Amelia Island: Lofton Creek Kayak Tour with Local Wildlife

Summary

Lofton Creek’s calm waters bring you close to turtles, cypress trees, and that soft hush of wild Florida you can’t fake

You’ll paddle calm blackwater on Lofton Creek with a local guide who knows every twist of the riverbank. Expect close-up wildlife moments—turtles surfacing, woodpeckers drumming—and plenty of easy laughter along the way. Kayak, gear, life jacket and photos are all included so you can just show up ready to drift into another world for a few hours.

What’s the experience like?

I was already half-soaked from the paddle splash by the time our guide, Jamie, pointed out a big pileated woodpecker hammering away up in the cypress. We’d barely pushed off from the bank near Yulee when I realized how quiet it gets on Lofton Creek—just a low hum of insects and this sweet earthy smell coming off the water. The creek is dark, almost like tea (Jamie said it’s from tannins in the leaves), and it slides under your kayak so slow you forget about tides or wind. There was a little kid in our group who kept calling out every time he saw a turtle head pop up. I didn’t expect to laugh so much.

The forest here feels old—like really old. Jamie told us Native Americans fished these waters long before any Europeans showed up, which made me look at the banks differently. Sometimes we’d drift past wild azaleas or tangled pickerelweed, and once I thought I heard an otter splash but never actually saw it. The sun kept flickering between clouds and Spanish moss. There’s this moment where you round a bend and suddenly it’s just you, the water, and some bird giving you side-eye from a branch. It’s not dramatic but it sticks with you.

I tried to say “anhinga” right after Jamie pointed one out drying its wings—definitely butchered it; she laughed anyway. We didn’t see any manatees that day (apparently they show up sometimes), but we did spot a red-shouldered hawk perched above us for what felt like ages. By the end my arms were tired in that good way, and I still think about how peaceful everything felt out there. If you’re looking for something loud or fast-paced, this isn’t it—but if you want to just float through real Florida for a while… well.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lofton Creek Kayak Tour experience

• Arrive at Lofton Creek wetlands
• Explore calm blackwater channel
• Observe unique plants and wildlife
• Paddle through forested wetlands
• Experience old south bayou ecosystem

Top questions

Is the Lofton Creek kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, the tour is perfect for beginners and even children. The creek is calm and guides help everyone feel comfortable.

What kind of wildlife might I see on this Amelia Island kayak tour?

You may spot turtles, alligators, snakes, otters, pileated woodpeckers, hawks, anhingas (“water turkey”), and sometimes manatees.

How long does the Lofton Creek kayak tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect a relaxed pace suitable for families and beginners.

Is equipment provided on this kayak tour?

Yes—kayak, paddle, life jacket (PFD), and complimentary photography are all included.

Where does the Lofton Creek kayak tour start?

The tour starts near Yulee in Florida’s forested wetlands close to Amelia Island.

Do I need to be very fit for this kayaking experience?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended but no advanced skills are required.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a kayak with paddle and life jacket (PFD), guidance from fun local experts who know every curve of Lofton Creek, plus complimentary photography so you don’t have to worry about snapping pictures while paddling along.