Best Places To Kayak: Tips for Beginners and Adventurers
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
The appeal of kayaking goes beyond just exploring your local lakes and waterways.
While that can be exciting, there is also a thrill to be found in traveling to the best places to kayak.
You will be amazed by the wondrous beauty of nature and have an amazing adventure at the same time.
The best kayaking trips in the world are those that not only show you something new but also bring you somewhere unforgettable.
Do you know of any top kayak destinations near you?
If not, we’ve got a few suggestions you might want to add to your list.
Where Can I Find a Kayak When Traveling?
You can't always have your kayak with you when you travel to different places.
When traveling, it can be stressful to know where to rent a kayak.
More often than not, top kayaking destinations will offer a few options for you to consider.
Many popular kayaking areas have rental shops where you can rent kayaks for a day or a few days to explore the local scenery.
This is a great way to get a kayak without the stress of needing to travel with it.
Before choosing a place to rent from, be sure to do some research. Always check the kayak carefully before using it to ensure it is safe.
Another option is to invest in an inflatable kayak and bring that with you.
This will not always be possible, but many find that having their own kayak is a better and more affordable option than renting.
Best Places To Kayak in the USA
Recently invested in a new kayak?
Finding the best kayaking destinations is one of the most exciting parts of getting on the water.
Where could you explore next, and what sorts of wonderful adventures will you find there?
There are many glorious places to get on the water in the USA. Here are just a few of the most popular ones you can explore:
1. Tampa Bay, Florida
Going to Florida is about more than just chilling on the beach.
Instead, you will find that there is some exciting kayaking to be had in Tampa Bay, as well.
Kayaking here gives you the chance to see some amazing animals, a stunning cityscape, and so much more.
You might even see dolphins and manatees swimming alongside your kayak while making your way into the downtown Tampa area.
All in all, kayaking in the Tampa Bay area is sure to be an incredibly memorable experience.
2. San Juan River, Colorado
The San Juan River is a fantastic choice for recreational kayakers who want to take in the amazing scenery of the area.
The great thing about this is that you are guaranteed to have a peaceful and relaxing journey.
This river doesn’t require the manual power that some other areas do, and you can see some marvelous sights along the way.
Stunning sunsets, rock art, and much more can be found in this beautiful location.
3. Eleven Point National Scenic River, Missouri
Consider visiting the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri for amazing kayaking in an area with scenery as rich as its history.
Here, you can see just how beautiful nature is as you explore the rich fauna and flora while paddling down the river.
Extensive tree canopies cover the river in some areas, and tandem fishing is also a very popular recreational sport here.
There is so much to discover in Eleven Point National Scenic River that you’ll never get bored.
4. Colorado River
The Colorado River winds through many states, and it offers a variety of kayaking conditions depending on where you are.
From adrenaline-packed rapids to more relaxing flat water, you can find it all along the Colorado River.
There are only a few places in the country as beautiful as the Colorado River.
What's even more impressive is that it becomes more stunning when you experience it from your kayak.
Remember, the Colorado River is also the river that goes through the Grand Canyon.
If you are up for an extreme adventure, consider making a trip to see the beauty of the Canyon from the river that created it.
Best Kayaking Trips in the World
The best kayaking trips in the world are those that take you to top kayak destinations where you can explore not only the waters but also the surrounding areas.
Where can you experience these great excursions?
1. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
If you want to go somewhere to take in the stunning blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia is a fantastic destination.
The water here is crisp, clear, and absolutely beautiful.
The area has many different islands and archipelagoes you can explore on your kayak.
When you’re done exploring for the day, have a drink and admire the beautiful coastline sights with the friendly locals.
2. Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver Island is located in the Pacific Ocean, just off the coast of Canada.
This area has a great reputation for being exceptional for day trips on a kayak or even more extended trips when you travel around for a few days to the inlets.
Located nearby are the Discovery Islands.
These islands are known for their tidal rapids, something that more experienced kayakers may want to try out.
3. Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
Patagonia is a remote region in the south of South America governed by both Argentina and Chile.
It is home to incredibly rare sights that can only be seen from a kayak. That is, as long as you are willing to bundle up.
You can explore many mountaintop glaciers from your kayak in this region.
Not only will you see unforgettable fjords and icebergs, but you might also come across orcas, sea lions, seals, and other wildlife.
Truly, visiting this area is the adventure of a lifetime.
4. Soca River, Slovenia
Slovenia is a very popular part of Europe for kayaking, and there’s a good reason for it.
The Soca River has some of the clearest waters around, so you can have a very unique experience when kayaking there.
Additionally, the river also has a few different stretches with varying difficulties.
This means that no matter what your kayaking level is, there is a spot that will suit you.
Many of the hotels that sit along the river offer guided tours.
Because of this, you can get out on the water with an experienced guide who will help you have an amazing time.
Why not explore somewhere totally new while also getting out on the water?
Slovenia has many beautiful things to offer. Start seeing them at the Soca River.
Top Kayak Destinations: Your Own Backyard!
Not all of the best kayaking destinations are miles away.
Some of the top kayak destinations could be in your own backyard.
If you aren’t sure where to go kayaking near you, contact a local sports equipment or outdoors shop and ask for advice.
Many of the people who work at that type of store are familiar with adventuring in the area, so they can give you their personal recommendations.
Another great option is to join a local kayaking club.
Kayaking clubs with outings in and around your locality will help you safely and happily explore areas that you might be totally unfamiliar with.
Plus, it’s very exciting to explore new spots with a group of friends who love the same things you do.
Where Is the Best Place To Kayak for the First Time?
When kayaking for the very first time, you want to make sure you can learn the basics while in a safe and stable environment.
As exciting as it might be to kayak for the first time somewhere stunning, you want to make sure you are with someone experienced or that you can practice safely.
Often, the best place to do this is near your home.
Even if you feel like you don’t live near any kayaking locations, many rivers, ponds, and lakes can be great places to learn.
If you’re still feeling unsure, research some local instructors and contact them for beginner lessons.
With that base level of experience, you’ll feel more comfortable when you get to the most stunning destinations for kayaking later on.
Top Kayaking Destinations
Exploring the world is a wonderful thing, and those who love kayaking will enjoy seeing the best kayaking destinations, as well.
The best places to kayak can be found right down the street from you and in many areas around the world.
From Slovenia to Patagonia, there are many different places you can kayak and explore.
Don’t feel limited by where you can and cannot go; there is always somewhere wonderful to be found.
Let your sense of adventure guide you. In time, you’ll be able to see more and more of the top kayak destinations.
Consider these some of the first options, and add them to your list of places to see in the future.
See the world from your kayak, and you’ll be able to go on a number of fantastic adventures.
Related posts:
Sit in vs Sit on Kayak: Which Is Better?
Are Inflatable Kayaks Safe: Essential Things You Need To Know
How to Choose a Kayak Paddle: A Guide to Selecting the Correct Size
What Size Kayak Do I Need?
Do You Need To Register a Kayak: A Complete Guide for Kayak Owners in the USA
How to Store a Kayak Properly
How To Get In a Kayak?
What Is a Tandem Kayak?