The Wandering Disciple

Well the public schools might not be in session but that doesn't stop this school of fish from taking a field trip swim up the Weeki Wachee River. The crystal clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River attract people and wildlife from all over to play in the cool and refreshing waters that are spring fed from a spring located within the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. In the cooler months, manatees seek refuge in the river as they escape the colder waters of the Gulf of Mexico. You can take in the beauty of the springs by taking a kayak trip from the state park and just leisurely coast down the river and enjoy the sights of the river. The first portion of the trip is in the protected waters of the state park where you can see true Florida beauty without development. Once exiting the park boundary, you are also free to exit your kayak and take a dip in the refreshing waters of the river. (Photo: April 29, 2017)

A school of fish swim up the clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River.  The clear spring fed waters make the fish easy to spot while kayaking down the river.  In addition to the fish, these waters provide temporary homes to manatees when the water in the Gulf is colder. You can get a close up of the marine life by taking a kayak tour from Florida by Boat, the only vendor that allows you to launch from the protected waters of Weeki Wachee State Park.  (Photo: April 29, 2017)

Weeki Wachee, Florida:  Taking advantage of a Saturday off from Little League, we decided to take a two hour drive up to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park for a fun day in the sun.  We have been wanted to visit Weeki Wachee since passing it on the way to Homossassa Springs a few years ago and decided that today was going to be the day.  Today’s trip consisted to two phases, kayaking the Weeki Wachee River and enjoying the shows and water activities of the park.  We checked in with Boating in Florida, the park’s kayak and stand-up paddleboard vendor for our 8am appointment.  After signing waivers and paying our rental fees, they outfitted us with two tandem kayaks, life vests and paddles and we were quickly on our way.  The photos and descriptions on the park’s website do not really prepare you for the beauty you experience once on the river.  Crystal clear water vibrant with colors and wildlife around every corner is the easiest way I can sum...

The spring fed waters of the Weeki Wachee River flow from the Weeki Wachee Springs to the Gulf of Mexico giving kayakers a 7 mile stretch of crystal clear waters to enjoy. Along the peaceful paddle you can observe many species of birds, otters and even the gentle giant manatees. The sandy bottom of the river also allows for many opportunities to hop off the kayak and enjoy the cool and refreshing water along the way. (Photo: April 29, 2017)