Kayaking Amelia Island
Salt marshes, tidal creeks & bioluminescent night paddles
Forget the crowded Florida waterways you've seen on Instagram. Amelia Island's 40+ miles of navigable creeks, salt marshes, and tidal flats remain one of the state's best-kept paddling secrets. I've spent years exploring these waters, and the combination of diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and minimal boat traffic makes this the kayaking destination I keep coming back to.
Whether you're chasing bioluminescent plankton on a summer night paddle, stalking redfish through the grass flats, or just looking for a peaceful morning on the water, this guide covers everything you need to plan your trip—from the best launch spots locals actually use to rental outfitters who won't gouge you on prices.
Best Launch Spots
Skip the overcrowded public ramps. These are the spots where you'll find easy parking, protected waters, and immediate access to the good stuff.
Egan's Creek Greenway
EasyThe go-to spot for beginners and anyone wanting a guaranteed good paddle. Launch from the Jasmine Street access point and you're immediately in a protected tidal creek surrounded by maritime forest. Paddle north toward the Greenway trails or south into the wider marsh system. Manatees frequent this area in cooler months.
Fort Clinch Tidal Flats
ModerateLaunch from the beach near the fort and paddle the tidal flats on the Cumberland Sound side. This is where the serious birders come—oystercatchers, pelicans, and the occasional roseate spoonbill. The currents can be strong near the inlet, so time your paddle with the tides.
Lofton Creek
EasyA hidden gem that most visitors never find. Take US-17 south toward the bridge and look for the small pull-off on your right. This blackwater creek feels more like the Amazon than Florida—cypress knees, Spanish moss, and tannin-stained water. Gators live here—you'll see them, so keep your distance and don't be stupid about it.
Downtown Marina
EasyThe most convenient launch if you're staying downtown. Rent a kayak from one of the outfitters right there and paddle the Amelia River. Good for sunset paddles—grab dinner at a waterfront restaurant after. Not the most scenic option, but hard to beat for convenience.
Kayak Rentals
You don't need to haul your own boat. These local outfitters offer quality kayaks at reasonable rates, and most include paddles, PFDs, and basic instruction.
Kayak Amelia
The island's most established outfitter. They know these waters better than anyone and can point you to spots based on conditions that day. Single and tandem kayaks available, plus SUPs.
Location: Multiple launch sites
$45-55 / half-dayAmelia Island Kayak Excursions
Great for guided eco-tours if you want local knowledge. Their bioluminescent tours in summer are the real deal—they know exactly where to go for the best glow. Also offer fishing kayak setups.
Location: Downtown Fernandina
$65-95 / guided tourMain Beach Rentals
If you want to paddle the ocean side (calmer than you'd think on most days), this is your spot. They also rent beach gear, bikes, and chairs if you want to make a full day of it.
Location: Main Beach Park
$40-50 / half-dayWant a Guided Experience?
Browse our complete list of Amelia Island tours, including kayak eco-tours, bioluminescent paddles, and sunset cruises.
Browse All ToursBioluminescent Kayaking
This is the bucket-list paddle. From late May through September, the warm waters around Amelia Island light up with bioluminescent dinoflagellates—single-celled organisms that glow blue-green when disturbed. Every paddle stroke, every fish darting beneath your kayak, every mullet jumping leaves a trail of ethereal light.
When to Go
The glow is strongest on dark, moonless nights when water temps are above 75°F. July and August are peak months. Most outfitters run tours starting around 8:30-9pm when it's fully dark.
Where to See It
The protected creeks around Egan's Creek and the marshes behind Tiger Island tend to have the best concentrations. Guided tours know the hot spots and adjust locations based on recent conditions.
Guided vs. DIY
Honestly? Book a guided tour your first time. The outfitters know where the plankton are concentrated (it varies night to night), they time everything to avoid the moonlight, and paddling in the dark through unfamiliar waters is asking for trouble. After you've been once, you'll know what you're looking for if you want to go solo.
Kayak Fishing
The grass flats and oyster bars around Amelia Island are redfish and trout heaven, and a kayak gets you into skinny water the boats can't touch. Several local outfitters offer fishing kayak rentals with rod holders, anchor systems, and tackle storage.
What You'll Catch
Redfish are the main attraction—slot fish (18-27") are common in the fall. Spotted seatrout hang in the deeper grass edges. Flounder stack up near structure. Summer brings jack crevalle that'll tow your kayak around.
Gear Setup
Medium-light spinning rod, 10-15lb braided line, and a handful of soft plastics (gold spoon, white paddle tail, DOA shrimp) will cover 90% of situations. Bring a landing net—trying to lip a redfish while balancing a kayak doesn't end well.
For more fishing intel, check our complete Amelia Island Fishing Guide.
Best Time to Kayak
Spring (Mar-May)
Ideal conditions. Warm but not hot, low humidity, calm winds. Migrating birds everywhere.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Hot and humid. Go early morning or evening. Bioluminescence season. Watch for afternoon storms.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Best overall season. Cooler temps, great fishing, fewer crowds. Hurricane season until November.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Manatee season in the creeks. Can be cold and windy. Best midday when temps peak.
Time of Day
Early morning (before 9am) offers glassy water, active wildlife, and no crowds. Sunset paddles are beautiful but can get buggy near the marshes. Midday works fine in spring and fall but avoid it in summer—heat exhaustion on the water is real.
What to Bring
Essentials: Water (more than you think), sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, dry bag for phone/keys. Most rentals include PFDs and paddles.
Nice to Have: Waterproof phone case, GoPro or waterproof camera, snacks, bug spray, light rain jacket (summer storms appear fast).
Skip: Cotton clothes (stick to moisture-wicking), flip-flops (water shoes or Chacos are way better for slippery launches), heavy coolers (throw some ice in a dry bag instead).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to kayak on Amelia Island?
No, beginners do great here. Protected creeks like Egan's Creek Greenway offer calm water and easy navigation. Most rental outfitters provide basic instruction.
Are there alligators in the kayaking areas?
Yes, particularly in freshwater and brackish areas like Lofton Creek. They're generally not aggressive but keep your distance and don't feed them. Saltwater areas have fewer gators.
When is the best time for bioluminescent kayaking?
Late May through September, with July-August being peak. Book a tour on a moonless or new moon night for the best glow. Tours typically start after 9pm.
How much does it cost to rent a kayak on Amelia Island?
Single kayak rentals run $40-55 for a half day, $60-80 for a full day. Tandem kayaks cost about $15-20 more. Guided tours range from $65-95 per person.
Can I bring my own kayak to Amelia Island?
Absolutely. There are multiple free public launch points including Egan's Creek Greenway, Fort Clinch State Park, and the downtown marina area. Most have parking nearby.
Is kayaking safe during summer storms?
Get off the water immediately if you see lightning or dark clouds building. Summer storms can appear quickly. Check the forecast and plan to be done paddling by early afternoon.