Regional Guide

It's the classic South Florida adventure: Paddling the Everglades. And with good reason. The 1.5-million-acre patch of saw grass marsh features the most extensive warm water paddling area in the United States. Head to the Nine Mile Loop for a five-mile tour that offers a peek into several area environments in one tidy loop.

For an in-depth view of the famed River of Grass, head to Flamingo, on Florida's southern tip, and embark on a five-day journey north along the park's western edge to Everglades City. This Everglades adventure serves up everything from the wide-open waters of the Gulf and natural beaches to snake-like creeks.

More on Everglades paddling

Paddle Ten Thousand Islands. Head to Everglades City on the northern shore of Chokoloskee Bay for direct access to the famed area on the Gulf Coast.

Head to Ding Darling, off Florida's west coast on Sanibel Island, and Loxahatchee, in the Northern Everglades. Both areas offer canoe trails with outstanding birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Two canoe trails take paddlers through red mangrove forests and prime wildlife viewing areas.

Move water in Biscayne National Park. With 95 percent of the park covered in water, it's a natural destination for paddlers. Get out and kayak the park and its small keys. Don't forget your snorkel—it's crystal-clear waters and offshore reefs are ideal for the sport.

Paddle from Captiva to Buck Key on South Florida's Gulf Coast. Once you've had your fill of Captiva, head to the sea grass meadows of Buck Key and explore the uninhabited island's arching red mangroves and bayou.