Kayaking and Canoeing in Hernando County for Some Summer Fun

Kayaking and Canoeing in Hernando County for Some Summer Fun

Kayaking and canoeing in Hernando County is great recreation year round but it is even more fun in the summer when the waters are warming up in the Gulf of Mexico and in the many other bodies of water in our area.

Kayak and Canoe Launches

There are several kayak and canoe launches in the area.  To kayak in the Gulf of Mexico and to explore the saltwater marshes, launch your kayak or canoe from Jenkins Creek in Hernando Beach, Bayport, the public boat ramp in Hernando Beach, or simply start out from the beach at Pine Island.

If you like freshwater kayaking, try the boat launch at Roger's Park and paddle downstream the crystal clear waters of the Weeki Wachee river all the way to Bayport where the river enters the Gulf of Mexico.  Want a little more of a workout?  Try paddling upstream against the current toward Weeki Wachee Springs. 

Waterfront residents in Hernando Beach and Weeki Wachee are fortunate in that they simply can start their paddling adventure from the backyards of their waterfront homes and shout a "hello" to their neighbors as they pass.

Enjoy Florida Nature and Wildlife along the Way!

 Anywhere you choose to kayak or canoe along our coast,you will be certain to encounter a multitude of wildlife.  It's not unusual to watch dolphins play in the Gulf of Mexico, and see a stingray or other fish swim by.  Currently, even many sea turtles are being spotted in our area.

In and along the Weeki Wachee river you will see fish, turtles and birds including bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, and many more.  You may even be lucky to see a manatee!

Or enter some of the residential freshwater canals in Weeki Wachee and enjoy the neighborhood from the water side!

Kayak and Canoe Rentals

For those who don't have their own kayaks or canoes, rentals are available at the Weeki Wachee Marina in Weeki Wachee as well as a kayak rental shop, both located close to Roger's Park. 

If you want to take a relaxing  scenic tour down stream the Weeki Wachee river, go to the rental place behind the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park on US 19 from where you can easily paddle down the river to Roger's Park where you will be picked up and returned to your vehicle. 

In Hernando Beach, you may rent kayaks at the Blue Pelican Marina across the Hernando Beach public boat ramp. 

Safety First!

Don't forget to wear suncreen, a hat and a safety floating device or swim vest - the latter is definitely a must for children!  Take some water with you to prevent dehydration. 

Most of all, enjoy some summer fun kayaking and canoeing in Hernando County and enjoy the area!