Looking to get out on the water?  The space coast has some great opportunities for recreational paddlers, anglers, or touring.  Check out our list of favorites below!

 

Oars & Paddles Park - 1329 Banana River Dr. Indian Harbour Beach

Oars & Paddles is the closest public canoe and kayak launch to our store, and is a great launch location for rentals, as well as local residents.  Paddle out to the southern tip of Merritt Island (approximately 5 minutes) and watch dolphins cruise through the water.  Or paddle north through the Grand Canal for a protected, easy paddle.  If you're looking for a bit more adventure, continue north until you reach Sampsons Island (approximately 1 hour 30 min.), a 52-acre island with public camping and hiking trails.  Oars & Paddles has restrooms, water fountains, pavilions, and a kayak and canoe launch.  

1000 Islands, Ramp Road Park - Cocoa Beach, Fl

The 1000 Islands is a jewel nestled in the heart of downtown Cocoa Beach.  Approximately 15 miles north of our store, the 1000 Islands offer a protected paddle through red mangrove islands in clear, shallow water.  A great location to try out kayak fishing, one of the fastest growing activities on the water  Creep through the mangroves stalking massive red drum, snook, or sea trout, or maybe just a good story... If fish aren't what you're after, the area teems with manatee, dolphin, great blue heron, osprey, and more for the naturalist in us all.  Ramp Road Park has restrooms, water fountains, picnic tables, as well as a kayak and canoe ramp.    

Ballard Park - 924 Thomas Barbour Boulevard 

Ballard Park is located at the mouth of the Eau Gallie River, where it empties into the Indian River Lagoon.  Approximately 3 miles from our store, we hold quite a few kayak demos here.  A protected location great for first time paddlers you can paddle up the Eau Gallie River or, if conditions allow, out into the Indian River.  Ballard Park has full faciliities- restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and water fountains.  

Turkey Creek, Alex Goode Park - 1300 Bianca Dr. NE Palm Bay, Fl

 Turkey Creek offers a wide range of paddling opportunities.  Launch from Alex Goode Park and paddle north (approximately 1 hr 30 min.) to the spillage dam to experience the Turkey Creek Sanctuary, a wilderness environment where ancient oak trees shade the river, alligators sun-bathe alongside painted turtles, and hawks cry from the tree tops.  Turkey Creek offers a gentle, winding river paddle, quite the change from the marsh grass and mangroves that dominate our coastal environment.  However, if you prefer that type of paddling, stay close to Alex Goode Park and the outlet to the Indian River, where manatee and dolphin frequently make an appearance.  Turkey Creek is approximately 10 miles south of our store.  

 

Last Updated (Friday, 16 April 2010 15:22)