An awesome experience with kayaks. One feels on the level of the environment. A bit difficult manuevering a double person kayak in the mangroves.

An awesome experience with kayaks. One feels on the level of the environment. A bit difficult manuevering a double person kayak in the mangroves.
Beautiful kayaking, we took our own boats but did go with a group of friends who knew their way around the mangrove tunnels - I can see where you would run into trouble if you didn't know the tunnels/tides etc.
I was jealous of all those kayakers but we had a nice hike along the boardwalks. Lots of wildlife to be seen. The flying fish (snook) were quite amusing to me. Unfortunately the information center is not open on Sundays. Glad that the rest rooms were, tho!
This review is strictly about our experience with Sweetwater Kayaks at Weedon Island Preserve. They are not listed separately on tripadvisor at this time. I preface my comments by stating I am an experienced kayaker. We arrived at the designated location at Weedon Island Preserve to get our tandem kayak rental. I was concerned as soon as I saw the...
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There are two paddling trails in the preserve. I have only paddled the South loop. You must time this paddle correctly with the tides. There is a tidal chart at www.saltwatertides.com and look for tides for the Old Port of Tampa. That chart will be close enough for what you need.
We launched exactly 2 hours before high tide and...
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This is a perfect escape from reality. Long trails, nature, sun and open air. Love this place. They don't allow dogs for some reason but I occasionally bring mine. Some of the trails are really sandy so sandals or expects to have sand in your socks.
The Preserve has several trails to walk or run on (no bikes) - some were paved, some were just dirt. Slow day for animals, just saw a hawk, fish, and a dolphin from the observation tower. There is also a fishing pier and a canoe/kayak launch. The exhibits are only open Thursday - Sunday. The Preserve also has events and...
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This is definitely my favorite park in the St. Petersburg area. It's well maintained, spacious, and beautiful.
I've paddled Weedon Island several times, but the first time was the best! Bird watching was great. Saw a couple of rays. No dolphin. You may have to get out of your boat and drag across the shallow areas (don't go when it's too cold). But once you've done it, you've done it. It's really the same every time.
Nice quiet walk along paths and board walks with views of some small ponds and salt water inlets. Very little wild life was seen.
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