A Fall Guide to Silver Springs Wildlife: Monkeys to Manatees
It’s always a great time of year to experience clear kayaking at Silver Springs, though fall is hard to beat. The crowds thin out, the weather cools down, and the wildlife becomes the real highlight of every paddle. From migratory birds and playful monkeys to the return of gentle manatees in late fall, a clear kayak guided tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking in Silver Springs, Florida is the perfect way to see it all.
Why Fall Is Special at Silver Springs
Florida’s fall season isn’t like other parts of the country. The trees around Silver Springs hold a mix of green and golden tones, and the weather hovers in that sweet spot of warm days and cooler mornings. It makes paddling comfortable, especially when compared to the heat of summer. Another bonus is that the water is always crystal clear so you can look straight through to see fish and turtles and more beneath your kayak.
On top of that, fall brings fewer crowds. Summer is busy, but once school is back in session, the river feels more peaceful. That quiet setting makes it easier to spot wildlife and enjoy the sights without distraction, making for beautiful peaceful paddles.
Wildlife You’ll See in Fall at Silver Springs
Silver Springs is famous for its abundance of wildlife, and fall is one of the best times to experience it up close. On a guided clear kayaking tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking-silver Springs, your guide will point out the many species that live in and around the river:
- Birds: Great blue herons, ibis, and osprey are a few. You’ll also see anhingas drying their wings on branches after a dive. Their long necks and sharp beaks make them look like something out of prehistoric times.
- Fish: Blue Tilapia, Sunfish and gar can be seen swimming in the clear water.
- Turtles: Dozens of turtles line up on fallen logs to soak up the sun. They’re easy to spot as you glide by.
- Monkeys: Wild rhesus macaque monkeys live in and around Silver Springs State Park. Fall is a good time to catch more sightings of them as they come out when the crowds lesson.
Manatee Season Begins in November
One of the biggest highlights of late fall is the return of the manatees. These gentle giants migrate into the springs when the Gulf and river waters start to cool down. Because the springs stay a steady 72 degrees year-round, manatees come here for warmth and safety.
November 15th is the official start of Manatee Season though you may see manatees swimming beneath your clear kayak or grazing on aquatic plants earlier than that. A guided tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking-Silver Springs ensures you have the best chance of spotting them while also following safe and respectful viewing practices. Our guides are all Manatee Certified.
Why Choose a Guided Clear Kayak Tour
You could paddle Silver Springs on your own, but a guided tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking offers so much more. We have the best local guides who know where wildlife tends to gather and all the knowledge on species you see. They share stories about the park’s history along with fun facts, and help you notice details you might otherwise miss. They even share pictures and videos at the end of your tour.
Fall weather, calmer waters, and the chance to see both regular wildlife and the start of manatee season make this the perfect time to book. Whether you’re local or visiting, a guided tour is an unforgettable way to experience nature.
Plan Your Fall Kayak Adventure
Ready to see the magic of Silver Springs this fall? Join us for a clear kayaking guided tour and experience wildlife, manatees, and the peaceful beauty of the season. Spots fill quickly during manatee season, so reserve your adventure today: