Marianna: Clear Kayak Eco Tour & Springs with Cave Swim

Summary

Clear kayaks glide past cypress trees and limestone bluffs in marianna

You’ll paddle a clear kayak through Marianna’s springs with a local guide, weaving between limestone bluffs and cypress trees. Swim into chilly underwater caves if you’re brave (or just watch!), spot turtles and fish below your feet, and listen for woodpeckers or herons overhead. It’s a day for anyone who loves wild places — and you’ll leave feeling lighter somehow.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water this clear?” That’s what our guide, Jamie, asked as we pushed off from the bank in Marianna. I just shook my head — you could actually see your toes wiggling through the bottom of the kayak. The limestone bluffs rose up on both sides, all pale and rough, while cypress knees poked out like knobby old fingers. It smelled like wet leaves and something sharp, almost mineral. I kept drifting off course because I was too busy looking down for turtles (saw two!) and trying to spot those fossilized shark teeth Jamie mentioned.

We paddled slow — no rush, just letting the current do half the work. Jamie pointed out a woodpecker hammering away above us and told us how these springs feed into Blue Springs Recreational Park. At one point, she stopped us near an opening in the rock. “Swim if you want,” she grinned, so we did — that first shock of cold water hit hard but it felt good after paddling under the sun. I tried to peek into one of those little underwater caves but chickened out halfway; someone else went all the way in and came up laughing like a kid. There were fish everywhere, flashes of silver darting under our clear kayaks.

I didn’t expect to feel so small next to those cliffs or to hear so many birds — cardinals arguing somewhere behind us, herons gliding low over the water. We passed by Florida Caverns State Park too; Jamie had stories about people getting lost in there (she swears it’s true). The whole thing took maybe three hours? Time got weird out there — you forget about your phone until you realize your hands are pruny from swimming.

By the end I was hungry and tired in that good way you get after being outside all day. Still think about that cold spring water on my skin sometimes when I’m stuck at my desk. If you’re anywhere near Destin or Marianna, this clear kayaking tour is worth it — especially if you want something more than just another beach day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Clear Kayaking and Nature Exploration

• Meet your guide
• Paddle among limestone bluffs and cypress trees
• Discover underwater caves
• Swim in refreshing springs
• Observe fish, turtles, and wildlife
• Listen to guide's facts and bird calls
• Pass by Florida Caverns State Park
• Pass by Blue Springs Recreational Park

Top questions

Where does the clear kayaking eco tour in Marianna start?

The tour starts near Marianna, outside Destin, Florida—exact address provided after booking.

Are guides included on the Marianna clear kayak tour?

Yes, a local guide leads every tour and shares facts about wildlife and springs.

Can you swim during the clear kayaking eco adventure?

Yes, there are spots where guests can swim into refreshing springs and underwater caves.

What wildlife might you see on this Marianna kayak tour?

You might spot fish, turtles, crawfish, birds like heron or woodpeckers, and even fossilized shark teeth.

Is equipment provided for the Marianna clear kayak tour?

All kayaks (clear), life jackets, paddles, seats, and dry bags are included in your booking.

How long does the clear kayaking tour last?

The experience usually takes around three hours total.

Is parking included at the starting point?

Yes, parking fees are covered as part of your booking.

Is this eco adventure suitable for kids?

Yes—children can join but must ride with an adult; infants sit on an adult’s lap.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a 100% clear kayak with paddles and life jackets (plus dry bags for your stuff), guided by someone who knows these springs inside out. Parking fees are covered too—just show up ready to paddle (and maybe swim) before heading home tired but happy.