Kayaking in Sombrero Beach

Florida is the only state to border the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. This sunshine state is almost completely surrounded by water so there’s no surprise to the abundance of kayak shops around. The shops in Marathon, Florida will most likely suggest Sombrero Beach. You’ll just have to state the number of hours you plan on kayaking, sign your waivers, and they’ll drop off and pick up the kayaks for you. 

Pulling into Sombrero Beach set the perfect scene for a laid-back beach day. It’s not a crowded spring break haven nor is it desolate. The beach is complete with a park and picnic area sparse with a few dog walkers and swimmers.  It is hidden behind a residential neighborhood of single-family homes, waterfront homes, and condos that grant residents easy access to clear waters. 

Once our kayak arrives we drag it onto shore. I plop myself in the front, Carlos nestles himself in the back and we’re on our cheerful way. 

There is an air of adventure as simple as it is, to kayaking. It’s not the typical lounging on a sailboat or catamaran. There’s an effort to it as you propel yourselves faster and the paddling becomes a rhythmic pattern. You’re laser-focused yet relaxed as the cooling breeze accompanies your unplanned routes. 

Once you glide past the waterfront homes there are mangrove roots you can paddle through. Feel free to wind along its labyrinth-like waterways buried in shallow green water. It’ll make great navigation practice.

Enjoy the view of seagulls hiding beside the twisting mangrove roots and small fish sweeping under your kayak from the gentle currents.

We abandon the mangrove shores towards the open seas. As we venture towards the aquamarine horizon, we spot a lone island and trudge forward. The distance may look intimidating but my yoga arms got us through!

We park our kayak along the rocky shore and cool off on our newfound island. A baby blue lawn chair and fire pit show signs of previous visitors. I scurry into the glistening shore that had been beckoning us to jump in and wash away the beads of sweat on our foreheads from paddling under the tropical sun.  We were immersed in our little oasis swimming and floating in our paradise. We felt carefree joy spotting fish and other sea life. It was the most refreshing rest stop we’ve experienced and we didn’t want it to end. But eventually, we would tire and paddle back toward Sombrero Beach satisfied with another hidden gem experience in the Florida Keys.

If you never tire of the ocean’s boundless expanse and healing embrace, this spot is worth visiting. Its rejuvenating escape provides an intimate moment with yourself, the sea, and your loved ones. You’ll surrender to a 360 view of serenity that will linger on long after you leave.