Florida

Back to Nature: Kayaking the Waterways of Florida

Program No. 22647RJ
The Florida coastline boasts beautiful nature reserves and some of the finest kayaking in America. Kayak through mangroves and wetlands to search for wildlife with expert naturalists.

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Protecting the Environment

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At a Glance

The mangroves, wetland canals and abundance of wildlife make Florida’s Space Coast one of the premier kayaking sites in America. Join expert naturalists and kayak instructors to explore this sublime wilderness on a kayaking adventure suitable for all skill levels. Search for an array of wildlife and learn what makes this unspoiled ecosystem such a thriving habitat. Kayak through wildlife sanctuaries and nature reserves, including the remarkable 1,000 Islands and the Turkey Creek Sanctuary. Discover why this region of Florida is known as the Space Coast with a visit to Kennedy Space Center.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking up to 2 miles a day and kayaking 3-4 hours a day in breezy conditions on coastal paddles. Kayaking is appropriate for beginner and intermediate levels.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Kayak with naturalists through Florida’s mangroves to view wading birds, dolphins, ospreys and manatees.
  • Bask in the gentle glow of Cocoa Beach's comb jellies by moonlight during a nighttime paddle.
  • View the Saturn V rocket and watch a recreation of the Apollo 11 moon landing on a field trip to Kennedy Space Center.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Johnny Layton
Johnny Layton has been leading programs for Road Scholar since 2017. From the Florida Keys to Alaska, Johnny has led programs in 11 states and four countries. When he is not ensuring Road Scholar participants are having an amazing experience, you can find him in the sky crisscrossing the USA as a flight attendant or as a driver/guide on the Historic Trolley Tour at home in Asheville, North Carolina.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Johnny Layton
Johnny Layton View biography
Johnny Layton has been leading programs for Road Scholar since 2017. From the Florida Keys to Alaska, Johnny has led programs in 11 states and four countries. When he is not ensuring Road Scholar participants are having an amazing experience, you can find him in the sky crisscrossing the USA as a flight attendant or as a driver/guide on the Historic Trolley Tour at home in Asheville, North Carolina.
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Anita Allen View biography
Anita Allen grew up in Indiana and now lives in Coral Springs, Florida. She earned her BA in zoology and MAs in environmental science and geography. She worked for many years in environmental protection and water management along with assisting with sports specialty travel groups around the world. Anita now leads groups for Road Scholar in Florida. When not leading groups, she enjoys running, kayaking and taking photographs.
Profile Image of Ashley Konan
Ashley Konan View biography
Ashley Konan, a dedicated advocate for nature, has called Florida home for a decade. Having earned a B.S. in animal science from the University of Vermont, Ashley has traversed a diverse professional landscape, serving as a zookeeper at three different zoos, leading kayak adventures on the Indian River Lagoon, and contributing to the preservation of the Wekiva Wild and Scenic River system. Ashley's academic pursuits continue with a master's degree through Project Dragonfly at Miami University.
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