Field Trip: Kayaking at Turkey Creek Sanctuary

Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024

Location: Turkey Creek, Palm Bay, Florida

Leader Name: Steve Goff

Trip/area Description: Steve Goff will lead an easy paddle on Turkey Creek in Palm Bay. We will launch at Goode Park and paddle upstream. We will start in a developed, residential area with mangrove islands, but we will pass under Port Malabar Road and enter the Turkey Creek Sanctuary where the creek will become narrower and wooded. Turkey Creek Sanctuary was donated to City of Palm Bay and Florida Audubon Society in 1978 and is well-known as a birding hot spot during annual migration. There are hiking/walking trails in the sanctuary, but they are no longer easily accessible from the creek. We should see a variety of wading birds, and manatees are frequently seen in Turkey Creek. We will paddle downstream back to the start.

Duration of trip: 3 to 4 hours

Paddling distance: About 5 to 6 miles round trip.

Degree of difficulty, and any special instructions: Participants will need to bring or rent a kayak and have all necessary equipment for paddling. Participants need to be able to paddle the distance and able to be in a kayak for the expected duration of the trip. Make sure to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen/sun protection. We will be on the water so be sure to have any binoculars, electronics or camera equipment in protective cases.

Where you’d like participants to meet: Goode Park, 1300 Bianca Dr NE, Palm Bay, FL 32905. There is a boat ramp which we will use to launch our kayaks, and there are restrooms and parking.

There is a business offering rental kayaks on Turkey Creek: Paddling Paradise, 4220 Dixie Highway NE, Palm Bay, FL 32905. Phone (321) 258-4492. Any participants needing to rent a kayak, please contact the business directly to make arrangements, and let Steve know so that we can coordinate joining the group.

Time of meeting: 9:00 am

Number of participants limit (either individuals, or vehicles if a driving tour): 10 people.

Host or Publisher Pelican Island Audubon Society