Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Lofton Creek Kayak Tour is perfect for paddlers of any level, including children and beginners. It’s an intimate nature experience in which participants can expect to get up close and personal with turtles, alligators, snakes, otters, and occasionally, manatees. The terrestrial nature of the forest attracts pileated woodpeckers, red shoulder hawks, and the curious anhinga, sometimes referred to as the “water turkey.” The protected makeup of Lofton Creek means paddling here is “weather resistant” to tumultuous coastal conditions. A south-bound paddle on Lofton Creek provides picturesque marsh views, whereas a north-bound paddle is a more remote, forested experience. The Lofton Creek Kayak Tour is a guaranteed good time for everyone in your group!
Available options
Single Kayak
Duration: 2 hours
What's included
Kayak
Professional, Fun and Adventurous Kayak Guides
Complimentary Photography Included
Paddle
Life Jacket
Detailed itinerary
1
Our Lofton Creek Kayak Tour is a calm, blackwater channel that meanders through the forested wetlands of Yulee, Florida.
2
A primordial waterway, Lofton Creek features water that is dark in color, created by the tannins which leach into the water as vegetation decays. Replete with bald cypress, sweet gum, and rare flowers like pickerelweed and wild azaleas, this unique ecosystem is reminiscent of an old south bayou – brackish water teeming with unique plants, animals, and reptiles. Native Americans most likely fished these waters and cultivated the land for thousands of years before the Spanish, French, and English arrived in the mid-16th century.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
75 reviews
5★
71
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
295 reviews
5★
285
4★
10
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Melton Nelson Boat Ramp, Yulee, FL 32097
or
463540 S.R. 200, Yulee, FL 32097
GPS can send you just over the creek so just keep an eye out for Melton Nelson Boat Ramp signs.
Important notes
*If you would like to request a tandem kayak please contact us after booking and we will provide 1 tandem kayak to replace 2 of the singles you booked.
*Viator considers child kayak tour tickets as "Adult." When booking a child select "adult"
* Children under 15 need to be in a tandem kayak with an adult
About Jacksonville
Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, known for its beautiful beaches, extensive riverfront, and rich military history. It offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an appealing destination for a variety of travelers.
Top Attractions
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
One of the largest zoos in the southeastern US, featuring over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species.
Nature
3-4 hours
Moderate ($25-$35 for adults, discounts for children and seniors)
Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
An interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, history, and natural history.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate ($15-$20 for adults, discounts for children and seniors)
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
A museum featuring European, American, and contemporary art, as well as beautiful riverfront gardens.
Art
1-2 hours
Moderate ($10-$15 for adults, free for children under 18)
Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
A 14.5-mile paved trail perfect for walking, biking, and nature watching.
Nature
Varies (entire trail can be done in a day with a bike)
Free
Fort Clinch State Park
A state park featuring a well-preserved 19th-century fort and beautiful beaches.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free (parking fee of $5 per vehicle)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grits
A Southern staple made from ground corn, often served with butter, cheese, or shrimp.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (check for animal fat in preparation)
Fried Green Tomatoes
Unripe green tomatoes coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy.
Appetizer/Side
Vegetarian (check for animal fat in preparation)
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Southern dish featuring shrimp served over creamy grits.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Key Lime Pie
A tangy and sweet pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian (check for gelatin in some recipes)
Popular Activities
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the St. Johns River
Hiking and biking on local trails
Beachcombing and swimming at Jacksonville Beach
Spa treatments and relaxation at local resorts
Visiting local museums and art galleries
Attending live performances and events
Surfing and swimming at the beaches
Fishing and boating on the St. Johns River
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with lower humidity and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-30°C
60-85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Jacksonville is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, there are areas and situations to be aware of. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Jacksonville International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown
By bus
Jacksonville Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary form of public transportation in Jacksonville. It's affordable but can be slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Riverside
Beaches
San Marco
Avondale
Day trips
St. Augustine
50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day
The oldest city in the US, featuring historic sites, museums, and beautiful architecture.
Amelia Island
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A barrier island featuring beautiful beaches, state parks, and historic sites.
Fernandina Beach
50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day
A charming beach town featuring a historic district, museums, and beautiful beaches.
Festivals
Riverside Arts Market (RAM) • Saturdays, year-round
Jacksonville Jazz Festival • Late April to early May
First Wednesday Art Walk • First Wednesday of each month
Pro tips
- Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Explore the historic neighborhoods, such as Riverside and Avondale, for a unique and charming experience
- Take a guided tour of the St. Johns River for a unique perspective on the city's natural beauty and history
- Attend a Jacksonville Jaguars game for a taste of the city's sports culture and excitement
- Visit the Beaches Museum and History Park to learn about the history and culture of the Beaches area
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
