DELAND KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Weekend Paddling out of DeLand: Single and Double Kayak Options from Holly Bluff Marina
A 56‑hour weekend paddling experience based in DeLand, Florida — this guide outlines what to expect, where you meet, and the equipment choices available.
Weekend Paddling out of DeLand: Single and Double Kayak Options from Holly Bluff Marina.
Adventure brief
Weekend Paddling out of DeLand: Single and Double Kayak Options from Holly Bluff Marina
Kayaks and Paddleboards - Weekend is a weekend‑length paddling experience operated by Holly Bluff Marina in DeLand, Florida, offering single and double kayak options for paddlers who want a compact, over‑the‑weekend escape.
Situated on the tranquil shores of the St. Johns River near DeLand, Florida, Holly Bluff Marina offers a refreshing water-based adventure through its Weekend Kayaks and Paddleboards experience. This getaway combines accessible paddling with the lush, subtropical landscapes of one of Florida’s lesser-known natural gems. The St. Johns River is the longest in Florida, winding through marshes, hardwood forests, and communities—a ribbon of freshwater rich with local wildlife and scenic variety.
Holly Bluff Marina stands out for providing both single and tandem kayak options alongside stable paddleboards, catering to beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Over a full weekend, paddlers can immerse themselves in the slow rhythms of the river, gliding past cypress knees and palmetto clusters, with frequent sightings of herons, ospreys, and the occasional manatee nearby. The calm river sections make it an ideal family-friendly experience, but it also offers enough diversity in waterways to satisfy adventure seekers looking to cover springs, bays, and quiet coves.
What truly sets Holly Bluff apart in this area is its seamless blend of laid-back river access with professional gear rentals, comprehensive safety briefings, and attentive on-site staff ready to help tailor trips for individual skill levels. The marina's strategic location close to DeLand means paddlers can combine outdoor time with the charm of a thriving small city known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene.
Visitors should plan to arrive at 2280 Hontoon Road, where the marina serves as a gateway to exploring miles of diverse aquatic terrain. Whether seeking a relaxed nature outing or a moderately paced paddleboard and kayak weekend, Holly Bluff Marina offers a balanced, approachable adventure deeply connected to Florida’s unique river landscape.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and key stops
The weekend centers on a marina meeting and a series of on‑water sessions with return to base for each launch.
Holly Bluff Marina — meeting & launch
Participants gather and prepare for launch at the marina located at 2280 Hontoon Road in DeLand.
On‑water paddling sessions
Structured paddling segments over the course of the weekend using single or double kayaks, sequenced from the marina launches.
Return to marina & pack‑down
Each on‑water period concludes with a return to Holly Bluff Marina for debrief and equipment stowage.
This is an active, weekend‑length paddling program; participants should plan for repeated on‑water sessions and confirm any personal restrictions or limits with the operator ahead of time.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A concentrated 56‑hour weekend
The program unfolds over a 56‑hour weekend window, centered on short‑form paddling and on‑site logistics managed from the marina.
Single and double kayak choices
Participants choose between single or double kayak configurations, allowing solo paddlers and pairs to match craft to comfort and experience.
Launched from Holly Bluff Marina
The marina at the program’s base serves as the meeting and launch point for the weekend paddling arrangements.
What the day feels like
What the weekend feels like
Over a concentrated 56‑hour schedule, the weekend centers on on‑water time launched from Holly Bluff Marina in DeLand, with participants selecting single or double kayaks to shape their paddling rhythm.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this weekend suits — and who should check with the operator first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a weekend program spanning 56 hours in total; confirm exact start and end times with the operator at booking.
Options include single and double kayaks; consult the operator for any required personal kit or recommended items before arrival.
The on‑site meeting location for launches is at 2280 Hontoon Road, DeLand, FL — use this address for arrival and check‑in.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do we meet for the weekend paddling program?
Meet at Holly Bluff Marina, 2280 Hontoon Road, DeLand, FL 32720.
How long is the Kayaks and Paddleboards - Weekend experience?
The program runs for 56 hours in total.
Who operates the weekend paddling program?
The experience is operated by Holly Bluff Marina.
Are single and double kayaks available?
Yes — the weekend offers single and double kayak options.
Is this a weekday or weekend offering?
The program is presented as a weekend experience in the official title.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:46.582Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.