring pumps out 43 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily, maintaining a refreshing 72°F year-round.
What to Expect:
- 16 miles of marked paddling trails
- Launch area with easy entry for beginners
- Rental facility offering single and tandem kayaks
- Concession stand and picnic areas
- Modern restroom facilities
- Ample parking ($6 per vehicle)
Wildlife Spotting:
- River otters in early morning
- Great blue herons and egrets
- Occasional alligators (primarily in winter)
- Turtles sunbathing on logs
- White-tailed deer along shores
Best Experience:
- Arrive before 9 AM to secure parking
- Plan 2-4 hours for a complete experience
- Consider weekday visits to avoid crowds
- Bring underwater camera for spring runs
5. Rock Springs Run
Location: 25633 SR 46, Sorrento, FL 32776
This natural lazy river offers one of Central Florida’s most scenic paddling experiences, combining crystal-clear waters with lush wilderness.
The Experience:
- 8-mile downstream paddle
- Class I rapids during high water
- Natural limestone formations
- Dense canopy providing shade
- Several sandy beaches for breaks
Planning Your Trip:
- Launch from King’s Landing
- Shuttle service available ($10 per person)
- 4-6 hour average trip time
- Reservation recommended for rentals
- Early morning starts recommended
Highlights:
- Multiple spring seeps along route
- Historic Native American sites
- Prime fishing spots
- Photography opportunities
- Swimming areas at sandbars
6. Winter Park Chain of Lakes
Location: Multiple access points – Dinky Dock Park primary launch
Experience urban paddling at its finest through historic canals connecting six beautiful lakes.
The Lakes:
- Lake Virginia – Perfect for beginners
- Lake Osceola – Best mansion views
- Lake Maitland – Largest in the chain
- Lake Mizell – Quiet and peaceful
- Lake Nina – Wildlife viewing
- Lake Sylvan – Less trafficked
Features:
- Historic Venetian-style canals
- Multi-million dollar lakefront estates
- Scenic bridges and walkways
- Hidden coves and islands
- Waterfront restaurants accessible by kayak
Practical Information:
- Parking at Dinky Dock ($5 daily)
- Multiple rental vendors
- 2-5 hour typical trip
- Best during weekday mornings
- Navigation maps recommended
7. Shingle Creek Regional Park
Location: 4266 W Vine St, Kissimmee, FL 34741
Known as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” this historic waterway offers an authentic Florida paddling experience.
The Paddle:
- Multiple trail options (2-10 miles)
- Narrow, tropical waterway
- Overhanging cypress trees
- Clear tannin-stained water
- Minimal boat traffic
Facilities:
- Modern launch area
- Ample parking (free)
- Rental equipment available
- Picnic pavilions
- Clean restrooms
- Trail maps and guides
Points of Interest:
- Historic markers along route
- Native American settlement sites
- Pioneer village
- Wildlife observation points
- Educational exhibits
8. Lake Jesup
Location: Black Hammock Fish Camp, 2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Rd
Home to one of Florida’s largest alligator populations, Lake Jesup offers an exciting paddling adventure for experienced kayakers.
Key Features:
- 16,000-acre lake
- Vast marshlands
- Seasonal wildflower fields
- Bird rookeries
- Historic fish camps
Safety Considerations:
- Weather monitoring essential
- Morning paddling recommended
- Stay near shoreline
- Guide recommended for first visit
- Check wind conditions
Best Experiences:
- Fall wildflower blooms
- Sunrise photography
- Bird watching (over 200 species)
- Fishing opportunities
- Airboat tours available
9. Butler Chain of Lakes
Location: R.D. Keene Park, 10900 Chase Road, Windermere
This prestigious chain of lakes offers some of the clearest waters in Central Florida.
The Chain:
- 11 interconnected lakes
- 5,000 acres of water
- Sandy-bottom waters
- Protected coves
- Historic canals
Activities:
- Premium bass fishing
- Photography opportunities
- Bird watching
- Swimming in clear waters
- Island exploration
Planning Tips:
- Multiple public access points
- Weekend crowds common
- Early morning starts best
- Navigation map essential
- Full-day trips possible
10. Little Big Econ State Forest
Location: 1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva
Where the Econlockhatchee River meets the Little Econ, creating a unique paddling experience.
The Experience:
- Winding river paths
- Sandy beaches
- Wildlife corridors
- Fishing spots
- Camping options
Trail Features:
- Class I rapids (seasonal)
- Natural springs
- Historic sites
- Wildlife viewing areas
- Rest stops
Planning:
- Check water levels
- Multiple access points
- Shuttle service available
- Guide recommended
- Season considerations
11. Lake Tohopekaliga
Location: 101 Lakeshore Blvd, Kissimmee
Locally known as “Lake Toho,” this vast lake offers diverse paddling experiences.
Highlights:
- 18,810-acre lake
- Cypress forests
- Bass fishing capital
- Bird sanctuaries
- Scenic shoreline
Facilities:
- Multiple boat ramps
- Fishing piers
- Parking areas
- Restrooms
- Picnic areas
Best Times:
- Early morning
- Winter months
- Weekday paddles
- Spring migration
- Fall fishing
12. Shell Creek
Location: Near East Lake Tohopekaliga
A hidden gem offering an intimate paddling experience.
The Experience:
- Narrow waterway
- Rich biodiversity
- Natural Florida
- Minimal traffic
- Photography haven
Wildlife:
- Wading birds
- Small alligators
- River otters
- Turtles
- Native fish
Planning:
- Guide recommended
- Seasonal access
- Weather dependent
- Early starts best
- Equipment check
Conclusion
These amazing destinations are just the beginning of what Orlando and Central Florida has to offer paddlers.
Each season brings new wildlife viewing opportunities, changing water conditions, and fresh adventures. Keep a paddling journal, take photos, and don’t be afraid to revisit locations at different times of the year – you’ll discover something new each time.
Remember: the best paddling destination is often the one that matches your current skill level and interests. Start small, stay safe, and let your curiosity guide you to new adventures on Orlando’s beautiful waterways.
