Paddle to Loggerhead Key

Loggerhead is the largest island in the park and offers great snorkeling and nearly empty beaches. A boating permit is required for all vessels in the park, including kayaks and paddle boards. Please visit the dock house information room to complete this free permit. Required equipment for any kayak use includes a PFD (Personal Floatation Device), a signaling device (typically a whistle and/or hand-held mirror) and a portable VHF radio. These items should be brought from the mainland by the kayaker, there are no services at the park. Before starting your trip: Please ask staff for any closures of protected zones. Let staff or a fellow camper know where you are going, as well as an estimated return time. Check the weather, tides, and winds. You can launch your kayak at the dinghy beach, which is between the main dock and the old south coaling dock. When you return from paddling, check back in with either a fellow camper or a park ranger.