Welcome to Kayak Amelia!
Kayak Rentals Jacksonville / Amelia Island area
It is with sad hearts we have to inform you that Kayak Amelia has permanently closed its doors.
Our journey began 27 years ago, when kayaking was a novel concept in NE FL. Our business model was built on the core belief that immersing people in nature was the most effective way to showcase the delicate ecosystem and educate them on conservation efforts. Jody’s favorite quote, “What you see with your eyes, you will treasure with your heart.” was our operating principle. If we could have folks make a connection with the Salt-marsh eco-system and value it enough to want to protect it, we urged our visitors to find the places they loved and valued at home and protect them as well. Whether it was kayaking with inner-city kids from Jacksonville who had NEVER seen the ocean or scientists from China who inquired about what was being done about all the invasive plants (NOTE: our spartina marsh grass is an invasive plant in their waterways), every interaction was a learning opportunity for both us and our visitors.
Building friendships with individuals worldwide has been a rewarding experience. Many paddlers who visited as children returned with their own kids years later. We played a part in shaky, but earnest marriage proposals, family celebrations, and touching memorials. Throughout 15 years of Summer Camp, we witnessed our young campers mature into adults.
Our dedicated staff has always been the cornerstone of Kayak Amelia's prosperity. The many wonderful talented, charismatic, silly, patient, hard working folks were more than “employees”, they were and will always remain “family” ! We even supported some in launching their own kayak ventures, and many still stay in touch.
Following the non-renewal of our contract with the state park, we aimed to continue providing guided tours. However, financially, this proved unfeasible. After thorough deliberation (and more than a little angst), we made the difficult decision to close this chapter of our shared saga and bid farewell to Kayak Amelia…….adventure awaits! (and you still “Deserve A Good Paddling!”)
Guided Tours - Kayak
2 hour tour
adult – $70, child under 12 yr – $60. Includes paddle instruction, kayak, life jacket, naturalist guide, no experience needed.
adult – $70, child under 12 yr – $60. Includes paddle instruction, kayak, life jacket, naturalist guide, no experience needed.
Rentals - Not available at present time
Create your own adventure from our base in Talbot Islands State Park. We’ll help you plan the best route based on weather and tide. Half day rentals (up to 4 hours) – —– single kayak or SUP – $45 —-
—— two person kayak – $60 ——
bike – $8/hr. No reservations
—— two person kayak – $60 ——
bike – $8/hr. No reservations
Instruction - Not available now
We want to help you become a stronger, more confident paddler. ACA certified instructors teach Intro to kayaking / paddle boarding and rescue classes.
Why choose Kayak Amelia
Experience
Kayak Amelia has been offering eco-tours and rentals in NE Florida for 27 years.
Certified Guides
Our guides are ACA trained tour leaders, have Wilderness First Aid or above, FL Master Naturalists.
Use the tide
Tours are planned based on the tide so that we go with the current and shuttle paddlers back to their cars.
Testimonials
We did a kayak tour and these guys are just about the friendliest group of people you could ask for. Our guides, Buddy and Will, were very knowledgeable about the area and wildlife. They were also very accommodating for a member of our party who has a disability. Definitely something to checkout if you’re visiting the area!
Buddy was an excellent guide, teacher and encourager for those of us who had little kayaking experience. He had so many interesting facts and knowledge to share about the area, and especially about the beloved lightning bugs.
This was a first class adventure! Jody and Ray are knowledgeable about local wildlife and aquatic species, and share their knowledge with a genuine enthusiasm for the beautiful world out on the water. It was an awesome experience!
We had a wonderful day! While wind conditions did not allow for kayaking, we rented bikes and had a beautiful ride to include a visit to the beautiful Boneyard Beach! CJ was most helpful in setting us up for a most enjoyable morning!
Could not have had a better family kayak experience! Nine of us starting age 4 to adults. Thanks to our fantastic guide Rachel and booking manager CJ. This was a HUGE hit for all of us. Highly recommended!
Our guides were deeply knowledgeable about the history and ecology of the area, and were also good teachers of basic kayaking skills. The trip was peaceful and beautiful, and we saw a lot of birds, including a kingfisher, ospreys, egrets, and herons.
We have kayaked many times in many places. This was the best. The guides and staff were excellent. The trip was easy, fun and beautiful. - Amelia Island, FL
Mission Statement
To create a wake,
whose ripples provide our guests with a sense of wonder about the natural world,
while minimizing our impact on the daily lives of the non-human neighbors
whose home we share.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) and Chapter 760, Part I, Florida Statutes, the “Florida Civil Rights Act ,” the Kayak Amelia. is committed to providing accessible facilities, programs and services for all people, including those with disabilities to participate in and enjoy recreational paddlesport opportunities and experiences. To access of complete copy of the Accessibility and Inclusion Policy, or if you have any inquiries or complaints, please call 904-251-0016.
