kayaking for beginner?

Hi

We are traveling next week to the Keys and I would love to kayak through the mangroves at John Pennekamp. However, I%26#39;ve never manned a kayak on my own before, and I%26#39;m a little timid. We did kayak in a two-man in San Diego, and it was really scary, very big waves! My partner is experienced, but I am not.

can i manage kayaking at Pennekamp, or should we do a two person Is that even an option? Is there a better time of day to go- morning, afternoon

thanks!

kayaking for beginner?

It is easier than you can possibly imagine! NO experience neccesary.

Many places here have sit on top kayaks - rather than where you put your legs inside. They are super stable, you can even stand in most. A small child can manage it.

We don%26#39;t have waves. Especially not in the mangroves.

Do a single kayak. I think you will enjoy a trip through the mangroves better than a double.

Best time of day? When the wind speed is the lowest - check local reports. Midday is best when the sun is right overhead and you can see in the water better.

kayaking for beginner?

Having kayaked this summer in Alaska, I understand your concern. But put it aside. Kayaking in the Keys is a breeze. No waves. Get your own kayak - saves lots of fights! If the day is really windy, you may want to pick another one.

I totally agree, compared to kayaking offshore here in southern California, the Keys mangroves were a piece of cake! The water was so shallow in Florida Bay last year we could have walked most of the way if we had to, but there was so much to see in that water!

If you want to try a tour with a guide instead, Florida Bay Outiftters will set you up, they do nice trips to Rattlesnake Key and other locations. I went with them last December and had a great afternoon out.

Happy paddling!

I also recommend the 1 person kayak. However my reason is because I was in the front and paddling like crazy, only to turn around and find my husband sitting with his paddle resting in his lap and enjoying the ride! It%26#39;s very calm in the mangrove area in Pennykamp, we did it with our boyscout troup, many who had never been in a kayak before. Early morning will be cooler %26amp; you will probably see more wildlife than in the heat of the day.

However - next week - heat of the day won%26#39;t be a concern!

I was trying to remember the name -FLorida Keys Outfitters - great operation and fantastic tours that you should consider.