Paddleboarding in Florida is a dream; sunshine, still water, and that perfect weather. But it’s also quite literally the wild. You’re not just sharing the water with fish, turtles, and the occasional curious bird… you’re sharing it with alligators, especially if you’re in freshwater.

Recently, a tragic story out of Lake Kissimmee reminded us just how serious a gator attack can be. If you don’t know the story, a woman was canoeing when an alligator attacked her. She didn’t survive, and my heart breaks for her family. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that Florida’s waterways are not just Instagrammable; they’re home to some very real wildlife. And if you’re paddleboarding (like me), it’s time we talk about how to stay safe, stay smart, and still enjoy the ride.

1. Choose Your Paddling Areas Wisely

I know we all want that quiet, untouched, “secret spot” vibe for paddleboarding, but some places are better left to the gators. Avoid small, murky lakes or rivers during gator mating season (typically May to June), when they’re more territorial and aggressive.

Stick to clear, open water where visibility is high,  you can’t see a gator’s full body in murky water, and trust me, if one’s nearby, you want to see it coming. Don’t paddle into overgrown or narrow inlets where a gator could be hiding. Gators blend into their environment really well, and paddling right up on one could turn a chill day into a very dangerous one.

2. Don’t Feed the Gators (Seriously)

I shouldn’t have to say this, but here we are. Feeding alligators makes them associate humans with food, and that’s when things get scary. A fed gator loses its natural fear of people, and a fearless gator is a bold, aggressive one. If you see someone feeding gators, speak up or report it. You’re not just protecting wildlife, you’re protecting everyone who shares that water.

3. Don’t Paddle Over Submerged Objects

What looks like a log might be a gator. Passing directly over one can startle it, leading to defensive behavior. Always steer clear of floating debris or submerged shapes

4. Stay Alert and Avoid Dawn or Dusk

Gators are most active at dawn and dusk. Plan your outings for midday when visibility is better, and they’re less active.

5. Gator Moms Don’t Play

If you ever see baby gators? Turn around. Immediately. Mama gators are extremely protective, and they will lunge to defend their babies without hesitation. They don’t care if you’re on a board, in a kayak, or just floating. If you’re close to her nest or her babies, you’re a threat.

At the End of the Day…

Florida is wild. That’s part of what makes paddleboarding here so unique, but it’s also why we have to respect the wildlife we’re paddling through. Be smart, be aware, and know when to say no to a launch spot. We can enjoy the beauty of Florida’s waters without risking our safety.