KAYAKING ON THE GUANA RIVER

Do you want to get on the water, but unsure of the easiest way to get “a taste” of this adventure?  It couldn’t be easier than getting on the Guana River near A1A and Mickler Road.  While there are a range of outfitters to help supply needed gear, the North Guana Outpost is right there and can provide all you need to “get on the water”.

The Guana Experience

Located at the north end of the Guana River Wildlife Management Area, just west of Mickler’s Landing, this is one of the easiest ways to get out on the water. The North Guana Outpost is steps away and can provide kayaks, paddleboards, coolers, PDFs and most anything else needed for a great day on the water.

Launching from this area is dependent on water levels and these can vary, so check in advance to confirm that water levels are high enough. Once you are on the waterway it is a beautiful, unique experience. It twists and turns through the brackish estuary and has a lot of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled as you are underway.

If you are not comfortable renting and adventuring out on their own, outfitters also offer guided tours and lessons for both kayaks and stand up paddleboards, so don’t let your inexperience let you miss this great opportunity to see these unique ecosystems.

As you are out kayaking, remember these waters are very sensitive ecosystems that can easily be damaged.  You can be a “Sustainable Ponte Vedra Beach Guest” by:

  • Bring a refillable water bottle that can be attached to your vessel to eliminate any plastics from accidentally entering the water.
  • Stick to sunscreens that are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, two of the most common ingredients found in chemical formulas.
  • Be careful when launching your kayak, or when entering or exiting waters along the way – make sure you are not disturbing sensitive vegetation or habitat used by area wildlife.
  • Keep the “natural” in “natural areas” by packing out what you pack in.

Details

Experience: Kayaking on the Guana River

Address: 4415 Mickler Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082

Hours: For NGO – Monday – Sunday 9am-5pm

Website: northguanaoutpost.com

Facilities Available: The launch provides direct access to Lake Ponte Vedra, is a short walk to the beach at Mickler’s Landing and is approximately two miles from the Intracoastal Waterway. This geographical threesome is only found in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. In addition to the launch itself, NGO provides an array of outdoor equipment and supplies and is known as the “Outfitter for Outsiders”

Level of Difficulty: Easy to moderate – waters on Lake Ponte Vedra are typically calm

Other Information: Great facility and launch for those will limited experience – the combination of rental gear, convenient launch access and calm waters provides a user to get a taste of a water experience while feeling in control.

Visit the Ponte Vedra Visitor Information Center to learn more about the area.

Tips From The Experts

  1. The north side of the Guana Dam is a great place to learn how to paddleboard! The beach walk-in, calm waters and no boat traffic make perfect conditions for learning how to SUP.
  2. Beat the heat in the summer by getting on the water early. The birds are usually more active in the morning as well.
  3. Bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, phone, water and wear comfortable clothing for paddling that can get wet. Also think about getting waterproof phone cases and sun protective clothing.
  4. When launching from North Guana Outpost, look for rosette spoonbills, otters, and fish. The water is clear!
  5. If you are renting equipment, book ahead! By making a reservation for your rentals ahead of time, all you have to do is show up and get on the water faster!