Jacksonville’s waterways offer excellent paddling opportunities that are both affordable and memorable.
The best experience comes from Lofton Creek, where naturalist-led trips reveal alligators and turtles in their natural habitat. For families, I’m a big fan of the self-guided rentals – they’re perfect for exploring Old Florida at your own speed.
Guided eco-tours around Amelia Island stand out for their exceptional wildlife viewing and expert narration.
Small group excursions on Lofton Creek are my favorite pick – they’re intimate and allow time to truly appreciate the surrounding nature.
Let’s look at the specific tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Self-guided family-friendly kayak rentals with knowledgeable naturalist guides and a maximum of 25 travelers for a personalized experience.
- Guided kayak eco-tours priced from €53 per person, with opportunities to spot wildlife and recommendations for appropriate attire and equipment.
- Highly-rated 5.0 out of 5 star guided kayak tours of Lofton Creek, offering a relaxing atmosphere and flexible booking policy.
- Lofton Creek kayaking trips with a professional guide, providing a scenic journey and accessibility for a wide range of participants.
- Kayak experiences in Jacksonville recognized for their excellence, with high traveler recommendation rates and accommodating up to 24 participants.
Self Guided Family Friendly Kayak Rental Experience Old Florida
One of the top-rated family-friendly experiences in the region, this self-guided kayak rental excursion takes adventurers through the serene waters of Old Florida.
With a 5.0 rating from 161 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, the experience is recognized with a Badge of Excellence by Amelia Island Kayak Excursions.
Led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, the kayaking trip offers the opportunity to learn about the local ecosystems and spot various bird species along the shady creek.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced kayakers, the excursion accommodates a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
The meeting point is the Melton Nelson Boat Ramp, where participants can look for the company’s white vans and kayak trailer.
The activity ends back at the starting point, making transportation convenient.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the experience is stroller-friendly and accessible to most travelers, except those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Self Guided Family Friendly Kayak Rental Experience Old Florida Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Kayak Eco Tour: Real Florida Adventure
For an immersive experience exploring the untouched natural landscapes of northeast Florida, the Guided Kayak Eco Tour by Paddle Jax Amelia offers a real adventure into the heart of the region’s pristine waterways.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a relaxing and informative journey through the area’s diverse ecosystem. Priced from €53 per person, the tour accommodates up to 24 travelers and includes complimentary bottled water, kayak, paddles, and life vests.
Suitable for ages 4 and up, the tour requires kayakers to step into approximately 6 inches of water to enter and exit the kayaks. Traveler reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and chances to spot wildlife like alligators and turtles.
Bringing water shoes, sun protection, and waterproof bags for phones and cameras is recommended to enhance the experience. The tour’s friendly atmosphere and ideal suitability for special occasions make it a memorable way to discover the true beauty of Old Florida.
Read our full review: Guided Kayak Eco Tour: Real Florida Adventure Review
Book now: Check availability
Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek
Amelia Adventures, a well-respected tour provider in Jacksonville, offers the Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek, a captivating water-based adventure that showcases the region’s natural wonders.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 317 travelers, the tour is highly recommended, with 100% of participants vouching for its excellence. For $59.94 per person, guests can enjoy a two-hour guided kayak excursion, complete with scenic views of wildlife, including turtles and alligators, and informative commentary from knowledgeable guides.
The tour starts and ends at the Melton Nelson Boat Ramp, accommodating a maximum of 20 travelers. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for individuals with a moderate fitness level.
Travelers consistently praise the friendly guides, the relaxing atmosphere, and the stunning natural beauty of Lofton Creek. With a flexible booking policy and a commitment to safety, this guided kayak tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in the heart of Jacksonville.
Read our full review: Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek Review
Book now: Check availability
Lofton Creek Kayaking Trip With Professional Guide
Adventurers can embark on the captivating Lofton Creek Kayaking Trip with a professional guide, offered by the esteemed Adventures Up The Creek in Jacksonville.
This highly-rated 5.0 experience, recommended by 100% of travelers, takes guests on a scenic journey through the peaceful Lofton Creek. The trip includes all necessary equipment, such as kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, as well as bottled water and snacks.
Conveniently located just 6.5 miles from Fernandina or 5 miles from I-95, the meeting point at the Melton O. Nelson boat ramp provides easy access. The trip is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of participants.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, guests can expect a personalized and informative experience from the knowledgeable guides. Past customers have praised the trip’s educational nature and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including turtles and butterflies, in the calm waters of Lofton Creek.
Read our full review: Lofton Creek Kayaking Trip With Professional Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Jacksonville offers a variety of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. Whether you choose a self-guided family-friendly rental or an eco-tour with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the region’s natural beauty. From Lofton Creek to Amelia Island, these water-based adventures provide the perfect way to explore Old Florida’s serene waterways and encounter its diverse wildlife.