After months away from the water, I finally found myself back in the embrace of Florida’s familiar warmth. The weather had returned to its signature perfection, making it the ideal day for a relaxed paddle along the Intracoastal Waterway. Launching from the sandy shore off South Beach Road—just south of Coral Cove Park in Tequesta, FL—we waded about 50 yards through the shallows, the low tide revealing a silty, murky world beneath us.
The water was calm, and the scene felt unusually quiet. No playful dolphins, no curious manatees—just the occasional sea turtle gliding by. Even the pelicans could not be bothered. But paddling along the ICW into Jupiter Inlet, then back under the Bridge Road draw bridge is always a peaceful, almost meditative paddle, until the southern winds decided to turn up the challenge, as we headed back, pushing against the wind on our return journey. Still, there’s something about being on the water, no matter the conditions, and getting our daily requirement of vitamin D.
For the best experience, paddle this location on a weekday with a west wind, which brings in clear waters, fewer boaters, and abundant wildlife. Enter about an hour before high tide. Summertime in FL is the off-season and our favorite time to paddle this spot, but wear a wide brimmed hat, sleeves and bring plenty of water.
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