Kayaking In Kissimmee: The Paddling Center At Shingle Creek

I felt a bit like Huck Finn as we embarked on a journey at Shingle Creek in Kissimmee, Florida. Paddles in hand, my travel buddy and I gently kayaked through what seemed to be another realm. Lined with hundreds of towering cypress trees, the headwaters of the Everglades were incredibly serene — the kind of hidden gem I long for during my travels…

Majestic. That’s how I’d describe our experience at The Paddling Center At Shingle Creek. Well, that is, after we got the hang of our tandem kayak. I’ve ventured out on kayaks before, but it always takes a few minutes to sort out the balance with a new partner — especially knowing there were alligators below us! Let’s just say that I definitely felt more alert during our adventure. Also, I may or may not have joked about feeding my travel buddy to the gators…

With light piercing through the trees, bird songs amplifying off the creek and the occasional animal friend poking its head out to say hello (turtles, vultures, great egrets and yes – even a gator), we were transported to a natural oasis in a city mostly known for its proximity to the bustling theme parks. The property, once home to Seminole Indians and pioneer families, was the perfect escape from it all…

The Paddling Center At Shingle Creek offers single or tandem kayaking, SUP (stand up paddleboarding – an activity I recently tried) and canoeing. I was surprised at how reasonable the rates were: only $13/hr for single kayaks, $18/hr for SUP and $16/hr for tandem kayaks and canoes. A budget-friendly and healthy escape — love it! One thing to note: although basic paddling and safety instructions are provided, guides don’t actually come out with you on the water. You can, however, book them to accompany you — I’d recommend doing this if you’re travelling solo or with a young family. The creek is extremely calm, but it may give you piece of mind to have an expert along for the journey.

Our group had a wide range of experience kayaking so we did a self-guided exploration which ended up being quite hilarious at times. I felt like we were on reality TV with all the banter and rogue kayaks…

I’m happy to report that collisions were averted and many memories were made. Kayaking was also a great form of exercise after all the feasting we did at Epcot the day before. I’m surprised I didn’t sink our kayak with all the extra weight. Side note: paddling against the current proved to be quite a challenge, but the serene cypress forest was worth every stroke. If you’re ever in/near Kissimmee, I’d highly recommend the adventure: it’s a great way to break away from the crowds and experience Florida’s natural beauty.

A few tips:

• Bring a dry bag for your phones and cameras. The Paddling Center At Shingle Creek does have a few, but just in case they run out!
• Once you’re settled in the kayak/canoe head south toward the cypress forest. A member of our group went the other direction and said it wasn’t shaded and extremely hot.
• Pack a water bottle and some snacks.
• They often have group tours or special events (like a full moon paddle on the creek) so check out their calendar!
• Most importantly: make sure to pause and take it all in. It can be tempting to vigorously paddle the entire route, but the best part of Shingle Creek is its tranquility…

Our kayaking adventure was paid for by Experience Kissimmee as part of a press trip to Kissimmee, Florida. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.