Get The Island Vacation Experience At This Under-The-Radar Florida Destination

One thing is for sure: Orlando, Florida, is the land of theme parks. From the Walt Disney World Resort to LEGOLAND Florida, visiting Orlando is a whirlwind. But less than 30 minutes away is Longwood, a charming small town for relaxing and unwinding. Longwood is home to Wekiva Island, a hidden gem where visitors can escape the crowds. Located on the Wekiva River, minutes from Wekiwa Springs State Park, this dazzling destination will make visitors feel as if they are on a distant island rather than in Central Florida.

Visitors can lounge by the Wekiva River and swim in the temperate waters. Wekiva Island also offers cabana rentals so they can decompress in comfort. The cabanas vary in size, price, and capacity (and can accommodate up to 40 people!). Those who want to make a reservation for a cabana can do so online. Prices start at $75. However, rental prices are higher on the weekends.

Furthermore, Wekiva Island has an on-site bar, the Tooting Otter, which offers beer, wine, and live music performances. There is also the Without A Paddle Cafe, where visitors can dine on seafood and American classics like burgers and hotdogs. The eatery is open daily, but hours vary. In addition to libations and meals, Wekiva Island has plenty of outdoor adventures.

Tripadvisor reviewers recommend kayaking on Wekiva Island, citing its gorgeous natural beauty and abundant wildlife. One reviewer said they kayaked from the island to nearby Wekiwa Springs State Park. Of the experience, they said, "Kayaking to the springs was beautiful! We saw lots of turtles, some alligators, and some wading birds." Luckily, Wekiva Island has onsite kayak rentals for one to two people. Prices for the former range from $35 to $45 a day and the latter from $45 to $55 a day.

Other timeless activities to enjoy in Florida are canoeing and paddleboarding — and rentals are also available on Wekiva island. Prices range from $40 to $50 per day. Alternatively, you could bring your equipment. The launching fee ranges from $10 to $20. All rentals include life vests. These activities are self-guided, but if you prefer, Paddleboard Orlando offers a 2.5-hour beginner's paddleboard tour from Wekiva Island to Wekiwa Springs State Park. Prices range from $35 to $65. 

There is also an art gallery above the Tooting Otter. Gallery CERO displays breathtaking nature-themed works. It's open Friday through Sunday from 12:00 to 7:00 p.m. If you're interested in visiting Monday through Thursday, contact CERO Gallery for an appointment.

Wekiva Island is open daily at 8:00 a.m. During summer, from Sunday to Thursday, it closes at 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The hours do change seasonally, and if you visit Wekiva Island during the high season in the summer, you will likely be charged a $5 admission fee. That said, do not bring your fur baby or pack food or drinks in a cooler with you; neither are allowed at Wekiva Island. 

However, if you are kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, you can bring a small cooler, but everything must be consumed away from Wekiva Island. Be wary of these policies, as reviewers on Tripadvisor say that Wekiva Island is stringent about these rules. If you participate in any of the aforementioned water sports, you must complete a waiver online.

Kids are welcome to join in on the water sports as well. If this is the case, click on the option that states "Adult & Minor(s) when filling out the waiver. Note that all rentals need to be back at Wekiva Island by 6:00 p.m. Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty at Wekiva Island, so be sure to watch little ones as they swim. To enhance your experience at Wekiva Island, check out their diverse event calendar for activities, performances, and more.