When circumnavigating Rattlesnake Key, Critical Creek Is the shortest and most interesting way. There is a small cone shaped bayou half way between the bays that is quite a refuge for spawning fish and birds of prey. Sometimes the water and air become one as birds dive and fish jump.
This 3++ hr paddle round trip is my favorite for it's incredible wildlife photo opportunities, fitness exercise workout, and the big circle it makes. Exploring some of the other mangrove tunnels and hidden bayous could make this Kayak trip much longer if you decide.
Usually when paddling here I'll pass from Miguel Bay to Tampa Bay. To enter the creek: the bay narrows down to creek entrance on the left. (watch for flowing water) follow this under the mangroves until the creek widens, continue straight as the creek narrows again.
The photo shows another set of canals that intersect the creek...) but, continue on the main creek until it opens to the cone shaped bayou. To the right is the cone's tip and no kayak able water outlet to Tampa Bay.
You must cross the wide part of the bayou to find the rest of the creek to get to Tampa Bay. The wildlife here is something to behold. Parts of the creek can make you feel like you are on another planet!
As you exit the creek into Tampa Bay, keep right along the mangroves 40- 50 yards or so, then paddle directly towards the Sunshine Skyway bridge for a least 200 yards to deeper water. There is only water here during high tides so you might have to walk your kayak during periods of lower tide. If the winds are coming from the right direction, (NW) you can paddle out into Tamps Bay and let the breeze carry you back to Terra Ceia Bay.
Critical Creek and Critical Bayou
connects Miguel Bay with Tampa Bay
