Glass Bottom Kayaking at Rock Springs: Clear Kayaks in Florida

See straight through the kayak to the water below as you paddle

Glass bottom kayaking at Rock Springs in Florida is a guided 2- to 2.5-hour paddle in clear tandem kayaks through the spring-fed waterway, with instruction on paddle technique, multiple stops for wildlife viewing and photos, and the option to swim or use a rope swing. Groups stay small, up to 10 paddlers, and children from age 3 can participate when paired with an adult in the same kayak.

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 towards Rock Springs headspring
• Stop for pictures at scenic points
• Opportunity to get out and enjoy spring water
• Learn about local wildlife and nature
• Coast back gently to launch point

The experience

The tour starts at King's Landing and heads upstream into a section of Rock Springs Run called the Emerald Cut, where the water takes on a greenish-blue tint beneath tree canopies. Because the kayaks are 100% clear, you see straight down into the water column as you paddle: turtles, fish, and rays move below you without obstruction. A guide gives a quick instruction on basic paddle technique before you launch, then leads the group upstream toward the headspring. The first half of the paddle works against the current. The second half is a gentle drift back to the starting point.

Multiple stops break up the paddle so you can photograph wildlife, watch for alligators and otters, or simply float and listen. The guide shares facts about the local waterways and the animals you're likely to see (birds, deer, turtles, and more), and points out details most paddlers would miss. A hidden jump platform partway through gives anyone who wants it a chance to leap into the water, and there's a rope swing for extra fun. If you'd rather just cool off, you can stop and swim in the spring water itself, which stays around 72 degrees year-round.

Each kayak is a tandem built for two paddlers, though the seats are removable if your group has an odd number. Children as young as 3 can go, but they must sit on an adult's lap in the same kayak. Weight limits are 250 pounds per individual seat and 425 pounds per boat when two adults share it. The whole outing (instruction, paddle, stops and all) runs 2 to 2.5 hours depending on how fast the group moves and whether wildlife slows you down.

What’s included

• Use of a 100% clear kayak where you can see straight down into the water.
• instruction on basic paddle technique from the guide before you launch.
• a 2- to 2.5-hour guided paddle through Rock Springs Run, including the Emerald Cut section.
• multiple stops to photograph wildlife and take in the scenery.
• the chance to swim in the spring water or use a rope swing for a jump.
• and a small group of up to 10 paddlers for a more personalized experience.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day6 departure times: the first at 08:45, the last at 15:00

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (3 to 17 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Get Up And Go Kayaking

Is this one for you?The tour launches from King's Landing at Rock Springs, so if you're staying in the area without a car, confirm the pickup location when you book: public transportation options are available nearby. The small-group format and fixed 2.5-hour window mean you can plan the rest of your day around it without worrying about timing or finding your own way to the water.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 17 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What animals might I see while paddling through Rock Springs?

Turtles, birds, fish, otters, deer, and alligators all live in and around Rock Springs Run. The guide points out where to look and shares facts about each species as you paddle, though sightings depend on the time of day and season.

What is the Emerald Cut and why does the water look that color?

The Emerald Cut is a section of Rock Springs Run where the water takes on a striking greenish-blue tint, created by the depth and mineral content of the spring water and the tree canopies overhead. It's the first part of your paddle, heading upstream from King's Landing toward the headspring.

Do I need paddling experience to book this tour?

No experience is required. The guide gives instruction on basic paddle technique before the tour starts, and the group pace is set by the slowest paddler so everyone stays comfortable. You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

Can I swim or jump into the water during the tour?

Yes. There are multiple chances to get out and enjoy the spring water, including a hidden jump platform partway through the paddle and a rope swing. You can also stop to swim at other points if you want to cool off.

How many people paddle in each group?

Groups stay small, a maximum of 10 paddlers, so the experience feels personalized and the guide can keep track of everyone. Each kayak holds two people, so a group of 10 means five boats.