2 Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Gilchrist Blue

Florida , USA

2 Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Gilchrist Blue

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(107 reviews)

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About this experience

Our guided 2 hour clear kayak tour will show you a side of Florida’s waterways you have never seen before.

Paddle with us along the Historic Santa Fe River, which boasts the largest congregation of Fresh Water Springs in the world! During this tour, we’ll have plenty to explore and lots of picture opportunities. This tour offers a chance to really experience what all Florida has to offer with its abundance of wildlife and scenic landscaping surrounding you. Our guides will share interesting history and information about the area and ecosystems while we are exploring the Gilchrist Blue Springs and the Santa Fe River. Do not forget your swimsuit – it is perfect for a dip or snorkeling in the refreshing clear blue water!

Prepare to see whitetail deer, river otters, turtles, birds, fish, and more!

Available options

2 Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Gilchrist Blue

What's included

Paddles

Goggles

Use of 100% Clear Kayak

Life-Jacket

Tour Guide

State Park Entrance Fee

Safety Whistle

Dry Bag

Detailed itinerary

Rum Island, nestled along the Santa Fe River, offers a magical kayaking experience combined with the allure of its on-site springs. Paddle through clear waters, surrounded by lush vegetation and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for kayakers of all skill levels. After your tour, the park's two springs provide the perfect spot for a refreshing swim, adding a touch of enchantment to your visit.

The well-maintained picnic areas are perfect for a leisurely lunch, allowing you to relax and savor the picturesque views. Clean and convenient restrooms are available, ensuring a comfortable visit. Rum Island is also a great spot to observe local wildlife, making it a prime location for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Plan your visit to Rum Island for a kayaking adventure and stay to enjoy swimming in the springs, picnicking, and the park's amenities. It's a perfect escape into Florida's natural beauty, creating a memorable and enriching experience.

The Santa Fe River is unique among the many found in North Florida, flowing underground in O’Leno State Park through an intricate cave system only to emerge in River Rise Preserve State Park. The best part? It is all protected for future generations so that they too can appreciate this natural wonder. Learn about the rich history of the Santa Fe River, which boasts over 36 named springs that contribute to its waters. During certain times of the year, the river itself can run clear, displaying a see-through sweet tea or amber-brown color. Our experienced guides provide fascinating information about each spring and the surrounding ecosystem as you paddle around Rum Island and the Santa Fe River. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as fish, herons, otters, white-tail deer, swallow-tail kites, mullet, and an abundance of turtles.

Paddle through a stunning 0.25-mile stretch of crystal-clear water, home to some of the state’s prettiest submerged aquatic vegetation. Marvel at the vibrant underwater landscapes as you glide along this pristine spring run.

Take a refreshing swim in the inviting 20-foot swimming hole, fed by 44 million gallons of fresh water daily. Enjoy plenty of time to relax and immerse yourself in this natural oasis.

On your journey, encounter "Aric the Giant," a majestic 400-year-old cypress tree that stands as a testament to the area's rich natural history. This ancient giant offers a glimpse into the past and adds a sense of wonder to your adventure.

This experience combines the tranquility of clear kayaking with opportunities for swimming and exploring unique natural features. Join us for an unforgettable day at Gilchrist Blue Springs, where nature's beauty awaits at every turn.

What's not included

Parking fee for the County park $5

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

4 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 5.0

103 reviews

5★

100

4★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Weight Limit Per Individual of 250lbs

Meeting point

(Located on site: Restrooms, Park Benches, & BBQ Pits)

Follow the prompts on the gate, and follow the road down to the parking area where your guide will greet you.

About Florida

Florida is a southeastern U.S. state known for its tropical climate, Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico beaches, and diverse wildlife. It's famous for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, as well as its vibrant cities like Miami and Tampa.

Top Attractions

Walt Disney World Resort

The world's largest and most famous theme park resort, featuring four theme parks, two water parks, and numerous entertainment and shopping districts.

Theme Park Multiple days recommended Expensive (Multi-day tickets required)

Kennedy Space Center

NASA's primary launch center for human spaceflight, offering interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and guided tours.

Educational/Historical Half to full day Moderate to Expensive (Varies by tour and exhibit access)

Everglades National Park

A unique subtropical wilderness featuring diverse ecosystems, including sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and hardwood hammocks.

Nature Full day or overnight Free (Entrance fee for some areas and tours)

South Beach

A vibrant beachfront neighborhood in Miami known for its Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and beautiful sandy beaches.

Beach Half day to full day Free (Costs for rentals, food, and drinks)

The Florida Keys

A string of tropical islands stretching from the southern tip of Florida, offering stunning beaches, world-class fishing, and unique marine life.

Island/Scenic Multiple days recommended Moderate to Expensive (Varies by accommodation and activities)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Key Lime Pie

A tangy, sweet pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, topped with whipped cream and a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free with a modified crust

Stone Crab

A Florida delicacy, served chilled with mustard sauce, typically enjoyed with drawn butter and coleslaw.

Main Course Seafood, gluten-free if prepared without cross-contamination

Cuban Sandwich

A pressed sandwich featuring roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, often served with plantains and a side salad.

Lunch Contains pork and gluten, can be made vegetarian with substitutions

Grouper Sandwich

A fried or blackened grouper fillet served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar or remoulade sauce, often accompanied by fries or coleslaw.

Lunch Seafood, can be made gluten-free with a lettuce wrap or gluten-free bun

Popular Activities

Airboat tours in the Everglades Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys Kayaking and paddleboarding in the Ten Thousand Islands Zip-lining at Gatorland (Orlando) Beachcombing and sunbathing on Florida's beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Yoga and meditation classes Stargazing at state parks and nature preserves

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season due to warm, comfortable temperatures and low humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits, but also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

15-29°C 59-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Creole, Portuguese, French, Haitian Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Florida is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates in most tourist areas. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded and popular destinations. Exercise caution in unfamiliar or isolated areas, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and rental companies
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Miami International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown Miami
Orlando International Airport • 19 km (12 miles) from downtown Orlando

By train

Amtrak Stations (e.g., Miami, Orlando, Tampa)

By bus

Greyhound Stations in major cities, Megabus Stations in select cities

Getting around

Public transport

Public bus systems are available in major cities and provide affordable transportation. However, schedules and coverage can be limited outside peak hours and in suburban areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

South Beach (SoBe) Wynwood Ybor City Cocoa Beach Sanibel Island

Day trips

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

241 km (150 miles) from Miami • Full day or overnight

These barrier islands offer beautiful beaches, shelling, and nature preserves, providing a relaxing and scenic escape from the mainland.

St. Augustine

266 km (165 miles) from Orlando • Full day

The oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the U.S., offering historic sites, museums, and charming streets.

Everglades City and the Ten Thousand Islands

130 km (81 miles) from Naples • Full day

A unique and remote area offering eco-tours, airboat rides, and access to the Ten Thousand Islands for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Festivals

Miami Spice • August to September Art Basel Miami Beach • Early December Tampa Bay Margarita Festival • Late February to Early March

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions, such as theme parks and beaches, during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
Explore lesser-known destinations and hidden gems for a more authentic and unique experience
Take advantage of free or low-cost activities, such as visiting beaches, parks, and nature preserves
Plan your trip around special events and festivals for a memorable and engaging experience
Research and book accommodations, attractions, and transportation in advance to secure the best deals and availability