April 17, 2026
Why Spring is the Most Magical Time to Paddle the Dora Canal
There is something about spring in the Dora Canal that you can feel the moment you push off from shore. The air is softer, the light has that warm gol...
Read MoreDora Canal Tours - #1 Kayak And Paddle Board Tours & Rentals
Adventure Awaits on Florida's Most Wildly Scenic Waterway
Scenic Adventures Guests Love
Excellent
350 Verified reviews
G
gulfbeachgroupie
Apr 28, 2026
Katrina gave us a wonderful tour of the canal. I had no idea how beautiful it was. She knew all the birds and wildlife and was so much fun to be with. Being only our 2nd time kayaking, we were not particularly good at it, but she was extremely patient and helpful in getting us steered down the canal. It is shady and beautiful and an easy fun trip to do, regardless of skill level. Perfect for nature lovers or anyone wanting a relaxing experience.
Posted on
L
Leslie Boucher
May 16, 2026
Had a great time Kayaking! The scenery was beautiful! The guide was very helpful getting us started. It was a busy boat day and she helped us get out where it was easier. Had a wonderful time!
Posted on
A
ana young
May 15, 2026
I had such a wonderful experience kayaking the Dora Canal on mother's day. What a perfect day to celebrate with my son! The best part of our trip was when Katrina, the owner, gave me a few roses for mother's day! It was a nice and thoughtful gesture 🤗 If you are looking for an easy outing on the lake, be sure to check out this outfitter for kayak and paddleboat rentals. You will be getting on Lake Dora & Lake Eustis, two lakes that are mostly calm and easy to navigate 🛶 It's also very important to start as early as possible to avoid the afternoon boat traffic. #highlyrecommended
Posted on
C
Chris Carpenter
May 13, 2026
I rarely review, unless I have a truly spectacular experience. And I'm happy to report that my kayak trip with this group was just that. Super nice staff, fantastic nature scenery, and comfortable gear. I went out on a slow Friday afternoon on a medium hot day. As soon as I got to Dora Canal, the temps dropped, and the scenery turned into pure magic. Skip Disney and head here instead.
Posted on
L
Lisa Kulsen
May 10, 2026
Had a terrific day with the kids on Mother’s Day kayaking the Dora Canal. It was so beautiful and relaxing. We saw lots of wildlife and enjoyed being out on the water. Adventure Outdoor Paddle was wonderful, I highly recommend. We’ll definitely be back!
Posted on
L
Lauren Pagel
May 10, 2026
My family and I rented 2 tandem kayaks and did the 2 hour canal tour. It was beautiful! It was covered by huge Cypress and oak trees almost the entire way so even though it was in the mid 80s, we stayed cool. There's no current in the canal so it would be perfect for beginners. We saw tons of wildlife; great blue herons, egrets, turtles, ospreys, a bald eagle and baby alligators! There was some boat traffic in the canal so the earlier you go out, the better. But overall it was, a fantastic experience. Highly recommend!
Posted on
M
Mary Ann
May 9, 2026
Our Women Doctor's club enjoyed the trip. With experienced, rusty and beginners Adventure Outdoor Paddle guides customized the trip for all levels. Tips and corrections provided and received with humor. Leaving from Tavares close to The Villages much more convenient than driving all the way to Mt. Dora. Seeing and hearing the Limkin my best memory. Going on a Friday meant less boat traffic.
Posted on
T
Teri Melton
May 8, 2026
What a wonderful experience we had today with Adventure Outdoor Paddle! Everything from check-in to tour completion was superb. Our two guides, Sue and Jimmy, were extremely knowledgeable, caring, and a whole lot of fun. I would highly recommend booking a kayaking trip with this business and to request these two guides. It was a great way to kick off my weekend.
Posted on
A
Anna Maria
May 4, 2026
What a GORGEOUS day and place to kayak! My son and I arrived a few minutes early and we were greeted by Ms. Katrina.. She was all smiles and all around lovely.. She is someone who really loves her workplace and shows it!! We checked in, Katrina gathered and transported our equipment to the launch area and got us on the water in no time.. We got to paddling and for three hours it was absolute paradise… We wanted to stay longer.. :DThank you AOP and Katrina for adding to the special time of my son’s visit here in Florida..We had a wonderful time and are already thinking of plans to come back!!Blessings..
Posted on
A
Ally Southgate
May 3, 2026
Katrina reached out a couple day before me and my friend’s reservation that due to the weather front coming in, she thought it was better for us to launch from a park on the canal rather than on the lake. This ended up being a great change and we had a much smoother trip down the river and an all together great day. Thank so much!
Posted on
G
gulfbeachgroupie
Apr 28, 2026
Katrina gave us a wonderful tour of the canal. I had no idea how beautiful it was. She knew all the birds and wildlife and was so much fun to be with. Being only our 2nd time kayaking, we were not particularly good at it, but she was extremely patient and helpful in getting us steered down the canal. It is shady and beautiful and an easy fun trip to do, regardless of skill level. Perfect for nature lovers or anyone wanting a relaxing experience.
Posted on
L
Leslie Boucher
May 16, 2026
Had a great time Kayaking! The scenery was beautiful! The guide was very helpful getting us started. It was a busy boat day and she helped us get out where it was easier. Had a wonderful time!
Posted on
AS SEEN IN
WHO We ARE
Experience The Best And Wildest Dora Canal Tours
Central Florida's wild beauty awaits with our unforgettable Dora Canal paddle tours. Paddle along with our full-service kayak rentals and private tours that allow you to feel the gentle sun on your shoulders as you take in the colorful flora and fauna populating Lake Dora, Lake Beauclair, Lake Eustis, and the rest of the Harris Chain of Lakes.
As you paddle down passageways shaded by majestic cypress trees, you're likely to see fluttering birds, playful otters, and other wildlife commonly found in Tavares and the Mount Dora area. Our friendly, experienced tour guides share information about the history and ecology of the area during amazing tours that open up new worlds few tourists ever get to see.
At Adventure Outdoor Paddle, we’re all about sharing our love for the great outdoors! Our team is here to ensure you have a fantastic time as you explore the stunning beauty of the Dora Canal. We believe that every paddle stroke brings you closer to nature, and we’re excited to help you discover the hidden gems of Central Florida.
Paddle the dora canal
Choose Your Adventure
Start with our most loved ways to experience the Dora canal
Popular Experiences
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
2 to 8
Wild Florida on the Dora Canal
Glide into a slower pace of life as you paddle through the wild beauty of the Dora Canal, where towering cypress trees stretch overhead and Spanish moss sways gently in the breeze. The air smells fresh and earthy, birdsong echoes through the canopy, and the glassy water reflects shades of green you don’t see anywhere else in Florida. You’ll feel the calm rhythm of your paddle, the warmth of the sun on your shoulders, and the quiet thrill of spotting herons, egrets, turtles, and maybe even a gator tucked along the shoreline. This is the kind of place where conversations soften, worries drift away, and time seems to stand still. As your guide shares stories of the canal’s history and points out hidden details you might otherwise miss, you’ll leave feeling relaxed, reconnected, and grateful for a rare moment to truly unplug and be present in nature.
from
$69
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
2 to 5
Fly Out Paddle In Tour
Take your adventure to new heights with a seaplane flight followed by a peaceful guided paddle through some of Florida’s most scenic waterways. Experience one of the most unique adventures in Florida with our Fly Out Paddle In Tour. Your journey begins with an unforgettable seaplane flight above the Harris Chain of Lakes, where you will take in stunning aerial views of winding waterways, cypress forests, and shoreline wildlife. After landing, the adventure continues on the water as you paddle with our experienced guides through peaceful, scenic waterways at a relaxed pace. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and other wildlife while soaking in the quiet beauty that makes this area so special. This tour blends thrill and tranquility, pairing the excitement of flight with the calm and immersive experience of paddling in nature. It is the perfect way to see Lake County from two unforgettable perspectives and create memories you will not find anywhere else.
from
$189.99
Duration
2 to 4 hours
Group Size
Up to 1
Premium Single Kayak Rental
Set off on a peaceful solo adventure with our Premium Single Kayak Rental, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the Dora Canal and the Harris Chain of Lakes at your own pace. Our 11'6" sit-on-top kayaks are stable, easy to use, and designed for comfort, featuring supportive aluminum frame seating to keep you relaxed while you paddle. Whether it’s your first time kayaking or you’re an experienced paddler, these premium kayaks are ideal for a smooth and enjoyable ride on calm, scenic waters. This self-guided experience is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, connect with nature, or enjoy some quiet time on the water. As you explore, you’ll paddle beneath cypress trees and along peaceful waterways, with opportunities to spot birds, turtles, fish, and other local wildlife. When you arrive, our friendly team will review a route map with you and recommend the best paddle options based on your rental time and comfort level. We’ll also provide basic paddling instructions and a safety overview before you launch, so you feel confident and ready to go. No experience required. Just show up, hop in, and enjoy one of Central Florida’s most beautiful paddling destinations.
from
$40
Duration
2 to 4 hours
Group Size
Up to 2
Premium Double Kayak Rental
Explore together with our Premium Double Kayak Rental, the perfect way for couples, friends, and families to share a relaxing adventure on the water. This two-person (tandem) kayak experience lets you paddle side by side through the scenic beauty of the Dora Canal in the Harris Chain of Lakes. Our double kayaks are stable, comfortable, and beginner-friendly, making them ideal for both first-time paddlers and experienced kayakers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature escape, a fun outdoor date, or a memorable way to explore Central Florida, this rental offers the perfect blend of connection and adventure. As you paddle, you’ll glide beneath cypress trees and along calm waterways, with opportunities to spot birds, turtles, fish, and other local wildlife. The Dora Canal’s old Florida charm creates a truly immersive setting that feels far removed from the busy tourist crowds. When you arrive, our friendly local team will review a route map with you and recommend the best paddle options based on your rental time and comfort level. We’ll also provide basic paddling instructions and a safety overview before you launch, so you feel confident and ready to enjoy your time on the water. No experience required — just grab your paddle and enjoy one of Central Florida’s most scenic shared adventures.
from
$60
Why choose us?
We're The #1 Company For Kayaking In Central Florida
Our highly rated Tavares paddle tours offer so many ways to relax on the water! Choose from our themed guided kayak and paddleboard tours, rentals, and unique experiences throughout Florida's most scenic lakes. All experience levels are welcome. You can even partner up with a tandem kayak that offers the perfect bonding experience during a day on the lake.
We also offer paddle experiences that combine a scenic day of gliding along on the water with food and drinks at top local spots once you get back to the beach. Each immersive, enriching paddle experience comes with 5-star customer service and a fair cancellation policy. In short, we offer the best paddle board and kayaking experiences on the Dora Canal! Let’s dive in and see why:
Scenic
We guide you merrily along Florida's most peaceful and soothing waterways. This is a true escape to nature in the Mount Dora area that combines the thrill of paddling with the serenity of the calm and...
We guide you merrily along Florida's most peaceful and soothing waterways. This is a true escape to nature in the Mount Dora area that combines the thrill of paddling with the serenity of the calm and surreal Dora Canal. Our eco tours bring guests through lush, colorful landscapes you simply can't see anywhere else. Prepare to discover a perfectly balanced ecosystem canopied by majestic cypress trees clothed in thick Spanish moss. Step back in time as you glide through the historic Dora Canal, where lush vegetation flourishes in a protected wetland area, sunlight dances across gentle ripples, and a lively array of aquatic creatures flutters and dives, their curious eyes capturing the magic of this timeless natural treasure.
Relaxing
Your comfort and relaxation are prioritized during every tour with us! We offer dual kayaks and kayaks for a single person. Each premier kayak is designed for comfort and stability to ensure that you ...
Your comfort and relaxation are prioritized during every tour with us! We offer dual kayaks and kayaks for a single person. Each premier kayak is designed for comfort and stability to ensure that you relax as you're guided along the Dora Canal under the supervision of our experienced, friendly crew. During your tour, you can simply settle into your kayak for some fun on the lake with the peace of mind of knowing that our local experts will guide your way. From adventurous seaplane and paddle excursions to unforgettable nature experiences with the family, these waterways offer something for everyone.
Wildlife-Filled
Our premier paddle tours along Lake Dora and the Dora Canal are so much fun because you never know who will show up! From otters to alligators, the wildlife here can get quite animated. Guests on our ...
Our premier paddle tours along Lake Dora and the Dora Canal are so much fun because you never know who will show up! From otters to alligators, the wildlife here can get quite animated. Guests on our tours commonly see herons, egrets, and ospreys wading along the shore or flying overhead. Curious turtles are also sometimes spotted poking their heads above the surface of the water. You can also expect to see schools of fish gliding with purpose inches from your paddle. Don't worry about trying to keep an eye out. Our crew will let you know when we have "visitors" during your tour experience.
Location
Discover Tavares, Florida - A Hidden Gem For Adventure Seekers
Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Dora, Tavares offers easy access to some of the Sunshine State’s most scenic waterways. Known as America’s Seaplane City, this charming lakefront town has a rich history tied to aviation and water recreation, dating back to the first recorded seaplane flight here in 1914. Today, its unique geography continues to make it an ideal destination for paddling, boating, and exploring the natural beauty of Central Florida.
But Tavares is more than a gateway to the famous Dora Canal—it’s a destination worth exploring on its own. Visitors enjoy a picturesque waterfront, inviting parks, and scenic walking paths, all set against the relaxed pace of small-town lake life.
Downtown Tavares offers something for everyone, from seaplane tours and live music to locally loved restaurants, bars, and gathering spaces along the water. Whether you're here for a day of paddling, a sunset flight, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, Tavares has a way of making every visit feel like a mini vacation.
Frequently asked questions
Most frequent questions and answers
Adventure Outdoor Paddle is located on the waterfront in Tavares, Florida, with easy access to Lake Dora and the scenic Dora Canal, part of the Harris Chain of Lakes. When you paddle with us, you can expect a relaxed and immersive experience surrounded by towering cypress trees, calm waterways, and abundant wildlife. On guided tours, our knowledgeable guides share insights about the area’s wildlife, vegetation, and history, while rentals allow you to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re new to paddling or have experience on the water, the route is enjoyable and accessible for a wide range of skill levels. Boat traffic on the Harris Chain of Lakes can be busier on weekends, especially in warmer months. For the most peaceful conditions, we recommend launching in the morning when the canal is typically at its calmest.
No experience is needed. Our guided tours are designed to be relaxed and beginner-friendly, and we provide basic instruction before launching. The paddle route is calm and easy to follow, making it enjoyable for first-time paddlers as well as those with experience.
Our recommended paddle route is approximately 3 miles roundtrip, and most paddlers complete it in about two hours at a relaxed pace. If you enjoy taking your time, stopping for photos, or exploring along the way, a 3-hour rental allows for a more leisurely experience. For those planning to paddle beyond the canal and stop at Fish Camp on Lake Eustis for lunch or a drink, we recommend a 4-hour rental so you can enjoy your stop without feeling rushed.
The Dora Canal is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, fish, and occasionally alligators. Every trip is different, but there’s always something interesting to see along the way.
Yes, alligators live in the waters of the Dora Canal and the Harris Chain of Lakes—they’re a natural and important part of Florida’s ecosystem. The good news is that alligators are typically shy and prefer to avoid people. It’s very common to see them resting along the shoreline or quietly swimming away as paddlers approach. The most important rule is simple: give wildlife space and enjoy observing from a distance. If you can take a selfie with a gator, you’re definitely too close! A few helpful tips to keep in mind: Alligators naturally avoid people and rarely approach boats or paddlers. Never feed alligators or other wildlife. Feeding wildlife is illegal in Florida and can make animals lose their natural fear of humans. Stay aware of your surroundings and respect wildlife from a distance. Our tours and rental routes take place during daylight hours, which is the best and safest time to be on the water. If you ever notice an alligator behaving unusually or posing a concern, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) operates a Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.
Yes! We operate from a public park in downtown Tavares, and launching on Lake Dora is free. You’re welcome to use the beach area we launch from. If you see us set up, feel free to stop by and say hello—we always enjoy meeting fellow paddlers and are happy to share route tips and local advice. On weekends, we also carry a small selection of paddling essentials and merchandise, including waterproof phone cases, dry bags, sunscreen, hats, and shirts in case you need something for your trip. If winds are strong on Lake Dora, an excellent alternative launch is Summerall Park (1001 Wells Ave, Tavares), located near the entrance to the Dora Canal. From there, you can enjoy a scenic paddle through the canal toward Lake Eustis before turning around and returning to your launch point, often in calmer conditions.
Yes! We’re animal lovers, and well-behaved pets are welcome to join you on your paddle adventure. Because we operate from a public city park, pets are required to remain on a leash while on land, so be sure to bring one with you. For time on the water, we strongly recommend a properly fitted pet life vest. Even strong swimmers can tire, and a life vest makes it much easier to help your pet back onto a kayak or paddle board if needed. We also suggest bringing a water bowl and fresh water to keep your pet comfortable and hydrated in the Florida heat.
Stay Updated
Join our newsletter for occasional updates on special events, wildlife sightings, and paddling tips from the Dora Canal. No spam—just the good stuff from the water.
BLOG
Recent News
December 28, 2025
2025: A Year of Resilience, Adventure & Community
As we reflect on 2025 at Adventure Outdoor Paddle, one word rises above the rest: adaptation. This year brought fewer environmental challenges than we...
Read More
November 8, 2025
Things to Do in Florida for the Holidays
The holidays in Florida are something truly special. While much of the country is bundled up indoors, here in Lake County, the air is crisp, the sun i...
Read More
Book Your Paddle Adventure.
Experience the beauty, wildlife, and quiet charm of the Dora Canal—one of Florida’s most scenic waterways.
Excellent
350 Verified reviews