Cinco de Mayo - Lake Maitland Island Tour

Paddle around famous estates on "Millionaire Island," wind through a lush, tropical canal, and stop to relax and swim at scenic Dog Island.

Lake Maitland boasts two beautiful islands, plus a lush canal system to explore! Gliding atop clear water you’ll spot a variety of turtles, fish, and birds. The lake is home to famous historic architecture and celebrity estates, contrasted with a completely natural and wooded island with a welcoming sandy beach.

We'll meet at Kraft Azalea Gardens, a gorgeous, cypress filled park with a picturesque, lakefront gazebo, and tons of wildlife including owls, osprey, squirrels, and more. Your instructor will assign you to quality and fitted stand up paddleboard gear and give a 10 min safety and paddling technique briefing on land. Then we'll launch and begin paddling the shoreline to view magnificent mansions. Arriving at a low bridge marks the entrance of the Isle of Sicily, a manmade island specifically developed for exclusive homes, including the famous house where architect James Gamble Rogers II made his mark, and home of celebrity comedian Carrot Top.

Crossing the cove we'll paddle through Howell Creek, a lush canal bordered with more beautiful architecture and a scenic bridge. Then we'll make our way to Dog Island, pulling up on the white, sandy beach to take a rest, swim, eat snacks, and enjoy a beverage. A couple of trails are carved through the woods for a quick hike to the other side. After we feel refreshed, we'll return on the opposite side of "Millionaire Island" for a different view, and paddle amongst the tall, free-standing cypress trees.

This paddle is all about taking in the scenery, being in the moment, and absorbing therapeutic benefits of being on the water. Trip photos included. Once we return, you're conveniently located 5 minutes from Park Ave, with a variety of boutique restaurants and shops for dinner and drinks. For those interested, we'll go to Agave Azul, our favorite Mexican restaurant in Winter Park, to refuel and refresh with delicious margaritas!

What's Included:

• 2 hour Guided Eco Tour
• Stand Up Paddle Instruction
• SUP Rentals (or BYOPaddle Craft for discount)
• Tour Photos

Stand Up Paddle Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced - Instruction included. Must know how to swim. Kids 12 years old and under may ride along with a parent for free.

Paddle Distance: about 2.5 mi including stops and breaks along the way.

Bring: Water, towel, snacks, beverages, dry change of clothes. If you're bringing your own paddle craft, a life vest and whistle are required by law.

Wear: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (with straps), wear clothing that is easy to move in and can get wet (like dry wicking workout clothes or swimwear), shoes/sandals for hiking on the island (preferably ones that can get wet).

Parking: There is a parking lot at Kraft Azalea Gardens. We meet and launch from the far east side of the park (opposite the Rollins boathouse). The restroom is on the far west side next to Rollins boathouse. The lot fills up quickly on the weekend so we recommend arriving on time and carpooling if coming with friends.

IMPORTANT: In the event of inclement weather (rain/lightening/high winds), you will be notified of a reschedule via email at least 2 hours prior to your scheduled paddle. We only reschedule so that your SUP experience will be the most safe and enjoyable one possible!

Guide: Jessica Cichra is a SUP enthusiast that has been actively paddle touring, racing, surfing, and instructing since 2009. She is the founder of Wave of Wellness, a company with a mission to empower clients through adventurous activities that enhance all areas of well-being with a focus on travel, SUP, yoga, and community. Jessica guides paddle tours in the greater Orlando area and internationally on adventure travel retreats. She is also an industry representative as a sponsored ambassador/athlete for Werner Paddles and Local Honey Designs.

Tips are highly appreciated if you believe your instruction, service, and experience to be exceptional!

*To ensure the best conditions and experience possible, the route and/or launch site are subject to change. We do our best to stick to the schedule, but duration time may vary according to the pace of the group. Thanks for understanding.

Host or Publisher Wave of Wellness