Florida Guide > Days Out
Paddleboard at Kelly Springs
If you fancy doing something different, away from the theme parks that isn’t expensive and will also help shed a few calories you’ve put on eating the massive restaurant portions, I can recommend paddle boarding. You can get sessions for about $30 per person.
There are a few companies that offer really good lessons and guided tours in and around the Orlando area.
I first paddle boarded at age 47 and was quite nervous that I wouldn’t be able to do it but it is easy
You’ll get to see some wildlife while you take in the relaxing tour.
Our family of 2 adults and 3 Children (youngest was 14) have done paddle boarding twice now and used the same company.
we met out instructor at a lovely secluded spot at Kelly Springs which is part of Wekiwa State Park just 30-40 minutes outside Orlando. All you need to bring is your swimming gear, hat and sunscreen.
I would also recommend some insect repellent as you do get some midges as you paddle along, nothing to worry about though.
The instructor took us through a simple to understand induction (on dry land) and made sure we were happy before we even touched the water. It’s easy and you really don’t need any prior experience. It’s just a matter of balance,
It is best to start on the board in a kneeling position, after a few minutes you become accustomed to being on the board in the water and you can then get to a standing position.
There’s no pressure and the pace is as relaxed. If you really don’t want to stand on the board you can always stay in the kneeling position.
Once you’ve got your balance and stop looking at your feet, which doesn’t take long at all, you can really start to enjoy the experience.
It’s a serene experience as you paddle along the spring taking in the soft breeze and looking out for wildlife in the water and on the banks.
We saw lots of fish, birds, turtles and even a couple of alligators – though don’t worry the instructor makes sure you are a safe distance and we never felt unsafe or worried.
The instructor even takes pictures of you during the tour and emails them to you afterwards.
The guided tour takes about 2 hours so it still leaves time to go and to something else for the day if you want.
Next time we go paddle boarding we are going to go out towards the beach locations that they offer and hopefully see dolphins. We haven’t done it, but the companies also offer kayak tours and rental if that’s something you’d prefer.
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