HASTINGS KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddling Into Old-Florida Quiet: A Shaded Backwater Route Near St. Augustine
A two-hour, family-friendly eco paddle through the canopied Deep Creek Conservation Area—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how wildlife sightings shape the trip.
Paddling Into Old-Florida Quiet: A Shaded Backwater Route Near St. Augustine.
Embark on a Backwater Eco Tour through the Deep Creek Conservation Area, where shaded creek corridors hold gators, manatees and otters and the paddling remains approachable for beginners and families seeking a short escape from nearby St. Augustine.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Canopied, Shaded Creekways
Most of the route is shaded beneath a canopy that cools the paddle and frames the slow water—an environment that feels like stepping back into 'old Florida'.
Freshwater Residents: Gators, Otters, Manatees
Paddlers often encounter a range of freshwater species; alligators, otters and turtles are commonly seen, and manatees are present almost year‑round though they can be difficult to spot in murky backwaters.
A Close Freshwater Option Near St. Augustine
Located about a 20‑minute drive from downtown St. Augustine, this launch at Deep Creek offers one of the closest real freshwater kayak tours in the area.
What the day feels like
What the Paddle Feels Like
The tour begins at a roadside launch beneath the 207 bridge and unfolds as a gentle, two‑hour float through shaded creek channels. After a brief safety clinic and paddle check you set out into calm backwater, where slow current and overhanging trees create long sightlines for wildlife watching while keeping the effort accessible to beginners and families.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should call ahead.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Bring a change of clothes, water shoes or footwear that can get wet, a towel, extra water, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses and a smile.
Meet at the Deep Creek Launch in Hastings, FL (launch is beneath the 207 Bridge, just west of the 206 intersection).
Tours are fully refundable or reschedulable for weather events; cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour receive a full refund.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What happens if it rains?
Tours are fully refundable or reschedulable for any weather related events.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
As long as you let the operator know at least 24 hours before your tour, they will issue a full refund.
What wildlife might I see?
While many of the local animals are often seen—gators, otters, turtles and various waterfowl—the operator does not guarantee any specific sighting.
Are manatees present on this route?
Manatees are present almost year round in the area, though they can be hard to find in the murky backwaters.
Can I bring my dog on the tour?
The operator highly recommends you do NOT bring pets on this tour.