The Weeki Wachee River

Spring Hill, FL

The Weeki Wachee River is the one of the most amazing rivers in the world! Located an hour north of Tampa, it’s a place you must visit.

THE RIVER

The Weeki Wachee River begins at the spring head located at Weeki Wachee State Park and eventually reaches the Gulf of Mexico. The spring is formed from an underground river and produces 150 million gallons of water a day. The water temperature remains at a constant 72 degrees year round and is crystal clear. The typical paddling route is 5.5 miles long and ends at Rogers Park.

THE BEST FLORIDA BEACHES FOR CRYSTAL CLEAR WATER

KAYAKING & SUP CONDITIONS

Due to the amount of water flowing down a narrow river, the Weeki Wachee produces a pretty strong current. Consequently, paddling against the current can be difficult. On the other hand, cruising downstream with the current can be a joy! The trickiest part is navigating the corners of the river.

THE RULES

Only kayaks and stand up paddle boards are allowed within the state park boundary. After that, motor boats and swimming are also allowed. In addition, alcohol isn’t allowed on the river and food and beverages must utilize non-disposable packaging.

ANOTHER AMAZING FLORIDA RIVER FOR BOATING

BOATING

Boating is allowed outside of the state park boundary. The river is very narrow and extremely shallow in spots therefore, it’s best to use a Jon boat or small skiff to navigate. It’s also very crowded, making boating almost unsafe at times. That being said, the Weeki Wachee River is one of the nicest places to explore by small boat.

NEARBY BOAT RAMPS

The two closest boat ramps to use when launching on the Weeki Wachee are Rogers Park and Bayport Park.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO OF MY DAY ON THE WEEKI WACHEE RIVER

KAYAKS, SUPS AND BOAT RENTALS

There are three places to rent from on the river. The first is Weeki Wachee State Park, the second is The Kayak Shack and the third is the Weeki Wachee Marina. Weeki Wachee Marina is where you can rent boats. If you want to explore the entire river and encounter less traffic, I would rent a kayak from the State Park.

IMPORTANT UPDATE

As of March of 2021 the official kayak rentals at Weeki Wachee State Park (Fresh Water Adventures) has shortened its’ kayak distance and time to 2.8 miles and 2 hours respectively. It’s a huge change and if you’re not aware of it you’ll likely be disappointed. The only other ways to see the entire river is to launch your own kayak at Weeki Wachee State Park (reservations still required and you’ll also be responsible for your own transportation back to your car), or use The Kayak Shack and paddle against the current for a while.

I utilize the service and benefits of Boat U.S. They are a great organization that every boater should consider. You should too. Click HERE to learn more.