The tidal creeks, salt marshes, and estuaries of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve offer some of the best sea kayaking in northeast Florida. The waterways are sheltered, the current is manageable for intermediate paddlers, and the wildlife is abundant — bottlenose dolphins are commonly seen in the deeper channels, manatees in summer, osprey and bald eagles overhead, and herons and egrets wading in the shallows.
Several outfitters near Fort George Island and Mayport offer kayak and paddleboard rentals and guided tours. The Spanish Pond area and Myrtle Creek on Little Talbot Island are the most popular put-in points. Half-day and full-day guided tours are available and worth considering for first-timers who want to navigate the maze of creeks without getting lost.