Guide to Paddling the Canals of Fort Lauderdale

Paddling the canals of Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic way to experience a relaxing day on the water. Here’s how to navigate through the affluent Las Olas Isles on a SUP or kayak on a perfect sunny south Florida day.

Paddling the Canals of Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale (AKA The Venice of America) is home to some of the most intricate canal systems in the US. Honestly, it’s hard not to find great places to enjoy the water here.

One of our favorite routes is through the canals of the Las Olas Isles – the most affluent neighborhood in the city. Paddle next to mega-yachts and multimillion dollar mansions while enjoying a relaxing ocean adventure. Not to mention, some great exercise!

The route is great for beginners and experts alike, whether you’re a local or just visiting for vacation!

This is a detailed guide on:

• Finding a launch site or a place to rent a kayak or paddle board.
• Navigating to and through while paddling the canals of Fort Lauderdale.
• What you may see, safety precautions, and extra tips on paddling in Fort Lauderdale!

Grab your sunscreen and a paddle, you’re in for a Fort Lauderdale paddling adventure!

Map Your Paddle Route in Fort Lauderdale

Access Points to Paddle the Canals of Fort Lauderdale:

If you have your own kayak or paddle board, you can find two spots ideal for launching:

George English Park: just off of Sunrise Boulevard, the park has two boat ramps for easy access to the water. Blue Moon Kayak rentals are located here.

Victoria Park: Not to be mistaken with the neighbor it resides in, Victoria Park features an old stone staircase into the canal waters. It’s the best spot to start at if you want a shorter trip. Parking is extremely limited, though (3 or 4 cars).

Where to Rent Kayaks, Paddleboards, and Guided tours:

A few companies service the area:

• Blue Moon Outdoor Adventures is based right in George English Park. Their kayak and SUP rentals start at $30 for two hours.
• Las Olas Paddleboards is situated directly on the Middle River – a great starting point to explore Las Olas Isles. Rentals start at $25 for an hour, $40 for three hours.
• SUP PUP: SUP rentals or a guided tour through the canals of Fort Lauderdale. Leaving from Victoria Park, rentals start at $35 for 2 hours + $10 per additional hour.

Navigating the canals from George English Park

After leaving George English Park, take a left (southbound) on the Middle River. The river eventually empties into the Intracoastal, but you’re going to want to turn sooner…

Pass under Sunrise Boulevard

As soon as you leave the park you’ll pass under Sunrise Boulevard. Notice the current and remember you’ll have to fight that coming back!

Stick to the right down the river

Head south for the next half mile on the Middle River, hugging the right side of the waterway as you paddle. You’ll notice a right turn into a canal along the way. You’ve already made it to Las Olas Isles! Now that was easy, wasn’t it?

When in doubt, keep turning right

Along the route, it’s nice to stop at Victoria Park or Annie Beck Park for a rest stop. Best way to get there? Turn right! You’ll enter into a small channel of mangroves and some nice greenery.

These two parks serve as another launch point for the same route. It’s a good place to start if you have your own kayak or SUP and want a leisure stroll through the canals.

Cut east from Victoria Park into a larger canal

From the staircase at Victoria Park, take the small channel directly east. It’ll bring you into a beautiful canal lined with magnificent yachts and some worn-down sailboats from years of exploring.

Weave through the canals of Las Olas Isles at your pleasure

The rest of the paddle is entirely up to how long you want to go. Paddle as far east as you can to reach the Intracoastal Waterway, or take a shortcut through one of the many canals to choose from. Luckily, the views don’t disappoint one way or another.

Head back to your starting point

Cut through the Rio Barcelona Canal for quickest access to your starting point. Or double back to Victoria Park if that’s where you started!

Rest Stops During the Paddle:

The only place to truly get out and stretch your legs is Victoria Park and Annie Beck Park. Otherwise, grab ahold of a dock or hang out under one of the low hanging bridges for a breather!

What you may see while paddling the canals of Fort Lauderdale:

It’s not the most natural of trails but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything cool to look at!

Some highlights are:

• Yachts and boats! Some of the most ambitious machines known to man!
• Mangroves! Common in subtropical climates, these trees are the only known species to survive in salt water.
• Unfortunately, trash. Typically, stuck in the mangroves or floating down the river. Do your part and clean as you see! Or take the step to do even more.
• If you’re lucky…a manatee! Be on the lookout as you can hear/see them come up for air!
• Beautiful canal homes we can all dream of owning some day.
• MORE Yachts and boats! (seriously, where do these people get their money?!)

Safety and Other Considerations When Paddling in Fort Lauderdale:

• Safe Boating Practices! Middle River and the Intracoastal can be high boat traffic areas. Stay SAFE by hugging to the sides to allow bigger boats to pass through. Practice common sense boating!
• Check tide charts before you go! This won’t make or break the trip but it will certainly give you a hand if you time it out right!
• Keep in mind: water is rushing inland during high tide, water is rushing out to sea during low tide. Plan accordingly.
• Put your finger to the wind! Again this is not make or break, but paddling into gusty winds can certainly add some extra strain on those arms of yours. Although, the canals themselves are well protected from the wind.
• Bring a bucket or small bag! For what? For all the trash you might find! Plastic bottles, wrappers, and cups can be quite common, unfortunately. Do your part and clean trash you see as it’ll eventually make its way to our oceans! Related: 10 Alternatives to Single-Use Plastic.
• Download Google Maps. Just so you’re sure to stay on the right track. Keeping your map pulled up will prevent any accidental strokes in the wrong direction!

Paddle resources and equipment:

• An eco-friendly water bottle? Check.
• A dry bag for clothes, towel, and snacks? Check.
• Waterproof case for your phone so you can access the map? Check.
• Coral reef and ocean safe sunscreen? Check.

Looks like you’re ready to go! Happy paddling, explorers!

Traveling to Fort Lauderdale?

Use these resources to help plan your trip!

Paddling the Canals of Fort Lauderdale Conclusion

One of the most enjoyable routes in the city, we continually pay these waters a visit. The protected canals and minimal current provide for a relaxing day on the water. We hope to see you out paddling Fort Lauderdale soon!