Paddling the Oleta-Miami’s Last Free Flowing River
- Miami-Dade
- Kayak & canoe
- Nature & wildlife
- Active pace
At a glance
- Minimum group
- 16 guests
- Maximum group
- In one group: 30 guests | Simultaneously: 60 guests (2 groups of 30 guests)
- Approximate duration
- 3-3.5 hours (from kayak launch to dock).
- Time of day
- Morning or afternoon
- Meals included
- None (meals can be added for an additional cost); we suggest The Blue Marlin Fish House located right where the tour ends.
- Transportation
- To be provided by client or by Dragonfly Expeditions at additional cost.
Turn back the pages of time to get a feel for life in an earlier Florida. Discover native plants and marine species on a river that has seen the likes of Tequesta Indians, pioneer settlers and bootleggers. Starting at the edge of the historic Everglades and meandering all the way to the Atlantic Ocean, the Oleta River offers a fascinating array of stories and vistas.
Our route explores the State Park along the river and its successful ecological restoration, the Intracoastal Waterway marking the border between high-rise development and pristine mangrove forests surrounding the river and finally the meandering river itself that offers a glimpse into wild Florida.
Hear the stories of how the early Native Americans made this region their home and why it was a popular hiding spot during the Prohibition era. While keeping our eyes peeled for local wildlife like herons, spoonbills, ospreys and the occasional manatee and dolphin, you will find out how this ecosystem was saved from development and remains a symbol of the free-flowing and untamed Florida waterways that are so hard to find today.
What is included
- All equipment rental, entrance fees and taxes.
- Tour interpretation by guide starts and ends at the hotel.
- Guide to guest ratio does not exceed 1:15.
- Our guides are certified and trained and will give basic kayak instructions prior to getting in the water
- Two bottled waters provided per participant.
- Private naturalist - guided kayak portion travels along a scenic route on the Intracoastal Waterway and the undeveloped portion of the river.
- Guides carry sunscreen, first aid kits and emergency equipment.
- Guests will be paired up on comfortable, stable, sit-upon tandem kayaks.
- Personal flotation devices are provided.
Good to know
- The kayaktrip takes about 3 hours. The intensity is partially determined by weather conditions (tides/wind).
- Participants are required to be able to complete this duration and length because there is no way to shorten or to drop out during the tour.
- Guests should bring a change of clothes and a towel; clothes that can get wet and dirty and are comfortable while kayaking are recommended.
- Bottled water will be supplied.
- Guests will be paired in tandem kayaks.
