Rainbow Springs Tour

Kayak and snorkel one of Florida's largest natural springs.  Enjoy this family-friendly activity in the crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Springs.

This could be the end of the rainbow! Travel down one of Florida's largest natural springs and refresh in the crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Springs, which are a constant 72 degrees year round. Rainbow Springs is considered a first magnitude spring that is ranked fourth in the state for discharge volume. The Rainbow River ecosystem discharges from 400 – 600 million gallons of water a day through it’s numerous vents. This tour combines the best of two adventures – kayaking and snorkeling. Within the grasses and bubbling springs, you’ll encounter a wide variety of freshwater fish, wildlife, and plants. It’s like having an aquarium in the great outdoors! Wildlife is abundant, including many birds, river otters, painted turtles, deer, and bullfrogs, which can be heard during the early morning hours. Just bring your snorkeling gear, and we’ll handle the rest, including transportation.

Cost: $160
Duration: 8 hours
Skill Level: All

Kayaking - Rainbow Springs

Rainbow Springs Tour FAQs

Where is Rainbow Springs?

Rainbow Springs in located outside of Dunnellon, Florida (170 miles northwest of the Sarasota/Bradenton area) where the Rainbow River flows from Rainbow Springs into the Withlacoochee River. Rainbow Springs is also part of our state park system and was designated as an “Outstanding Florida Waterway” in 1987.

What is there to see on the Rainbow Springs Tour?

Among the wildlife on this tour, you can see river otters, turtles, alligators and many types of birds including Hummingbirds, Red-shouldered Hawks, Swallow-tailed Kites, Osprey, Barred Owls and various water birds. At the entrance to the state park, there are waterfalls and phosphate pits from former open mining activity. There also used to be a small zoo complex in the gardens around the Headsprings. Some of the facilities still exist but are no longer used. At the entrance there is a small visitors center, shop, snack bar and restrooms, located on the hillside above Rainbow Springs with beautiful views of the Rainbow River.

Do I need my own snorkeling equipment?

Yes, if you choose to snorkel downstream with the current on the second half of the tour, you will need fins, mask and a snorkel.

Are there bathrooms and changing facilities available?

Yes, there are restrooms and changing areas at the beginning and end of the tour as well as the Rainbow Springs State Park entrance facilities.

What is the cost of the Rainbow Springs Tour?

The cost of this tour is $160 per person. It can be paid by cash, check (including out-of-state checks), or credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover) at the time of your tour. The only additional cost would be a tip for your tour guide if you so desire. The cost includes transportation and entrance into Rainbow Springs State Park.

Where do we meet?

A meeting point will be determined at the time of your reservation

How long is the Rainbow Springs Tour?

This tour is approximately 8 hours long, in addition to the three-hour driving time to the launch location. The roundtrip driving time is approximately 6 hours, so plan on a long day.

Kayaking - Rainbow Springs

What should I bring?

We highly recommend bringing a few bottles of water and items that you would normally have while you are out in the sun (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses). Cameras are okay, but we suggest putting them in a zipped plastic bag. You may want to bring a bagged lunch or some extra money for snacks at the concession stand. A dry change of clothes is also recommended for the ride home. If you would like to snorkel, please remember your fins, mask and snorkel.

What should I wear?

Most people wear t-shirts, shorts and/or bathing suits. During the winter months we suggest a light wind breaker or a sweat shirt depending on the temperature and the wind conditions.  The most important thing is to be comfortable. As for shoes, wear something that you don’t mind getting wet - flip flops, aqua shoes, Tivas, or old sneakers are ideal.

Is the Rainbow Springs Tour for me?

This tour is ideal for anyone looking to combine kayaking and snorkeling in one of Florida’s premier fresh-water springs. Rainbow Springs is considered a first magnitude spring and is ranked fourth in the state for volume of water discharged.


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Rainbow Springs is located outside of Dunnellon, Florida (170 miles northwest of the Sarasota/Bradenton area) where the Rainbow River flows from Rainbow Springs into the Withlacoochee River.

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