Grab a paddle and explore the Gulf waters off Big Pine Key
An evening paddle in the Lower Florida Keys promises sensational sunset viewing and an opportunity to get up close with nature. You won’t find a more prime spot than on the tranquil water flowing under the No Name Key bridge, a few strokes from Big Pine Key Adventures’ launch at the Old Wooden Bridge Fish Camp on Big Pine Key. Choose a red, yellow or blue kayak, strap on a vest and push off into the shallow waters on the edge of Boggie Channel. From here, you can go east toward the Atlantic Ocean or west into the Gulf of Mexico. You can also paddle across the channel to No Name Key’s shore for a close up look at the red mangrove’s prop roots and water fowl foraging at dusk.
More experienced kayakers can explore on their own with a self-guided kayak chart that’s provided. Those looking for a tour can join Capt. Bill Keogh, his dog Scupper and fellow kayakers for the sunset paddle. A naturalist guide and professional photographer, Keogh has been paddling these waters for more than two decades. He can answer all your questions about the long-legged egrets and great white herons that frequent the Florida Keys and the majestic ospreys soaring above, as well as the sea grass waving below and the fish flitting through it. And if the sunset tour leaves you eager to travel more of the waterways, Big Pine Kayak Adventures also offers kayak fishing and backcountry tours.
