Paddleboarding & Water Sports in Ocala

Crystal-clear springs, scenic rivers, and lakes for SUP, kayaking, tubing, and water recreation

Springs & Rivers
Year-Round 72°F Water

Water Sports in Marion County

Ocala is surrounded by crystal-clear natural springs, spring-fed rivers, and scenic lakes that make it one of Florida's best destinations for paddleboarding, kayaking, and water recreation. The spring water stays a constant 72°F year-round, offering comfortable conditions even in winter. From the world-famous Silver Springs to the Rainbow River, Marion County has water adventures for every skill level.

Best Spots for Water Sports

Spring-Fed River

Silver River (Silver Springs)

Crystal-clear first-magnitude spring with 80+ feet visibility. Rent SUPs on-site or bring your own.

PaddleboardingKayakingGlass Bottom Boats
Spring-Fed River

Rainbow River

Gentle current, 72°F year-round, stunning clarity. One of Florida's best tubing and SUP rivers.

PaddleboardingTubingKayakingSnorkeling
Natural Spring

Alexander Springs

Large natural swimming spring in Ocala National Forest with paddleboard rentals and creek paddling.

PaddleboardingSwimmingSnorkelingKayaking
Lake

Lake Weir

Large open-water lake south of Ocala perfect for SUP, boating, skiing, and fishing.

PaddleboardingBoatingFishingSwimming
River

Ocklawaha River

Scenic blackwater river with abundant wildlife including alligators, eagles, and deer.

KayakingFishingPaddleboardingWildlife Viewing
Natural Spring

Salt Springs

Warm mineral spring in Ocala National Forest with year-round 72°F water and nearby trails.

SwimmingSnorkelingPaddleboardingKayaking

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I paddleboard in Ocala, Florida?

The best paddleboarding spots near Ocala include the Silver River at Silver Springs State Park (crystal-clear spring water), Rainbow River near Dunnellon (gentle current, stunning clarity), Lake Weir (open water paddling), Ocklawaha River (nature paddling), and Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest. Several outfitters near these locations rent SUP boards by the hour or day.

Can you rent paddleboards near Ocala?

Yes, several outfitters near Ocala rent stand-up paddleboards. Silver Springs State Park has kayak and paddleboard rentals on-site. Rainbow River outfitters in Dunnellon offer SUP rentals with shuttle service. Alexander Springs has a concessionaire with board rentals. Prices typically range from $25-45 for a half day. Most rentals include paddles and life vests.

What are the best water sports in Ocala?

Popular water sports in the Ocala area include stand-up paddleboarding on springs and rivers, kayaking on the Silver River and Rainbow River, tubing on Rainbow River (one of the most popular tubing spots in Florida), fishing on Lake Weir and the Ocklawaha River, snorkeling at springs like Alexander Springs and Salt Springs, and boating on Marion County lakes. The crystal-clear spring water makes Ocala one of Florida best destinations for water recreation.

Is Rainbow River good for paddleboarding?

Rainbow River is excellent for paddleboarding. The spring-fed river maintains 72°F water year-round with outstanding clarity. The gentle downstream current makes paddling easy, and the river is wide enough for comfortable SUP navigation. Rainbow Springs State Park headspring is a popular launch point, and several private outfitters offer SUP rentals and shuttle service along the river.

Can you paddleboard at Silver Springs State Park?

Yes, paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities at Silver Springs State Park. The Silver River offers crystal-clear water with visibility exceeding 80 feet, making it a spectacular paddleboarding experience. You can rent equipment at the park or bring your own. Paddlers often spot fish, turtles, and sometimes manatees (in winter months) and the famous wild rhesus monkeys in the trees along the riverbank.
Kayaking Guide →Springs Near OcalaFishing GuideGlass Bottom Boats

Water sports guide compiled by the Only In Ocala outdoor team. Updated February 2026. Conditions and rentals subject to change.