Where to Kayak in Pensacola, Destin, and More!

With spring break right around the corner, it’s time to start planning the activities for your beach getaway! If you’re an adventure traveler, then you’ll want to dive into the fun right away. Fortunately, during spring break, the weather is beautiful and the water is starting to warm up. If you’ve been to the Gulf Coast before, then what about seeing our beautiful areas from a different perspective? Try out a fun water activity like kayaking – there are so many beautiful beaches, bayous, and dune lakes for you to explore during your time here. Just grab a hat, some sunscreen, and your kayak rental before hitting the water! Read on below for our top picks on where to kayak in Pensacola, Destin, Perdido Key, and more.

Pensacola & Perdido Key

This stunning stretch of beach in Northwest Florida offers a myriad of places to explore by kayak! Experience nature firsthand at Big Lagoon State Park in Perdido Key, where you can embark on a kayak journey on the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Weave your way through saltwater marshes as you spot a variety of wildlife, especially a wide variety of birds during the spring and fall migrations. You can bring your own kayak or rent one at the Big Lagoon Ranger Station.

Another great spot to kayak in Pensacola is Pensacola Beach’s sound side. The waters are calmer on this side of Pensacola Beach, providing you with some smooth sailing. This is one of the best spots to experience the beautiful Gulf waters! Pensacola Beach also has several options for kayak rentals – visit Outdoor Gulf Coast for hourly or daily kayak rentals, as well as free delivery across Pensacola and Pensacola Beach. They also offer kayak lessons for inexperienced paddlers.

Orange Beach & Gulf Shores

Grab your paddle and get ready to cruise the waters of Coastal Alabama. Over in Orange Beach, The Wind & Water Learning Center teaches kayak enthusiasts of all ages and skill sets how to paddle (and even sail!). Classes are held over on Wolf Bay so you can easily launch out on the water. Experienced paddlers will jump at the opportunity to paddle on the Perdido Pass. Boggy Point boat launch is a great place to set sail on the water. Many of the restaurants in Orange Beach even feature soft grass beds with a no-motor zone where you can pull up in your kayak and enjoy a delicious Gulf meal.

Meanwhile, in Gulf Shores, Little Lagoon is a hidden gem that you’ll love to explore. Calm and shallow waters make it perfect for kayaking, and you won’t find a lot of boats here. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife – you’ll be able to spot so many species of birds here! Hop in your kayak and get ready to explore this 10-mile stretch of tranquil water.

Destin & Panama City Beach

If you’ve ever been to Destin, then you’re most likely familiar with how fun and beautiful the area is. For those who love kayaking and any other kind of water sport, Destin is the place to be! The Destin Harbor is a beautiful place to launch your kayak, as you can cruise the East Pass and see all the way to the bottom of the sparkling blue waters. Be sure to rent your kayak from a local business like Paddle Tribe Company, which offers hourly and full-day rentals.

Additionally, there are so many options for kayaking in Panama City Beach! One of the most popular spots is St. Andrew’s Park, with a convenient canoe and kayak launch for you to paddle out from. Experience white sand, emerald green water, and a wide variety of migratory birds and butterflies at this 1.5-mile stretch of beach. Be sure to grab your kayak from Coldwater Excursions while you’re at it! Their kayak rentals include the paddle, a life jacket, a whistle, and free delivery and pickup.

For spring break vacation rentals, there’s still time to book – we think you’ll love Alerio E403 in Destin. Featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a room for seven, this vacation condo in Destin is perfect for getaways for family or friends. Located in the heart of Destin’s Miramar Beach community, resort-style amenities and nearby beach access make your spring break vacation even sweeter.