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Rainbow Springs, one of Florida’s most stunning natural gems, offers two distinct ways to explore its crystal-clear waters: tubing and kayaking. While both activities provide a way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and refreshing spring water, they offer vastly different experiences. However, if you’re looking for the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the river, kayaking is our favorite choice! Here’s what you need to know before booking your adventure.

Tubing at Rainbow Springs

Tubing down the Rainbow River is a leisurely, laid-back experience perfect for those looking to relax and float along the gentle current. Here’s what to expect:

1. Duration & Distance
   Tubing duration and distance depend on the location you choose to launch from. Some routes take between 1.5 hours, others 4 hours. The designated tubing run is also dependent on where you launch from and covers specific sections of the river.
2. Accessibility & Cost
   The tubing entrance is separate from the main state park entrance and requires a fee. Rentals are available for tubes, or you can bring your own (as long as it meets park regulations). However, tubing has a maximum capacity, and on busy days, the parks may stop allowing new visitors once it reaches that limit.
3. Experience Level
   No experience is required! Tubing is great for families, groups, or solo visitors who just want to float and soak up the scenery.
4. Rules & Restrictions
   For safety and conservation purposes, alcohol, disposable containers, and pets are not allowed. The park enforces these rules to help keep the Rainbow River pristine.
5. Best Time to Go
   Summer weekends can be busy, so arriving early or visiting on a weekday is best for a more peaceful experience.

Kayaking at Rainbow Springs – The Ultimate Adventure!

For those who want a more interactive and adventurous way to explore the river, kayaking is the ideal choice. Here’s why you should book a clear kayaking tour:

1. Duration & Distance
   Kayaking tours are typically 2 hours, providing a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Get Up And Go Kayaking offers guided clear kayak tours at Rainbow Springs where you will paddle upstream towards the headspring, with a scenic stop at Indian Creek, before enjoying a peaceful float back to the launch. The guided tours provide the best routes and insights for an unforgettable experience.
2. Accessibility & Cost
   Guided kayak tours ensure a safe and informative experience led by the best expert guides without any worrying on your part. Tours are offered multiple times to choose from throughout the day and unlike tubing, our kayaking tours will still continue even if the parks are at capacity, allowing you to enjoy the water without restrictions. By booking your kayak tour ahead of time, this allows you a guaranteed adventure on Rainbow River even during the busiest times of year!
3. Experience Level
   Kayaking at Rainbow Springs is considered an intermediate paddle. While beginners can kayak here with guidance, some paddling experience is helpful to navigate when paddling against the current. Our guides provide safety guidelines, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience through the beautiful clear waters. Also as a bonus the guides at Get Up And Go Kayaking will even take photos of you throughout your tour, so you can capture the endless memories you’ll make on Rainbow River.
4. Wildlife & Scenery

Kayaking allows for a closer, quieter approach to wildlife like otters, turtles, and fish. The clear waters offer incredible views of underwater vegetation and marine life. Our knowledgeable guides will point out fascinating sights and share fun facts and stories along the way and you will have many opportunities for photos.

5. Best Time to Go
   Whether you are a morning person and enjoy the cooler quieter moments or you aren’t an early riser and are looking to enjoy the sunshine on your paddle; all of our tours offer the same small group setting for a more personal experience and the same expert guides to ensure an adventure no matter what time you choose.

Final Thoughts

While tubing offers a simple way to float along the river, kayaking provides a more enriching, adventurous experience. With a guided kayaking tour, you’ll gain deeper insights into the ecosystem, see more of the river, and have a stress-free, expertly led excursion. Book your kayaking tour today and make the most of your Rainbow Springs adventure!

*Tubing images in this blog are from Rainbow River Kayak. For more information, visit rainbowriverkayak.com.

*Kayaking images in this blog are from Get Up And Go Kayaking Rainbow Springs. For more information about booking a clear kayak tour, please visit getupandgokayaking.com/locations/florida/rainbow-springs.com