Boca Grande Kayak Launch Map – Great Calusa Blueway

Boca Grande Kayak Launch Location & Park Details

• Lee County Park: A public kayak launch on Boca Grande. Location provided within the map download.
• Parking: Free, but limited in size. No overnight parking.
• Amenities: Not ADA-accessible, no restrooms or facilities, BYO kayak or schedule a kayak rental delivery with SUP Englewood.
• Currently the Only Open Launch: Other Boca Grande launches are closed due to hurricane damage. Making this Lee County Park the go-to spot for local paddlers.

Part of the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail

This paddling trail is named after the Calusa Native Americans, known for traveling Florida’s coastal waters by dugout canoes. Additionally, evidence of their shell mounds can still be found along barrier islands today. For more historical context or official trail details, check out the Lee County website on the Great Calusa Blueway.

Paddling Routes & Wildlife

• Hoagen Key: Less than a mile from the launch. Which is ideal for a quick excursion or lunch break.
• Loomis Key & Three Sister Island: Explore a coastal lagoon, discover live shells (like starfish, banded tulips, lightning whelks, and horse conchs), and enjoy scenic mangrove-lined routes.
• Heading South: Paddle toward the town and golf course area, where manatees frequent. Stay to the sides in channels due to boat traffic (SB606 guidelines).
• Wildlife Sightings: Manatees, dolphins, various bird species (cormorants, pelicans, egrets, herons, ospreys), sea turtles (rare in summer), and even invasive iguanas along seawalls.

Manatee & Boater Awareness

• Manatee sightings are common; read our Manatee Etiquette Blog for tips on giving them space.
• Most areas are idle zones for boats, but don’t rely on boaters to follow rules, instead kayak defensively. Loomis Key’s northern waters is a faster zone, so stay alert.

Wind & Weather Tips for Kayaking in Boca Grande

• Best Time to Paddle: When winds are calm (<10 mph).
• Wind Direction: A west wind offers more protection along the island’s east side; otherwise plan your route accordingly.
• Seasonal Fluctuations: Winter and spring can be the windiest due to cold fronts—always start paddling against the wind so you can return with greater ease.
• Additional Tips: For additional safety tips for kayaking and paddle boarding in Boca Grande read our blog article on paddle boarding safely in Boca Grande.

Planning Additional Adventures

• Boca Grande Sandbar: While some ask about paddling from here to the sandbar which is over 2 miles each way. However, we’ll soon have a separate Fishery Road Kayak Launch Map for the sandbar—stay tuned!
• Once available, we’ll link to other Boca Grande launches like the Fishery Road Kayak Launch for those seeking different routes.

Disclaimer & Usage Terms

1. Personal, Non-Commercial Use Only
   This Boca Grande Kayak Launch Map is provided free of charge and is for personal use only. You may not copy, distribute, modify, or rebrand these maps for commercial or promotional purposes without express written consent from SUP Englewood.
2. Safety Responsibility
   Use this map at your own risk. Always follow local regulations, wear proper safety gear (PFD), and be aware of changing tides and weather conditions. SUP Englewood is not liable for any accidents, injuries, or damages arising from the use of this guide.

Why You’ll Love This Kayak Launch

• Scenic & Historic: Paddle through areas once explored by the Calusa people and see remnants of their influence on Florida’s barrier islands.
• Manatee & Wildlife Hotspot: Great chances to spot manatees—learn best practices for coexisting peacefully by reading our blog.
• Easy Access to the Gulf Coast: Ideal for short trips or extended adventures on the Great Calusa Blueway.
• Currently Open: The only public kayak launch in Boca Grande that’s accessible right now.

Download your Boca Grande Kayak Launch Map today and start exploring the Great Calusa Blueway in Lee County—just remember to keep an eye out for manatees, respect local boating regulations, and paddle safely in Florida’s beautiful coastal waters!