Dora Canal Tours - #1 Kayak And Paddle Board Tours & Rentals

Unforgettable Paddle Adventures Await

Experience the Natural Beauty of Central Florida
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Experience The Best And Wildest Dora Canal Tours

Central Florida's wild beauty awaits with our unforgettable Dora Canal paddle tours. Paddle along with our full-service kayak rentals and private tours that allow you to feel the gentle sun on your shoulders as you take in the colorful flora and fauna populating Lake Dora, Lake Beauclair, Lake Eustis, and the rest of the Harris Chain of Lakes.

As you paddle down passageways shaded by majestic cypress trees, you're likely to see fluttering birds, playful otters, and other wildlife commonly found in Tavares and the Mount Dora area. Our friendly, experienced tour guides share information about the history and ecology of the area during amazing tours that open up new worlds few tourists ever get to see.

At Adventure Outdoor Paddle, we’re all about sharing our love for the great outdoors! Our team is here to ensure you have a fantastic time as you explore the stunning beauty of the Dora Canal. We believe that every paddle stroke brings you closer to nature, and we’re excited to help you discover the hidden gems of Central Florida.

Membership Perks & Ultimate Combo Experiences

Adventure Outdoor Paddle

Featured Tours and Rentals

Guided tour through the Dora Canal
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
2 to 8

Dora Canal Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Adventure Outdoor Paddle through the enchanting Dora Canal, often dubbed "the most beautiful mile of waterway in the world." As you glide along the serene waters, the century-old cypress trees, draped in Spanish moss, create a mesmerizing canopy that filters the warm Florida sun. The sights of herons and egrets gracefully fishing along the banks, the gentle caress of a warm breeze, and the rhythmic paddle strokes of your kayak or paddle board will transport you to a world where time slows down. You'll not only discover the rich history of the canal dating back to the 1800s but also uncover a connection with the natural world. Get ready to make memories that are as vivid as the canal itself and let the wonder of this experience ignite your soul.

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$64.95
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
2 to 8

Paddle & Grub Tour

Discover the heart of Florida's natural beauty on our Paddle & Grub Tour. As you embark on a morning paddle along the Dora Canal, your senses will come alive with the gentle ripple of the water beneath your kayak or paddle board, the sun warming your skin, and the breeze tousling your hair. This tour promises not just adventure but also a symphony of sensations and positive emotions.

After your adventure on the water, it's time to satisfy your taste buds at Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Grill & Bar. With a $15 voucher in hand, indulge in the delectable flavors of Florida cuisine while dining overlooking Lake Dora. Witness the spectacle of seaplanes taking off and landing in America's Seaplane City, adding a unique touch to your dining experience.

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$79.95
Bubble waffle cone sundae
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
2 to 8

Poppy's Sweet Paddle Tour

Embark on a journey that combines the tranquility of nature with the indulgence of sweet treats on Poppy's Sweet Paddle Tour. Glide through the serene waters of the Dora Canal, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of wildlife. After your paddle, treat yourself to a delightful experience at Poppy's Ice Cream & Sweet Shop, where handcrafted bubble waffle cones await to satisfy your sweet tooth. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal escape for families, friends, or solo adventurers.

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$74.95
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
2 to 8

Paddle & Brew Tour

Combine the best of nature, adventure, and craft beer in one unforgettable journey with the Paddle & Brew Tour. Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Dora Canal, one of Lake County's most scenic waterways, while encountering a diverse array of wildlife in a Florida protected wetland canal. After your paddling adventure, indulge in a delightful craft beer tasting experience at the local Bru Taphouse, savoring a flight of craft beer from a selection of 30 different brews on tap. This tour ensures you won't miss a moment of these natural wonders and delightful flavors.

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$79.95
Duration
2 to 4 hours
Group Size
Up to 1

Single Kayak Rental

Experience the beauty of nature with our Single Kayak Rental. Perfect for solo adventurers, our premium kayaks are designed for comfort and stability, allowing you to explore the scenic waterways of the Lake Harris Chain of Lakes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, our knowledgeable staff will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Discover the vibrant stretch of the Dora Canal and get up close with the natural environment.

*We offer 20% military discount on rentals to any past or present military. Use CODE "USASTRONG" to receive 20% off your rental with Adventure Outdoor Paddle.

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from
$40
Duration
2 to 4 hours
Group Size
Up to 2

Tandem Kayak Rental

Explore the scenic beauty of Central Florida's waterways with our Tandem Kayak Rental. Perfect for couples or friends, our tandem kayaks offer a stable and comfortable way to paddle through the stunning landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, our well-maintained equipment and friendly staff will ensure a memorable experience on the water. Enjoy the tranquility of the Harris Chain of Lakes and discover the natural wonders that await you.

*We offer 20% military discount on rentals to any past or present military. Use CODE "USASTRONG" to receive 20% off your rental with Adventure Outdoor Paddle.

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from
$50
Duration
Group Size
1 to 10

Gift Cards

Give the gift of adventure with Adventure Outdoor Paddle Gift Cards. Perfect for any occasion, these gift cards allow your loved ones to choose their own unforgettable paddle experience. Whether it's a serene paddle through the Dora Canal or an exciting Paddle & Brew Tour, our gift cards offer flexibility and the promise of a memorable day on the water. Gift cards can be used for any of our guided tours, paddle rentals, or lessons.

Duration
Group Size
no limit

Gift Membership

Surprise your loved ones with the ultimate gift of choice and experience! A Gift Membership is more than just a present—it's a gateway to exclusive benefits, lasting memories, and a world of opportunities tailored to their passions and interests.

Why Choose Us?

We're The #1 Company For Kayaking In Central Florida

Our highly rated Tavares paddle tours offer so many ways to relax on the water! Choose from our themed guided kayak and paddleboard tours, rentals, and unique experiences throughout Florida's most scenic lakes. All experience levels are welcome. You can even partner up with a tandem kayak that offers the perfect bonding experience during a day on the lake.

We also offer paddle experiences that combine a scenic day of gliding along on the water with food and drinks at top local spots once you get back to the beach. Each immersive, enriching paddle experience comes with 5-star customer service and a fair cancellation policy. In short, we offer the best paddle board and kayaking experiences on the Dora Canal! Let’s dive in and see why:

Scenic

We guide you merrily along Florida's most peaceful and soothing waterways. This is a true escape to nature in the Mount Dora area that combines the thrill of paddling with the serenity of the calm ...

We guide you merrily along Florida's most peaceful and soothing waterways. This is a true escape to nature in the Mount Dora area that combines the thrill of paddling with the serenity of the calm and surreal Dora Canal. Our eco tours bring guests through lush, colorful landscapes you simply can't see anywhere else. Prepare to discover a perfectly balanced ecosystem canopied by majestic cypress trees clothed in thick Spanish moss. Step back in time as you glide through the historic Dora Canal, where lush vegetation flourishes in a protected wetland area, sunlight dances across gentle ripples, and a lively array of aquatic creatures flutters and dives, their curious eyes capturing the magic of this timeless natural treasure.

Relaxing

Your comfort and relaxation are prioritized during every tour with us! We offer dual kayaks and kayaks for a single person. Each premier kayak is designed for comfort and stability to ensure that y...

Your comfort and relaxation are prioritized during every tour with us! We offer dual kayaks and kayaks for a single person. Each premier kayak is designed for comfort and stability to ensure that you relax as you're guided along the Dora Canal under the supervision of our experienced, friendly crew. During your tour, you can simply settle into your kayak for some fun on the lake with the peace of mind of knowing that our local experts will guide your way. From adventurous seaplane and paddle excursions to unforgettable nature experiences with the family, these waterways offer something for everyone.

Wildlife-Filled

Our premier paddle tours along Lake Dora and the Dora Canal are so much fun because you never know who will show up! From otters to alligators, the wildlife here can get quite animated. Guests on o...

Our premier paddle tours along Lake Dora and the Dora Canal are so much fun because you never know who will show up! From otters to alligators, the wildlife here can get quite animated. Guests on our tours commonly see herons, egrets, and ospreys wading along the shore or flying overhead. Curious turtles are also sometimes spotted poking their heads above the surface of the water. You can also expect to see schools of fish gliding with purpose inches from your paddle. Don't worry about trying to keep an eye out. Our crew will let you know when we have "visitors" during your tour experience.

Location

Discover Tavares, Florida - A Hidden Gem For Adventure Seekers

We offer easy access to the Sunshine State's best waterways from our location in Tavares, Florida. Known as the Seaplane City, Tavares is a paddler's paradise situated on stunning Lake Dora. The city's history as a top spot for seaplane and kayaking tours began when the first recorded seaplane flight took place here in February of 1914. The unique geography of the area is ideal for water tours of all kinds.

Tavares is not just a gateway to the beautiful Dora Canal; it’s a charming destination in its own right! With its picturesque waterfront and friendly atmosphere, Tavares invites you to explore its delightful parks and scenic walking trails.

Of course, the city's bustling downtown area with seaplane tours, restaurants, bars, parks, and music venues makes this a great place to come for all kinds of entertainment and leisure. Come experience the warmth and charm of Tavares, where every visit feels like a mini-vacation, and don't miss the chance for a sunny day of paddling or relaxing on a sunset seaplane tour!

Frequently asked questions

Most frequent questions and answers

Adventure Outdoor Paddle is located in Tavares, Florida, situated less than a half mile to the stunning scenery of the Dora Canal on the Harris Chain of Lakes. When you embark on a paddle experience with us, you can expect a blend of tranquility, adventure, and natural beauty. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through the calm waters, pointing out local wildlife, lush vegetation, and historical landmarks along the way. Whether you're a novice or experienced paddler, our tours and rentals offer something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable journey through one of Florida's most picturesque waterways.

**THE DORA CANAL CAN GET HEAVY MOTORBOAT TRAFFIC ON WEEKENDS. WE RECOMMEND STARTING AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR PADDLE IN OUR WARMER MONTHS (MARCH-AUGUST)**

Our paddle route is approximately 2.5-3 miles total in length. The average paddler can paddle this in about 2 hours. If you really like to take your time paddling and take lots of nature photographs or exploring feeder canals, we recommend a 3-hour rental time.

**If you plan to stop at Fish Camp (waterfront restaurant on Lake Eustis) we would recommend a 4-hour paddle rental so you are not rushed at the restaurant.

YES! We are animal lovers!! Your pet is welcome to come on the adventure with you. Our city park requires that your pet must be on a leash, so make sure to bring that along with you. We would also recommend that your pet wear a proper size fitting life vest. We know most animals are good swimmers, but you will want to be able to grab onto something if they make their way outside of your vessel. A life vest makes it easy to get them back in the kayak or paddle board. And our last recommendation is to bring something for them to drink out of to stay hydrated in the Florida heat.

Yes, there are alligators in the waters we paddle. Alligators are a part of our ecosystem in Florida. Our general rule of thumb when paddling is to BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AT ALL TIMES. This means if you spot an alligator, give it space. You should not be close enough to take a selfie. By giving the animal space, we respect it.

A few quick safety tips about alligators:

*Alligators have a natural aversion to people and prefer not to be around them
*NEVER, EVER FEED A GATOR! Besides the fact that this is ILLEGAL in the state of Florida, it is also very dangerous. We also discourage the practice of feeding our shoreline birds on Lake Dora for this reason. Any remaining food CAN attract these animals.
*Stick to daytime swimming (sorry nighttime skinny dippers!)
*Always be aware of your surroundings
*When a gator is spotted, give the animal it's space.

The FWC nuisance alligator hotline is 1.866.392.4286

The Dora Canal is home to a rich variety of wildlife, offering a captivating glimpse into Florida's natural habitat. As you paddle through these serene waters, keep your eyes peeled for a multitude of fascinating creatures, including:

Birds: The canal serves as a haven for numerous bird species, both resident and migratory. You may spot majestic herons gracefully wading along the shoreline, colorful egrets taking flight overhead, or perhaps even a stealthy osprey scanning the waters for its next meal.

Turtles: Sunbathing on logs or leisurely gliding through the water, turtles are a common sight in the Dora Canal. Look closely, and you might catch a glimpse of a freshwater turtle basking in the warm Florida sun or a curious terrapin poking its head above the surface.

Alligators: While encounters with alligators are not guaranteed, the Dora Canal is known to be home to these iconic reptiles. Our experienced guides will help you observe them from a safe distance, offering insights into their behavior and importance within the ecosystem.

Fish and Aquatic Life: Beneath the surface, a bustling world of aquatic life thrives in the canal's waters. Keep an eye out for schools of fish darting among the aquatic vegetation, and you might even spot a playful otter making an appearance.

Plants and Flora: In addition to its diverse fauna, the Dora Canal is adorned with lush vegetation and native flora. From towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss to vibrant water lilies adorning the water's edge, the scenery is as breathtaking as it is diverse.

Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about the local ecosystem and will eagerly share their expertise, pointing out interesting wildlife sightings and providing fascinating insights into the delicate balance of life along the canal. Prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of nature as you embark on a memorable paddle adventure with Adventure Outdoor Paddle.

We recommend bringing the following items to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable paddle experience:

Sun Protection: Florida's sun can be intense, so don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

Appropriate Clothing: Dress in comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Quick-drying materials are ideal, as you may get splashed while paddling.

Footwear: Wear water shoes or sandals with straps to ensure stability and comfort while walking on uneven terrain during launch and landing.

Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated throughout your paddle adventure by bringing plenty of water. Light snacks like granola bars or fruit can also help keep your energy levels up.

Please note that Adventure Outdoor Paddle has a strict no-alcohol policy during our tours and rentals. We prioritize the safety and enjoyment of all participants and ask that you refrain from consuming alcohol before or during your paddle experience.

Yes! We work out of a public park in downtown Tavares, so it is FREE to launch on Lake Dora. You are welcome to use the beach we operate out of. Stop by and say hello to us, as we LOVE meeting new paddlers in the community! We can also help you with directions for paddle route and get some hydration for your paddle. We offer some merchandise for sale at our location on the weekends including waterproof phone cases and dry bags, sunscreen, hats, UPF 50 long sleeve sun shirts, t-shirts, and paddle ornaments.

**If the winds are strong on Lake Dora, we would suggest launching your vessel at an alternative park just down the road in Tavares called Summerall Park, located at 1001 Wells Ave, Tavares. Summerall Park is at the beginning of the Dora Canal near Lake Dora. From this park you would paddle to the left to reach Lake Eustis, before turning around and returning to your launch point.

Yes, we offer private tours for special occasions, group events, corporate outings, and more. Contact us to discuss your specific needs and we'll work with you to create a customized paddle experience tailored to your group.

Yes, a $50 late fee per vessel, per hour will be accessed at checkout. We are a small outfitter and want to serve as many guests as possible with the available equipment we have. Reservations and rental time frames help us do this. Thank you for being considerate of the next guests behind you so everyone can make the most of their time on the water! All rentals are due back by 5:00PM. Thank you for being respectful of closing times.

*We try our best to work with you on the weather/wind conditions on Lake Dora and take this into account with your rental time frame. Most days we have availability to extend your rental with notice, but this is not always the case on busy weekends and or holidays.

Your rental time begins at the time of your reservation. This includes check in and check out time. We recommend arriving 10 minutes prior to your reservation to get the most out of your rental.

Your safety is our top priority. In the event of bad weather or unsafe paddling conditions, we may need to reschedule or cancel the tour or paddle rental. We will do our best to notify you as soon as possible and provide alternative options. If we have to cancel due to inclement weather, you will receive a full refund.

Cancellations made before 48 hours scheduled reserved time will receive a FULL refund minus credit card processing fee. Cancellations made within 24 hours will receive 50% refund. Cancellations made day of scheduled reservation will be charge full price.

We understand that life happens! We try and do our best to find a solution that will work for your interrupted plans.

*If we have to cancel due to inclement weather, you will receive a full refund.

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