About this Event
Paddle around real monkeys at Monkey Island, then up to several riverfront bars and restaurants, each with their own unique flare. Quench your thirst with cold adult bevis, and enjoy lunch with live music. Trip photos always included!
Located just 1.5 hours west of Orlando, we’ll launch on the beautiful Homosassa River, abundant with manatees, birds, fish, turtles, and bordered by palm, cypress and oak trees. You'll be greeted by your friendly guides, given paddleboard instruction if needed, and outfitted with quality paddleboard gear. The site has nice restrooms and a dock/ramp launch.
Once ready, we'll begin at Monkey Bar overlooking Monkey Island - yes, there are real monkeys! Watch them swing and play while enjoying your first drink (their mimosas are highly recommended) with a birds eye view of the river from the second floor balcony!
Then we'll launch our boards and paddle around Monkey Island, with an upclose view of the three spider monkey residents - complete with an airconditioned cottage, lighthouse, and playground! It's a great spot for a photo op too!
Paddling upriver taking in the scenic surroundings and seeking wildlife, our second stop is nestled back through a narrow, wooded canal. It's dotted with unique small homes and houseboats with lots of river character. At the end is Manatee Pub - the perfect divey spot with dollar bills decorating the walls, cold beer, a pool table, and cash only service.
Next, we'll cross to the opposite shoreline and head downriver to dock at Krump's Landing. This sprawling establishment has a sandy beach with adirondack chairs, 2 huge shaded tiki bars, and live music! Here we can enjoy full liquor and lunch service to satisfy our paddle-induced appetites.
Looping back we'll take out at Florida Cracker where you can choose to hang as long as you want to enjoy the scenery and good vibes, as this is the last stop on our tour. It's also conveniently located at Florida Cracker Resort where you can responsibly stay the night, enjoying the pool and two restaurants for just $150/night (book in advance as they fill up fast).
What's Included:
- All Stand Up Paddleboard Gear (quality and fitted to you)
- 6 hour Guided Paddle Tour with experienced and certified guides/instructors
- Launch fees ($10 value)
- SUP Instruction
- Trip Photos
Other Ticket Options Include:
- BYOBoard/Paddle Craft for a discount. All paddlecraft are welcome.
Paddle Skill Level: All Levels. Instruction provided for beginners. Must know how to swim.
Age: 21+
Bring: Water, towel, dry bag, cash (one pub is cash only)/CC/ID, dry change of clothes. If you're bringing your own paddle craft, a life vest and whistle are required by law.
Wear: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (with straps), apparel that is easy to move in and can get wet (like dry wicking workout clothes or swimwear), sandals/shoes that can get wet wet and a cover up to wear inside of establishments.
Parking: Turn into Florida Cracker and make a right toward the dirt parking lot. Go left and park closest to the kayak launch. You'll find us at the picnic table near the ramp and docks. If you're bringing your own board, you can unload next to the docks before parking.
Guide: Jessica Cichra is a SUP enthusiast that has been actively paddle touring, racing, surfing, and instructing since 2009. She is the founder of Wave of Wellness, a company with a mission to empower clients through adventurous activities that enhance all areas of well-being with a focus on travel, SUP, yoga, and community. Jessica guides paddle tours in the greater Orlando area and internationally on adventure travel retreats.
Tips are highly appreciated if you believe your instruction, service, and experience to be exceptional!
IMPORTANT: In the event of inclement weather, you will be notified via Eventbrite email at least 3 hours prior to start time of a reschedule. We only reschedule so your experience will be safe and enjoyable.
*Our route and bars visited are subject to change according to weather conditions.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Florida Cracker Riverside Resort, 5297 South Cherokee Way, Homosassa, United States
USD 49.87 to USD 65.87
