Explore Lake Ponte Vedra and the GTM Reserve Like Never Before with On Property Kayak & SUP Launch Access
May 30, 2026
Explore Guana From the Water
There is no better way to experience the natural beauty of the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve or locally known as the GTM than from the water. With the Guana Outpost, guests have the opportunity to launch kayaks and stand up paddleboards directly from both locations:
North Guana Outpost: 4415 Mickler Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Guana Outpost, South: 600 Guana River Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
These access points make it easier than ever to explore scenic waterways, spot local wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful day outside immersed in one of Northeast Florida’s most beautiful coastal environments.
Paddle, Explore, and Experience Guana
Whether you are looking for a relaxing paddle through calm waters, an early morning nature cruise, or a fun outdoor activity with friends and family, the Guana Outpost offers direct access at two great locations to one of Northeast Florida’s most beautiful coastal environments.
From first-time paddlers to experienced outdoor enthusiasts, launch access at North Guana Outpost and Guana Outpost, South creates a seamless experience to get on the water quickly and start exploring immediately. Bring your sense of adventure and enjoy everything Guana has to offer, from winding estuaries and salt marshes to unforgettable sunset views.
Looking to explore even more? The South Guana location offers additional launch opportunities and access points to experience another side of Guana’s incredible ecosystem.
Come paddle, explore, and experience Guana from the water.
Wildlife at Lake Ponte Vedra and Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve (GTM)
Reptiles & Amphibians
- American alligator
- Diamondback terrapin (coastal turtle often seen in estuaries)
- Green anole
- Brown and green snakes (including water snakes in marsh areas)
- Southern toad and other marsh amphibians
Marine & Estuarine Life 
- Bottlenose dolphins (very common in the Intracoastal and inlets)
- West Indian manatees (seasonal in warmer months)
- Blue crabs
- Horseshoe crabs
- Shrimp, mullet, and other estuarine fish species
Birds (Huge Diversity Here!) 
- Ospreys (often seen diving for fish)
- Great blue herons
- Snowy egrets and great egrets
- Roseate spoonbills (bright pink, especially in marshes)
- Bald eagles
- Brown pelicans
- Black skimmers and shorebirds along beaches
Fish & Aquatic Species 
- Redfish (red drum)
- Spotted seatrout
- Flounder
- Tarpon (seasonal, especially near inlets)
- Sheepshead and black drum
Mammals (less often seen, but present)
- White-tailed deer (in upland areas)
- Raccoons
- Marsh rabbits
- River otters (occasionally spotted near creeks and marsh edges)
- Bobcats (rare, but present deeper in protected areas)
See you on the water!
North Guana Outpost - Helping adventurers choose their perfect paddle since 2014
