All Inclusive Cypress Springs Eco Adventure with GoPro

Exploring Cypress Springs: An Authentic Florida Spring Adventure

If you’re looking for a break from sunbathing on the sandy beaches of Destin, this All Inclusive Cypress Springs Eco Adventure offers an engaging way to connect with Florida’s natural springs. Priced at $125 per person and lasting around 6 hours and 30 minutes, this tour takes you slightly inland to some of the area’s most striking cold springs, fed by natural caves and maintaining a cool 70 degrees year-round. Led by personable guides, you’ll paddle through Holmes Creek, snorkel with an underwater scooter, and document your experience with a GoPro—an activity that appeals to adventurers and photo buffs alike.

Two things we love about this trip are the stunning clarity of the spring water—which exceeds 100 feet of visibility—and the guide’s expertise, especially when demonstrating snorkeling gear and ensuring everyone gets the most out of their experience. The second highlight is the included equipment and thoughtful amenities like beach chairs, towels, and bottled water, which make the day feel effortless.

One potential consideration is the group size and physical requirements. The tour needs a minimum of 6 guests to run, and some paddling upriver requires moderate fitness. Children under 12 should be paired with an adult, which might not suit families with very young kids. This adventure is best suited for active travelers who love nature, want a taste of authentic Florida springs, and enjoy a bit of guided exploration.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and the chance to try kayaking and snorkeling in a tranquil setting, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic natural environment: Experience crystal-clear springs fed by caves, with over 100 feet of visibility.
• Inclusive amenities: All equipment, lunch, and beach gear are provided, making it a hassle-free adventure.
• Guided expertise: Guides like Dave and David are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enriching your experience.
• Versatile activities: Kayaking, SUP, snorkeling, and underwater filming with a GoPro ensure a variety of ways to enjoy the water.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children over 12 with an adult, though some paddling effort is involved.
• Small group size: Max 16 travelers, allowing for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Cypress Springs Eco Adventure

When we think of outdoor activities in Florida, many picture beaches and theme parks, but this tour flips that expectation by introducing travelers to a different kind of natural beauty. Just a short drive from Destin, Cypress Springs and Holmes Creek offer a peaceful escape into one of the area’s most pristine ecosystems. This tour delivers not only a chance to see stunning waters but also an educational experience, thanks to guides who know the area well and are eager to share their insights.

The Journey Begins: Meeting Point and Transport

Starting at 4425 Commons Dr E in Destin, the experience kicks off early at 9:00 am. The tour mobilizes with a small group—up to 16 people—which fosters a friendly, intimate vibe. Transportation to the site involves a bit of a drive, but that’s part of the adventure, giving you time to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

Holmes Creek: The Gateway to Nature’s Playground

Once on-site, your guide will help you gear up with kayaks or paddleboards. We particularly appreciate the flexibility offered—you can choose between kayaking or SUP depending on your preference. The upstream paddling involved in reaching Cypress Springs requires some effort but rewards you with the serenity and beauty of the waterway. As reviewer James noted, there’s a bit of a wait before the adventure truly begins, but once on the water, it’s all about the fun.

Cypress Springs: The Crystal Clear Wonder

The main attraction is Cypress Springs —a water-fed cave spring with visibility exceeding 100 feet. The water remains a cool 70 degrees, inviting for a quick swim or snorkel. The guides are adept at demonstrating how to snorkel effortlessly with an underwater scooter, allowing you to glide and take in the submerged scenery without tiring. This is a major plus for those new to snorkeling or looking to maximize their underwater viewing.

Snorkeling and Filming with a GoPro

What separates this tour from others is the inclusion of a GoPro with mounts, so you can capture your adventures hands-free. Several reviews, like that by Natpanee V, highlight how much they loved documenting their experience: “The tour was provided everything we need, even towel and beach chairs for all of us and kayak camping and lunch. Best deal!”

Lunch and Amenities

The provided lunch, bottled water, and beach gear make the day comfortable and relaxing. The provision of towels and beach chairs means you won’t need to bring your own, and the included sunscreen helps protect you during the sunny Florida day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides and Their Local Knowledge

Reviewers consistently praised guides like Dave and David for their friendly demeanor and expertise. They are attentive, helpful, and genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge of the local ecosystem. This personal touch adds depth to the experience, turning it from a simple water outing into an educational and memorable adventure.

The Stunning Views and Water Clarity

Travelers frequently mention how crystal-clear the water is, which makes snorkeling not just enjoyable but magical. For many, seeing underwater caves and vibrant aquatic life in such pristine visibility is a highlight.

The Value of All-Inclusive Pricing

At $125, this tour offers significant value, considering all gear, lunch, and amenities are included. For active travelers wanting to explore beyond the beaches, it’s a cost-effective way to access a unique ecosystem and try different water activities.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While many reviews are positive, some mention logistical issues like parking or the crowding at Cypress Springs during peak times (noted during July 4th). Also, because the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, it might not be ideal for those with mobility concerns or young children. The group size cap ensures a personalized experience, but it also means you’ll want to book early, as it’s popular—average booking occurs 17 days in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who are active and curious about nature, particularly those who enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, or photography. It’s ideal for families with children over 12, groups of friends, or solo explorers eager to see a more authentic side of Florida’s spring waters. If you appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable hosts and want memorable photos of your trip, this one checks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Cypress Springs Eco Adventure offers a refreshing alternative to crowded beaches, giving travelers a chance to experience Florida’s clear waters and lush ecosystems in a relaxed, guided setting. With friendly guides, included gear, and beautiful scenery, it’s a great choice for those seeking a hands-on, authentic outdoor experience.

The combination of kayaking, snorkeling, and filming makes this tour versatile and fun, especially for those who want to capture memories from their adventure. It’s a well-rounded outing that balances active exploration with comfort and convenience.

If you’re looking for a small-group adventure that combines nature, water activities, and expert guidance, this trip is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want to escape the beach and discover a hidden gem of Florida’s natural springs.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the springs?
Transportation is not explicitly mentioned as included, but the meeting point is at a designated location in Destin, from where you’ll start your adventure. The drive to the site involves a short journey.

What should I bring with me?
Since the tour provides all gear, beach chairs, towels, and sunscreen, you mainly need to wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and bring a sense of adventure. You may want to bring a waterproof camera or phone for extra photos.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 should be paired with an adult, and moderate physical fitness is recommended. Paddling upriver might be challenging for some, so consider your children’s comfort with water activities.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 17 days ahead, so early planning is advisable to secure your spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the water temperature suitable for swimming?
Absolutely. The water remains a cool 70 degrees year-round, perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkel.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

In essence, the Cypress Springs Eco Adventure offers a hands-on, scenic, and educational day out in Florida’s natural springs. It’s a great fit for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see a different side of Destin beyond the beaches.