If you’re searching for a paddle spot that feels like a hidden escape, Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve is a great choice. This winding waterway takes you through a mix of environments, from narrow freshwater creeks to wide-open saltwater bays. With so many routes to explore, you can keep it short and easy or turn it into a full-day adventure.
What makes Spruce Creek special is the variety of scenery along the way. Some stretches are shaded by towering oaks and palms, while others open up to mangroves and marsh grasses. Since the creek gradually shifts from freshwater to saltwater, the wildlife changes too—you might see an alligator lounging in the shallows and later spot a dolphin surfacing in the bay.
This isn’t one of those high-traffic, social media-famous paddleboarding locations, which means you can usually enjoy the water without too much company. That said, I still recommend heading out early or on a weekday for the calmest conditions.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the best paddleboard routes for all skill levels, share launch details, go over must-have gear, and help you figure out the best time to go. Whether you want a short and relaxed paddle or a long-distance journey out to the Intracoastal, Spruce Creek has options for every paddler.
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Table of Contents
- Where Is Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve?
- Why Do I Recommend Paddling Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve?
- Can You Rent Paddleboards at Spruce Creek?
- Spruce Creek Launch Details
- Paddle Routes at Spruce Creek
- Best Apps for Paddling
- Gear for Paddling Spruce Creek Preserve
- Looking for more Paddleboard Locations?
Where Is Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve?
Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve is located in New Smyrna Beach. It has multiple entrances and parking areas, depending on what part of the preserve you want to explore.
For paddling, there are three official launch points, plus one additional spot where we’ve launched from:
- Spruce Creek Park – 6250 S Ridgewood Ave, Port Orange, FL 32127
- Strickland Bay Bridge – GPS coordinates: 29°04’57.0″N 80°57’49.7″W
- Cracker Creek (Privately owned, requires a launch fee) – 1795 Taylor Road, Port Orange, FL 32128
- Divito Park (where we have launched) – 90 Divito Dr, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Spruce Creek starts as freshwater, meandering through oak- and palm-lined shores before merging into Strickland Bay and beyond, where it becomes brackish saltwater. This transition creates a unique experience with the possibility of spotting both alligators and dolphins on the same paddle.
Why Do I Recommend Paddling Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve?
One of my favorite things about paddling here is the variety. You can decide how long of a paddle you would like to have. Not only that, but you can experience the transition from freshwater to salt and see a lot of wildlife. You can keep it short and easy or go for a long, winding journey through shorelines full of oaks and palms that eventually open up to mangroves and salt marsh grasses.
It’s a beautiful paddle, and unlike some of Florida’s more well-known waterways, it’s not a trendy hotspot. That means you won’t have to battle big crowds and will have a peaceful experience.
I also love the transition from fresh to salt water. It gives paddlers the option of potentially avoiding alligators by cruising through the saltwater sections. I don’t know about you, but I never tire of seeing dolphins in the wild.
It’s one of those places where every trip feels a little different.
Can You Rent Paddleboards at Spruce Creek?
No, there are no rental facilities in Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve. However you can rent paddleboards and kayaks from other companies.
Cracker Creek
As I mentioned, Cracker Creek is a privately owned location where you can launch whatever non-motorized vessel you have.
You can also rent canoes and kayaks there and navigate Spruce Creek. They have double canoes, single kayaks, and tandem kayaks.
Three Brothers Tours
If you specifically want paddleboards, Three Brothers Tours offers tours in the preserve. They design and make their own paddleboards, too. They are gorgeous.
Spruce Creek Launch Details
Spruce Creek has several launch points, each offering a different experience. Here’s what to expect at each one.
Divito Park
This is a simple, no-frills launch for paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes.
Parking is free, and there’s a porta potty on-site.
You can pull right up to drop your gear, but there’s a slope leading down to the water.
The launch area isn’t sandy—it’s more gravelly, and oyster beds are present, so watch your footing.
Since this is a tidal area, water levels change throughout the day.
Only non-motorized vessels are allowed to launch here.
Cracker Creek
This launch gives you access to the upper part of Spruce Creek, making it a great choice if you want to explore a more remote stretch of the waterway.
There’s a fee of $8 if you bring your own vessel, with additional rental options available.
Unlike some of the other launch sites, Cracker Creek has flush toilets.
Typically, you can pull up to drop your gear before parking, but conditions may change that.
One important note—this launch is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Spruce Creek Park
This launch requires a little extra effort, but it’s another good option.
There’s a short walk from the drop-off point to the water, so be prepared to carry your gear.
Like Divito Park, this site is only for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Parking is free, and there are restrooms with flush toilets available, though not right at the launch.
You’ll need to be mindful of the tides here—at low tide, expect some mucky areas and exposed oyster beds that will make the area nearly impossible to use.
Strickland Bay Bridge
This is a popular launch, especially for those heading into open water, but it has very limited parking and no restroom facilities.
It’s open 24/7 and free to use.
Unlike the other sites, this launch allows small motorboats in addition to kayaks and canoes.
If you’re looking for a spot with easy access to Strickland Bay and beyond, this is a solid option, but keep in mind the potential boat traffic.
Paddle Routes at Spruce Creek
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Spruce Creek offers a variety of paddle routes to suit your skill level.
Easy & Beginner Paddle Route
This gentle loop is perfect for those who are new to paddleboarding.
Launch at Divito Park:
- Head east under the U.S. 1 bridge.
- Immediately after the bridge, turn left to travel parallel to U.S. 1.
- Continue following the mangrove channels, taking left turns at each fork, until you loop back to Divito Park.
Note: Be cautious of oyster beds, especially during low tide, as they can become exposed and pose a hazard.
Intermediate Paddle Route
For paddlers who are seeking a bit more adventure, there are quite a few options.
Launch at Cracker Creek:
- Paddle upstream where Spruce Creek narrows.
- Navigate around natural obstacles like downed trees and tight bends.
- Enjoy the scenic views of palms and live oaks on the shore.
Launch at Strickland Bay Bridge:
- Travel north through winding mangroves to Rose Bay.
- Head west under U.S. 1 and explore more of the bay.
- Follow the route in reverse back to the launch.
Note: Water levels can affect this route. After storms, debris may be present, so always check conditions before heading out.
Expert Paddle Route
For those who are ready to tackle a longer paddle, I have a couple of options for you.
Launch at Cracker Creek:
- Glide downstream, passing under the I-95 bridge.
- Continue through Strickland Bay, then into Turnbull Bay.
- Loop back into Strickland Bay and proceed to the Indian River/Intracoastal Waterway
- After you are done exploring, head back to Cracker Creek.
Launch at Strickland Bay Bridge:
- Make your way east through various mangroves to the Halifax River, and then on to Disappearing Island.
- The Halifax River is very boater-friendly and can be a party scene on the weekends and holidays.
- There can be strong currents.
Note: This route covers a significant distance and enters areas with increased motorboat traffic. Be prepared for open water conditions and always wear appropriate safety gear.
Best Apps for Paddling
Navigating the water isn’t just about paddling—it’s about knowing what to expect. A few reliable apps can help make your time on the water smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some of my favorites to keep your paddleboarding trips on track.
GPS Tracker
I like Strava because it maps out your route while tracking your distance and time.
This comes in handy, especially in places like the area between Strickland Bay and Rose Bay, where the maze of mangroves can get confusing.
Plus, you can share your paddles, connect with friends, and see where others are adventuring.
Launch Point Research App
The Go Paddling app is a solid resource for finding launch spots worldwide.
It’s user-driven, meaning people share their experiences—but be aware that some info may be outdated or inaccurate.
Tidal Conditions App
Surfline is my go-to for checking tide times and wave conditions before heading out.
If you’re paddling in a tidal area like the waterways in Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, knowing the tides is a must.
The app also gives you first light, sunrise, sunset, and last light times, which is helpful for planning.
Weather App
I always check two apps before heading out: the iPhone Weather App for temperature and MyRadar for a real-time look at incoming weather.
Some other paddlers swear by the WeatherBug app, which gives you:
- Live radar
- Humidity levels
- Air quality updates
- A lightning tracker
- Highs and lows for the day
- Wind speed and direction
Wind App
Windy isn’t just a fun name—it’s a great tool for checking wind speed and direction. Wind conditions can make or break a paddle, whether you’re on a lake, river, tidal water, or the ocean.
Gear for Paddling Spruce Creek Preserve
Having the right gear can make or break your paddling experience. After paddling Spruce Creek, I’ve put together a solid list of essentials to keep you comfortable and safe.
Sun Protection
Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve has some shaded areas, but there are long stretches with full sun exposure. Be ready to create your own shade!
- Hat – A snug-fitting baseball cap works, or go for a wide-brimmed hat with a strap so it doesn’t fly off.
- Sunglasses – Any sunglasses help, but polarized ones cut glare and help you see underwater obstacles. Don’t forget a strap to keep them from disappearing!
- Sunblock – Protect your skin with reef-safe, waterproof sunscreen.
- Rash Guard – A long-sleeved rash guard (bonus points for thumb holes) keeps the sun and wind off your skin.
Hydration
A reusable water bottle is a must—fill it up with cold water before heading out. I like adding electrolytes to mine for a little extra hydration and to help prevent muscle cramps.
Footwear
Your feet will get wet, even if just during launch. Also, some areas around Spruce Creek Preserve waterways have oyster beds that can cut unprotected feet.
- Water shoes – These protect your feet from sharp surfaces and are made to handle wet-dry cycles.
- Barefoot on board – Once you’re paddling, I recommend going barefoot for better foot placement and grip.
Safety Gear
Florida law requires a few key safety items for paddlers, and they’re all smart to have:
- PFD (Personal Flotation Device) – You must have one with you, and kids under 6 must wear theirs at all times. I recommend wearing one regardless of age.
- Whistle – Regulations require a “sound-producing device,” and a whistle is the easiest, cheapest option. Clip it to your PFD or wear it around your neck for quick access.
- Leash – While not required, a board leash keeps you connected to your paddleboard if you fall off.
For full details on Florida’s paddleboarding safety laws, check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Looking for more Paddleboard Locations?
I’ve got you covered with more locations and detailed routes:
- Your Guide to the Best Paddleboarding Locations in Central Florida
- Get Ready to Explore: Paddleboarding Tips and Tricks for Callalisa Creek in Central Florida
- Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: Paddleboarding in King’s Landing, Central Florida
- Discover the Magic of Paddleboarding at Blue Spring State Park
- Pick up the Florida Springs Passport that will help you find springs throughout the state. You can also stamp your visit and keep it for a cute keepsake!