Best places to go kayaking

Forget the party at home, try something new this weekend

By Justin Young | Sun-Sentinel

You don't have to drive for hours or head into the wild to enjoy a kayak outing. In South Florida, there are neighborhood kayaking spots that are close to home and give you a new view of the area. Here are nine great urban kayak outings:

Coastal Biscayne Bay

There are several ways to kayak Biscayne Bay -- either via a tour or a self-guided rental. Guided tours can bring kayakers to historic sights from Madonna's former residence to the Vizcaya mansion. You can also enjoy the splendor of the natural sandbar off the coast or the Sister and Grove Islands as well as man-made attractions like canals and bridges. Kayak rentals at Crandon Park allow you to explore the Bear Cut area, the channel that separates the northern tip of Key Biscayne from Virginia Key. In the bay, you might see sting rays, tropical fish and, if you are lucky, an occasional dolphin or manatee. Snorkeling is also offered with tours from the county park at the Crandon Marina.

Where to rent boats or book a tour

Sailboards Miami

When: By appointment, call ahead

Where: Located on the causeway to Key Biscayne, less than a half mile after the toll booth.

Contact: (305) 361-7245

Crandon Park, 4000 Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne, at the concession area at the Visitor and Nature Center

When: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday and Sundays or weekdays by prior arrangement

Contact: (305) 365-3018

Whiskey Creek, Dania Beach

Once a lifeline for illegal prohibition-era liquor bootlegging (hence the clever name) it is now a hotspot for kayakers. Not only is the lush nature-lined, two and a half mile route a lovely paddle, but it is shallow, calm and easy enough for beginners to navigate without a guide. John U. Lloyd State Park, where the creek is located, also offers kayak rentals and a concession stand.

Where to rent boats

John U. Lloyd Beach State Park

6503 N. Ocean Drive, Dania Beach

(954) 923-2833

Who runs tours?

Full Moon Kayak Company

When: Appointment, call ahead