Kayaking

The Space Coast's water playground has over 100 miles of beach, rivers,
and waterways to play in and on. Kayaking offers a peaceful, up-close
view without disturbing the wildlife that call this area their habitat.

Residents have the option of using their own kayaks but visitors and
those of us that don't own a kayak have opportunities, as well. Cocoa
Beach Kayaking, owned and managed by Kathleen Bennett, is one option.
Kathleen is a manatee behavioral specialist and educator, with extensive
hands-on experience especially in the Indian River Lagoon habitat. She
even has published a children's book about manatees! Kayaking is a
great way to explore and visit manatees, dolphins, pelicans, turtles,
and otters, in their own back yards.

Kathleen has two guides to help her: Ellen & Jodi. Ellen has travelled
the Indian River Lagoon in one kayak, canoe or another, for 40 years.
Jodi, a Sea World trained guide, has lived in the area for 15 years and
is an avid kayaker!

Cocoa Beach Kayaking offers tours, lasting two hours and more, five
days a week. They get my vote because they supply everything but a
camera and any snacks you might want. That means they supply: kayak,
paddles, life vests, polarized sunglasses, 50 SPF sunblock, bottles
water, and insulated drink holders. Plus their gallery shows very happy
people of all ages! For more info call: 321-784-4545. To see the smiling
faces and read the rave reviews in the guest book, visit their web site
www.cocoabeachkayaking.com For other kayaking tours/locations, go to Brevard Zoo Examiner.