Rock Springs: Glass Bottom Kayak Eco Tour & Swimming

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Duration2h 30m

GroupUp to 10

LanguagesEN

Mobile ticketAccepted

Kayak through emerald waters and swim in Rock Springs with local wildlife all around

You’ll paddle clear-bottom kayaks along Rock Springs’ blue-green waters with a local guide, stopping to swim or try a rope swing if you want. Expect wildlife sightings—turtles, birds, maybe even otters—and plenty of chances for photos. The upstream stretch can be a workout but floating back is pure ease. You’ll leave with wet hair and probably a new favorite memory.

2h 30m

Step-by-step itinerary

Guided Glass Bottom Kayak Tour

Start tour at King's Landing
Paddle into Emerald Cut waterway
Observe greenish-blue water and tree canopies
Optional jump from hidden platform
Continue kayaking upstream to Rock Springs headspring
Stop for photos and wildlife viewing
Enjoy swimming in spring water
Coast back gently to launch point
Learn about local nature and wildlife

The Experience

Ever wondered what it’s like to see straight down into Florida’s clearest water while you’re actually floating on it? That was the first thing I thought when we pushed off from King’s Landing in these see-through kayaks. Our guide, Casey, gave us a quick rundown on paddling (I still managed to zigzag a bit), but honestly, once you’re out there, it’s hard to care about looking silly. The water in Rock Springs is this almost unreal blue-green—like someone turned up the color dial—and you can spot fish darting under your feet before you even realize you’re moving.

The group was small enough that we could hear Casey point out an egret stalking lunch along the bank, and later he told us about the otters that sometimes pop up if you’re lucky (we didn’t see them this time—maybe next). There was this moment where everything went quiet except for paddles dipping and some birds arguing overhead. I remember drifting under a canopy of trees where the sunlight looked all broken up on the water. At one stop, people jumped in—yep, it’s cold—and someone tried the rope swing. I chickened out but laughed watching others splash down.

Paddling upstream toward Emerald Cut took more effort than I expected (my arms are still reminding me), but coasting back felt like floating. We saw turtles sunbathing and even caught a glimpse of a deer peeking through the brush. Casey shared stories about how the springs have always been part of local life here—he grew up nearby, so he knew all these little details about the plants and why the water stays so clear year-round. On the way back, I kept glancing down through the kayak just to watch tiny fish scatter as we passed. It’s weirdly calming.

What’s included

Your day includes use of clear tandem kayaks with all gear provided, basic paddle instruction from your local guide before heading out from King’s Landing, plus multiple stops for swimming or photos along Rock Springs’ emerald waters—with plenty of chances to spot wildlife like turtles or otters as you go.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Get Up And Go Kayaking