Last updated: January 23, 2024
Thing to Do
Paddling in Gulf Islands
NPS Photo/Doggrell
Gulf Islands National Seashore offers many opportunities for visitors looking to get out on the water. With boat launches in both Mississippi and Florida, there's plenty of places to launch your watercraft. There are currently launches in Perdido Key, Okaloosa, Naval Live Oaks, and Davis Bayou. Boat launches can be viewed on the park map, available on the website and mobile app.
The Florida section of the park is also part of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The Perdido Key Blueway marks the first section of this 1500 mile paddling trail, which can be entered from the Perdido Key area of Gulf Islands, or the nearby Big Lagoon State Park. Paddlers may wish to camp on the end of Perdido Key, where boat-in camping is allowed. There are no facilities, and paddlers must pack out what they bring in.
The gently sloping shore and shallow nearshore waters of Fort Pickens and Santa Rosa, as well as abundant beach access, make these areas perfect for a relaxing paddle. Visitors should take care to check weather reports and surf conditions on days when they plan to be out on the water. Careful planning may reward you with flat, calm conditions and beautiful blue-green water. Other days, the waters of the Gulf are less than friendly, and paddlers should take caution.
The Mississippi section of the park features the Davis Bayou Blueway, which connects Davis, Stark, and Halstead Bayous. Paddlers are able to experience solitude on the still waters of Davis Bayou, surrounded by tall grasses and wildlife. For the very experienced and adventurous, there are also several wilderness islands located about 10 miles offshore where boat-in camping is allowed. Paddlers should use extreme caution and have experience navigating in open waterways. Wilderness permits are required for groups of 10 or more.
All paddlers are required by law to wear a life vest, as is anyone else aboard the vessel. For more information on boating regulations and safety, visit our boating page. The park does not rent any paddling equipment at this time, but concessionares are available outside the park.
The Florida section of the park is also part of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The Perdido Key Blueway marks the first section of this 1500 mile paddling trail, which can be entered from the Perdido Key area of Gulf Islands, or the nearby Big Lagoon State Park. Paddlers may wish to camp on the end of Perdido Key, where boat-in camping is allowed. There are no facilities, and paddlers must pack out what they bring in.
The gently sloping shore and shallow nearshore waters of Fort Pickens and Santa Rosa, as well as abundant beach access, make these areas perfect for a relaxing paddle. Visitors should take care to check weather reports and surf conditions on days when they plan to be out on the water. Careful planning may reward you with flat, calm conditions and beautiful blue-green water. Other days, the waters of the Gulf are less than friendly, and paddlers should take caution.
The Mississippi section of the park features the Davis Bayou Blueway, which connects Davis, Stark, and Halstead Bayous. Paddlers are able to experience solitude on the still waters of Davis Bayou, surrounded by tall grasses and wildlife. For the very experienced and adventurous, there are also several wilderness islands located about 10 miles offshore where boat-in camping is allowed. Paddlers should use extreme caution and have experience navigating in open waterways. Wilderness permits are required for groups of 10 or more.
All paddlers are required by law to wear a life vest, as is anyone else aboard the vessel. For more information on boating regulations and safety, visit our boating page. The park does not rent any paddling equipment at this time, but concessionares are available outside the park.
Details
Duration
1-8 Hours
Activity
Paddling
Visitors may wish to canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard in the waters of Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Age(s)
4 and Older
All ages, but parental supervision is recommended for young children.
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Visitors may bring their pet aboard the vessel as long as they are allowed to access the launch area. Dogs are not allowed on any of the beaches in Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see park Fees & Passes page.
Location
Florida and Mississippi
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Winter conditions generally yield rougher, colder waters, but the Gulf of Mexico experiences strong currents year round. Use caution.
Time of Day
Any Time
Paddling in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any hazards. Overnight camping is permitted on the eastern portion of Perdido Key and on wilderness islands off of Davis Bayou.
Accessibility Information
Boat launches at Okaloosa, Perdido Key, and Davis Bayou are paved. The boat launch at Naval Live Oaks is located about 60 yards from the parking lot over a level sand trail.