Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For a complete listing of campgrounds operated by Miami-Dade County, see
A great all-in-one paddling guide - with everything from the state's best water trails to
nitty-gritty advice about weather, equipment and supplies - is
A Paddler's Guide to the
Sunshine State
(2001) by Sandy Huff.
Canoeing & Kayaking
To really experience South Florida's swamps and rivers, its estuaries and inlets, its lagoons
and barrier islands, you need watercraft, preferably the kind you paddle. The intimate quiet
of dipping a paddle among mangroves - startling alligators and ibis - stirs wonder in the
soul. It's not only the Everglades that are great for paddling. Don't forget the coasts. There
are some choice options for coastal kayaking and canoeing in Miami and around.
As with hiking, the winter 'dry' season is best for paddling. If it's summer, canoe near
cool freshwater springs and swimming beaches, 'cause you'll be dreaming about them.
Miami
There are many waterways in the Magic City; the trick is being able to find them and then
being able to find your way
on
them. We should stress that while it is easy to get into the
water in Miami, a guide is crucial for getting out of it; there are strong currents in the local
inlets and channels.
You'll find open waters to paddle around and mangrove tunnels to paddle through in
Oleta River State Park, which sits next to the Haulover inlet. The other hot spot for kayak-
ing and canoeing is Key Biscayne. There's a good boat launch and seawall at Bill Baggs
Cape Florida State Park that fronts No Name Harbor, while offshore paddling is a popular
day-tripping task at Crandon Park.
The Everglades
You'll likely tell your grandchildren about kayaking in Everglades National Park. At
times, you'll feel as if there was nothing in the world but the two mirror-flat reflections of
water and sky; at other moments, that soaring sense of space is compressed into claustro-
