5K+ Adventures 4.8 Avg Book Direct

Adventure, Curated

Explore 5,000+ human-powered experiences — handpicked outdoor adventures for all skill levels with max stoke, zero hassle.

Local Legends, Real Reviews

We partner with the best in the business — trusted local outfitters and guides who know the trails, tides, and terrain. Backed by 185,000+ reviews, averaging 4.8⭐

Book Direct, Best Price Guarantee

Get the best price, availability, and flexibility you need by booking directly with the outfitter or guide.

Protect What You Love

Your adventure gives back. Every booking supports conservation and keeps wild places wild.

logo

Rainbow Springs Waterfall Hike & Paddleboard Tour

Guided
See all hiking tours in Dunnellon
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Beginner Friendly
Free Cancellation
On the Water
Instant Book
Duration: 4 hours

Pricing

Adult

Ages 13+

$145
Child

Ages 4 to 12

$135

All Prices

Adult

Ages 13+

$145
Child

Ages 4 to 12

$135

Description

Enjoy Florida’s Crystal Clear Rainbow Springs & Waterfall Hike!

Paddle into one of Florida's most spectacular freshwater ecosystems on this extended 4-hour guided adventure at Rainbow Springs — the fourth-largest spring in the state and a designated Registered Natural Landmark, Aquatic Preserve, and Outstanding Florida Waterway.
Launching from KP Hole Park on the Rainbow River in Dunnellon, FL, this tour takes you everything covered on the standard scenic paddle — upstream through crystal-clear, spring-fed waters past turtles, fish, and playful river otters, with a stop at a hidden creek oasis where you can step off your board into the refreshing shallows — and then goes further. The extended route continues toward the headspring of Rainbow Springs, with a stop at Gar Cove before arriving at Rainbow Springs State Park for a leisurely guided hike to three historic man-made waterfalls set within the park's lush, tropical landscape.
After taking in the waterfalls, guests have the opportunity to take a dip in the crystal-clear headspring before returning to their boards for a relaxing downstream float — guided by the gentle current all the way back to the original launch point at KP Hole Park!

Duration

  • 4 Hours
  • We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to account for possible lines when paying park fees.
  • This extra time ensures all guests can check in and be fully prepared, including applying sunscreen and being dressed and ready for your adventure!

Location / Where to Meet

  • Check in/ Departure Address: KP Hole Park 9435 SW 190th Avenue Road, Dunnellon, FL 34432
  • Located approximately 1.5 hours north of Orlando, making this a popular day trip from the greater Orlando area. The tour launches directly from the park!
  • Parking: Parking is available at KP Hole Park. A $10 park admission fee per guest is required and paid directly at the park on the day of the tour (not included in the tour price).

Ages & Requirements

  • Minimum Age: 4 years old
  • All guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  • Ages 4 to 12: Must ride on the same board as a parent or guardian (max 2 riders, max weight 350 lbs / 159 kg per board).
  • Exception: Children under 13 with prior paddleboarding experience may be permitted their own board at the guide's discretion on the day of the tour.
  • Ages 13 to 17: May paddle their own board but must remain next to a parent or guardian for the full duration of the tour.
  • The maximum weight per board is 350 lbs / 159 kg.
  • Pets and alcohol are not permitted on the tour.
  • Please note that all guests participating must sign the online waiver.
  • Please bring a reusable water bottle: Keep hydrated with a reusable water bottle. PLEASE NOTE, RAINBOW SPRINGS REQUIRES THE USE OF REUSABLE CONTAINERS ONLY, STRICTLY ENFORCED.
  • Each participant must be a confident swimmer, comfortable in and around the water, and fully mobile and in good physical condition to join this tour. Paddleboarding is a physical activity.

What's Included

  • Guided 4-hour paddle board and hiking eco tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
  • NIXY Paddle Board & Paddle
  • PFD (Personal Floatation Device) & Whistle
  • Dry Bag
  • Paddle & Water Safety Instructions
  • Premium Photo & Video Package
  • Optional Paddle Board Kayak Hybrid Style can be selected at checkout.
  • Bring Your Own Vessel: This option allows you to bring your own paddleboard or kayak and receive an automatic $20 discount at checkout.

Not Included

  • KP Hole Park admission fee: $10 per guest, paid directly at the park
  • Gratuity — never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10–25% to your guide!

What to Bring / Wear

  • Swimsuit or Quick-Drying, Light, Breathable Clothing
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Keep hydrated with a reusable water bottle. PLEASE NOTE, RAINBOW SPRINGS REQUIRES THE USE OF REUSABLE CONTAINERS ONLY, STRICTLY ENFORCED.
  • Water shoes or sandals with straps that can get wet
  • Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and Warm Hats 
  • Reef-Safe Sunscreen — IMPORTANT: Do NOT apply sunscreen to the back of your legs, as it can cloud the kayak's clarity and cannot be cleaned off
  • Mosquito Repellent (Please use a Deet-Free Repellent)
  • Snacks
  • Required paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
  • Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
  • Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get lost or damaged by the water.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Otter Paddle Orlando

FAQs

What wildlife can I see on the Rainbow Springs tour? 

The Rainbow River is teeming with life. Guests commonly spot river otters, turtles, a wide variety of fish (including gar), and birds. The crystal-clear water means you can often see wildlife swimming beneath your board. Scuba divers exploring the underwater caves below are also commonly seen along the route.

Are there alligators in Rainbow Springs? 

Alligator sightings are very rare on this tour. The popularity of the area among paddlers, swimmers, boaters, and divers tends to deter their presence. Guides are experienced in navigating these waters safely and guest safety is always the priority.

Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?

No prior experience is needed — this tour is beginner friendly. Your guide will provide a full land-based safety briefing and paddling instruction before you launch. All guests must be comfortable and confident swimmers, however.

Do I need to know how to swim? 

Yes. All participants must be confident swimmers and comfortable in and around the water. Life jackets are provided, but swimming ability is required for everyone's safety.

Is a sitting paddleboard hybrid option available? 

Yes! A paddle board/kayak hybrid setup is available at no extra cost. This option features a premium foldable SUP seat and a kayak paddle attached to the same board. Select it at the time of booking.

Can I bring my own paddle board? 

Absolutely! You're welcome to bring your own paddle board or kayak on our guided tours. During the reservation process, simply select the 'Bring My Own' option, and a $20 discount will automatically be applied.

Furthermore, your guided tour covers all park fees and includes our favorite photo and video package.

Friendly reminder: please plan to arrive early to ensure ample time for setting up your equipment before the tour's check-in time. Being prepared beforehand ensures a smooth and timely start to your adventure. Additionally, remember to bring all necessary equipment and be ready to go at the scheduled check-in time for the tour.

Will photos be taken of us? 

Yes — a professional photo and video package is included with every tour at no extra cost. Your guide captures highlights throughout the adventure, and the photos and videos are delivered to you by email the day after your tour.

Can I bring my phone or camera? 

Yes. A dry bag is provided. You are welcome to bring your phone or camera — just keep in mind that the complimentary photo/video package means you won't miss out even if you prefer to keep electronics safely stored.

What is the minimum group size to run a tour? 

A minimum of 2 guests is required to operate any tour. If you book as a solo guest, you will be contacted if no additional guests book within 24 hours of the tour — in that case, you may reschedule or receive a full refund.

Are pets allowed on the tour? 

No — We share your love for animals and understand the importance of family pets. However, please note that our tours do not permit pets. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

At Otter Paddle Orlando, we understand that plans may change, and we strive to accommodate our guests whenever possible. However, last-minute cancellations impact our operations and limit availability for others. To ensure fairness and efficient service, we have established the following policies.

Cancellations Made in Advance: Cancellations made 72 hours or more before the scheduled booking date are eligible for a full refund. If a cancellation occurs within 72 hours of the booking date, guests may choose to reschedule or receive a gift card. Unfortunately, cancellations made on the day of the booking, as well as late arrivals and no-shows, are not eligible for a refund.

Late Arrival Policy: We allow a 10-minute grace period for guests who may be delayed. After this grace period, we are unable to accommodate late arrivals, as it may disrupt the experience for other guests. Guests who cancel on the day of their tour, arrive after the 10-minute grace period, or do not show up but contact us on the day of their reservation may receive a gift card. However, a $75 rescheduling fee must be paid to obtain the gift card. Guests who contact us after the scheduled tour date will not be eligible for a refund, reschedule, or gift card.

Weather Policy: For the safety of our guests, Otter Paddle Orlando reserves the right to cancel tours in the event of unsafe weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or any other reason that may compromise guest safety. While we do operate in light rain, if a tour is canceled by Otter Paddle Orlando due to weather or safety concerns, guests will have the option to reschedule their tour or receive a gift card for future use. Please note that refunds will not be issued in these circumstances.

All policies are strictly enforced to ensure fairness and smooth operations. Gift cards issued by Otter Paddle Orlando do not expire, providing guests with the flexibility to reschedule at their convenience. This cancellation policy is subject to change. We will make every effort to communicate updates in advance, and we recommend reviewing our policy at the time of booking.

By booking with Otter Paddle Orlando, guests acknowledge and agree to comply with the policies outlined above.

Read more
Read more

Availability

October 2026

SuMoTuWeThFrSa

Reviews

Location

Address

9435 Southwest 190th Avenue Road

Dunnellon, FL, 34432

US

Get Directions

ASK THE LOCAL EXPERT

Explore More