North Stars:

Energy Efficiency

Waste Management

Water Management

“I often see alligators and turtles lazily sunning themselves on a log.”

The Azure Road Take

Located on the outskirts of Orlando near Wekiwa Springs State Park, Wekiva Island is an alternative to the artifice and manmade attractions of the city’s many theme parks — a connection to real Florida nature. Set on the banks of the Wekiva River, this family-run local hangout invites visitors to discover this enchanting waterway through a host of outdoor sports and activities. Thanks to its natural scenery, archaeological and historical significance, and abundant diversity of flora and fauna, the Wekiva counts as one of few Florida rivers designated a National Wild and Scenic River.

(You can also kayak in Copenhagen and Indianapolis.) 

Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards (or bring your own) to float along this serene, spring-fed river, drifting past lush banks on gentle currents. I often see alligators and turtles lazily sunning themselves on a log, and I always meet new feathered friends as I meander along the river in my kayak. The Wekiva is a natural aviary and is a birder’s dream come true. There’s even been a few times when I’ve been lucky enough to see otters and manatees playing in the water alongside my kayak. Back at the Wekiva Island basecamp, waterfront cabanas and an Adirondack chair-lined boardwalk provide places to sit back and just soak up the views.

But Wekiva Island is more than just a river launch site; with a cafe, bar, general store, and art gallery, it’s a community gathering place. It doesn’t just serve locals, either; it also serves the river. From using solar energy for electricity and heating water to working toward being carbon neutral by 2030, sustainability is central to Wekiva Island’s mission.

Who’s it for?

Those eager to see the natural side of Florida or head for a relaxing family outing. Watersports fans can either bring their own gear or find rentals on-site. With guided tours available, there are even opportunities for beginners to get out on the water. Those who prefer to sit on the sidelines and enjoy the scenery from a waterside cabana while sipping on a cold craft beer can do that, too. If you’re feeling competitive, you can also join in a game of sand volleyball and cornhole. 

The Wekiva Island community shows strong support for the arts. The onsite art gallery has rotating exhibits, and visitors who feel inspired to get creative can join a monthly wine and paint class. They also host an annual plein air event where artists come from around the world to interpret the spectacular scenery with a wrist and a brush. The Wekiva Paint Out is a creative celebration of the river’s natural resources and serves as a fundraiser to benefit local non-profit groups such as Keep Seminole Beautiful and the Wekiva Wilderness Trust.

Sustainability Chops

Owners Bill and Mary Weinaug take sustainability seriously, as Bill shared in his blog: “Sustainability is not always the easiest path for a business. We don’t have to do it,” he writes. “From my life experiences, I’ve come to realize that really, we do..I hope Wekiva Island can be a true example of how it’s done.”

Wekiva Island has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2030 and is making significant progress toward that goal through its trademarked CERO principle (Conservation, Efficiency, Renewables, and Offsets). With a total of 290 solar panels, the site uses renewable solar energy for most of its electricity needs and to heat water as well.

Recycling initiatives, rainwater reclamation and reuse, and water-saving practices are also in place. The landscaping features only native Florida species, and much of the on-site artwork and decor was made from reclaimed materials. Wekiva Island also has a LEED Platinum-certified classroom and education center, which is available for field trips, meetings, and events.

Food doesn’t go to waste either, thanks to Wekiva Blooms, a community composting program. Scraps and organic waste from the on-site Without a Paddle Cafe go into a compost, which is then shared with community gardens and farms. Locals can purchase a Compost Caddy from the store to bring food waste from home to be composted through the program.

Location, Topography, Wildlife

Located in Longwood, Florida, Wekiva Island is about a half-hour drive outside of central Orlando. The spring-fed river has a current, but you’ll never come close to hitting rapids. It’s a peaceful paddle full of wildlife and lush foliage. Paddlers will find a couple of routes, with the most popular journey being a one-mile paddle that leads you to Wekiwa Springs State Park – home to one of central Florida’s most limpid springs, plus other fun activities such as swimming, cycling, and hiking. You’ll paddle upstream to get to the park, and then have an easy paddle back to the island. 

Those looking for the path-less-traveled have another option. When pushing off into the river, paddle downstream to the right for more wildlife, less people. You’ll get the same natural scenery, but in a quieter space. This waterway eventually intersects with the St. Johns River, although paddlers who take this route don’t typically make the entire 16-mile journey. It’s common to turn around after a few miles and paddle back to the island. If you go this direction, you’ll return against the current, but you’ll burn more calories, too.

How to Prepare

Wekiva Island has a capacity meter on its website that shows how full they are at any given moment. They do fill up, mostly on the weekends during the summer. Cabanas can be rented ahead of time, but if you’re renting a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak, you’ll just rent it when you get there. Make sure to bring sunscreen and a dry bag, but if you forget anything, a small store sells essentials.   

Guide Service

Most paddlers bring their own vessel or just show up and rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for their own exploration. For those who’ve never paddled, a guided tour can serve as a great introduction to the sport. Paddleboard Orlando offers guided tours that depart from Wekiva Island, providing paddleboards or kayaks, depending on your preference. Even if you’re experienced, you may appreciate the guided journey simply to learn more about local flora and fauna from an expert.