Kayaking how to Blog

Archive for June, 2009

Mexico is a country known for its tropical appeal and lush vegetation. Most people traveling to Mexico visit the popular cities of Cancun, Tijuana, and Cabo San Lucas. These places are distinguished for having miles of white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and genuine Mexican cuisine. But there’s another beautiful area of Mexico that’s a well-kept secret – Rosarito Beach. Located a short distance from the shores of Baja, California, Rosarito Beach provides an excellent opportunity to experience nature at its finest. This stretch of private paradise is famous for sights of the grey whale, and is most notable for great kayaking adventures.

If you take advantage of the kayaking opportunities available on Rosarito Beach, you’re sure to get up close and personal with the magnificent whales that inhibit the area. Rosarito Beach is located just south of the pacific coast of Baja, California, which is also known to be famous of spotting glimpses of the grey whale. You’re most likely to meet the whales during the winter months of December and January in Rosarito Beach. This is the time of year when whales make the journey from their home in the Arctic Ocean to take in the warmth of Rosarito Beach, and begin their mating and birthing season. Traveling by kayak along the waters of Rosarito Beach provides you the ultimate opportunity to take pictures, view the whales through binoculars, and simply take in the wonders of watching these amazing creatures you otherwise would never have the chance to see.

While you’re paddling through the waters of Rosarito Beach, be sure to try your hand at fishing. This would be very easy to accomplish if you plan to kayak through the waters. The waters of Rosarito Beach are known to have a wide variety of fish, and you’re likely to have the most luck just off the Coronado Islands. (These tiny, uninhibited islands are located northwest of the Rosarito Beach shoreline.) Even people who have never caught a fish before succeed around Coronado Islands!

Along with whales and fish, you are also likely to spot sea lions, manatee, and tropical birds along the shoreline of Rosarito Beach if you kayak during the warmer months. Not only will you have this once-in-a-lifetime chance to see some amazing wildlife, but you’ll also be given the opportunity to experience great photography.

Most kayaking and whale watching tours in Rosarito Beach are daytime excursions, but there are some tours that offer camping as part of an overnight addition to the tour. If you choose an overnight tour, you will set up camp along the sandy beaches of the tiny surrounding islands of Rosarito Beach. What better way to view a tropical sunset? Although most kayaking tours in Rosarito Beach are not physically challenging, you will need to be in average physical shape to participate. The waters in this area can be a bit wavy or rough at times due to the inhibiting whales, but can still be paddled through by the average person.

The chance to vacation in Hawaii is a rare opportunity for some people. Nearly everyone daydreams about feeling the sand between their toes while sipping on a pina-colada. So, if given the chance to visit Hawaii, it’s not likely one would pass it up. With miles of sandy-white beaches and emerald-green waters, it’s a place enjoyed by people of all ages. But unlike the other 49 states of America, Hawaii isn’t just one solid mass of land that can be explored through driving; it’s a chain of islands that represent the entire state. Therefore, there’s no better way to check out this amazing land of paradise than by kayak!

There are wonderful opportunities for kayaking on nearly every island of Hawaii. No matter what part of the state you plan to visit, a kayaking adventure is available at every corner. If you are planning to be in Kauai, this is a prime location for some of the best Hawaiian kayaking adventures. You can explore the waters around Hanalei Bay and have a chance to see some breathtaking Hawaiian wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the sight of bottle-nose dolphins and a beautiful assortment of aquatic birds. Kauai is also known for its many small rivers and streams that flow into the tropical rainforest, so take advantage of the opportunity to see some exotic animals and plants first-hand.

The east coast of Oahu is also a great spot to experience kayaking. Oahu is known to be one of the most relaxing places for a smooth-sailing kayaking trip. This area offers some of the calmest and serene waters in Hawaii, giving you the chance to take in some sightseeing while enjoying your time in the sun. Because of the many, small islands that surround Oahu’s coast, you can stop for a picnic lunch during your kayaking adventure.

Maui is an island of Hawaii that offers several kayaking options and adventures. Maui is home to Honolulu Bay marine preserve, where you can experience some excellent snorkeling or scuba diving. The waters surrounding Maui are ideal for the beginning kayaker, as conditions are usually calm and easy to paddle. However, if you are an experienced kayaker and looking for a challenge, then explore the island of Molokai. Here, the waters are known to be a bit rougher and offer quite a physical challenge. Please be advised that this area should be reserved for only the experienced kayakers.

If you’ve never been kayaking before, the good news is that you don’t need any experience in order to enjoy a kayaking trip in Hawaii. Kayaking is a wonderful activity that’s ideal for people of all ages and skill level. If you book a guided tour, you will be taken to only the places with calm and quiet waters that require little physical exertion. In fact, kayaking in Hawaii is an activity that can be enjoyed by nearly every member of your family and is an excellent way to get in your sightseeing!

Just found this good writeup on one person’s experience using inflatable kayaks.  The person, Marlen Kemmet of Iowa, talks about using inflatable kayaks on the Salmon River in Idaho, the Arkansas river in CO, the upper Colorado river in CO, in Yellowstone Park, and many other places.

One good tip offered is “to determine what your course or “line” will be about 50 to 100 feet before hitting the whitewater, paddle hard before hitting the rapids, and go through the rapids head on. “  The reason for this is if you hit a wave too slow it may turn you sideways and flip.

Its an excellent article which can help you enjoy your inflatable kayak.  Here is a link to the article.

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One way to really get to know a person is by sharing a kayak.

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Here is a link to a couple of good photos of a guy kayaking with his dog.

What do you think the dog is thinking ?

Kayaking Hawaii can be as peaceful as a solitary paddle trip along a tranquil river or as wild as a rough ocean adventure. Popular kayaking destinations can be found on Kauai, Maui and Molokai. Some of the most beautiful areas in Hawaii are extremely difficult to access via land but kayaking gives paddlers immediate access to appreciate and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Kauai is the only Hawaiian island with a river suitable river for kayaking. Wailua River on the eastern side of the island is a favored destination. The right side of the river is reserved for kayaking.

Wailua River Valley was once reserved for royalty. It is still considered sacred and special by many. The river is typically gentle with little current.

Lush tropical foliage, beautiful exotic blooming flowers, ancient ruins, sacred waterfalls, old Hawaiian villages, pristine canyons and tropical rain forests are just a portion of the scenic beauty kayakers can experience.
Several tour companies operate in the region. Single, double, and triple kayaks are available for rent. The Secret Falls and Fern Grotto are popular Hawaii kayaking destinations.

There are times when access to one or more areas (such as the grotto) is restricted but there’s so much more to see that kayakers aren’t left with time on their hands.

Maui kayaking tours include beginner tours, Makena tours and Honolua Bay tours. Kayak surfing tours are available and at least one tour company welcomes physically challenged kayakers.

Kayaking Makena Landing gives paddlers the opportunity to see turtles, eels, octopus, reef sharks, tropical fish and
occasionally whales or dolphins.

The secluded and beautiful Pali Sea Cliff area features rugged shoreline, sharp sea cliffs and stunning coral reefs. Hawaiian green sea turtles are a highlight of kayaking Makena Bay.

Honolua Bay is a marine reserve. The coral reef teems with fish. Kayaking here does require paddling into moderately strong trade winds.

Kayaking Hawaii’s Molokini Crater allows kayakers to access areas powerboats can get to. Some of the island’s most spectacular sea life is said to be found here.

Molokai is best reserved for experienced kayakers. Ocean swells and rough waves make paddling too difficult and dangerous for beginners. The island’s undeveloped north shore may be paddled from east to west but kayakers rarely paddle the return route. Ten mile-per-hour winds make the trip a rough one.

Kayaking Hawaii’s Kona coast gives paddlers the opportunity to explore Kealakekua Bay, Keahou, Ho’okena, Honaunau and Kailua.

Kealakekua Bay is the most protected deep water bay and is designated a Marine Life Conservation District. The Bay was the home of many Hawaiian Chiefs and is where Captain Cook landed. A Captain Cook monument stands there today.
Across the bay, kayakers will find pristine reefs where over 250 species of fish have been identified. Glass kayaks can be rented in Kona, making kayaking Hawaii a truly amazing and different experience.

Keahuou Bay, birthplace of Kamehameha the great, boasts calm waters. Kayakers paddling along the south cliffs will pass sea caves. One of the sea caves can often be entered by kayak, making for a unique Hawaiian kayaking experience.

Kayaking Hawaii can be a tranquil experience or an adrenalin rush. From tropical waterfalls to rushing rapids, from sea caves to historical ruins, paddlers can choose the perfect kayak trip.
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South Carolina is a state full of adventure, fun and relaxation for residents and tourists alike. There’s something for everyone of all ages to enjoy no matter what part you live in or are visiting. With all of the beauty surrounding this all-American escape, it’s only natural that one would take full advantage of the great outdoors. That’s why South Carolina is known for some great kayaking, whether you’re a rookie to the waters or an aquatic guru!

Nearly every major city in South Carolina has all the necessities to make your kayaking experience the ultimate adventure. And because kayaking is an easy and calm activity, it’s the perfect outdoor excursion for people of all ages and ability levels. You can find professional guided tours through Calm Water Kayak Tours of South Carolina. Although you may have experienced the busy waters of South Carolina’s beaches, the guides of Calm Water have made it their top priority to show you the quiet and sparkling waters of South Carolina’s lakes and streams. Calm Waters provides tours around Lake Jocassee, Saluda River, Lake Russell, Lake Greenwood, Lake Hartwell, and Lake Keowee.

While Beaufort, South Carolina is known as a busy city and is home to several United States Marines, it is also home to Beaufort Kayak Tours. You can choose from three different exploration routes, including Historic Beaufort, Salt Marsh Exploration, and Hunting Island. If you choose the Salt Marsh Exploration, keep your eyes peeled for the sight of a bottle-nose dolphin, as they are known to inhabit this area of South Carolina. You can also learn how to throw your own cast net to catch some of the saltwater crabs. The Historic Beaufort tour provides a detailed, narrated excursion of the interesting history that surrounds Beaufort – and you’ll never even have to walk the streets to take it all in! Hunting Island explores the tranquil sights of the lagoon surrounding the nearby beach, and is known for the entertainment of jumping mullets.

Check out Cool Breeze Kayaking in Hilton Head for a relaxing view of nature along with your trip to the beach. Here you can experience the two-hour Dolphin Nature Tour which provides a first-hand look at these amazing marine creatures. You can also catch a glimpse of otter and osprey! Please be sure to make advance reservations for this kayaking tour, as space is extremely limited.

Most kayaking tours in South Carolina are available for around $40 per adult, $30 per child. Packages vary and can be accustomed to suit your needs and budget. In fact, some South Carolina kayaking tours even offer overnight excursions for those who want to incorporate the great outdoors as part of their vacation. Be sure to ask what is included with your kayaking package, as some packages will offer a picnic lunch, t-shirt, or other souvenir. Although life jackets are typically provided, be sure to bring one in case a member of your party is a child or can’t swim.

With so many options available for a great kayaking adventure in South Carolina, you can’t go wrong by trying this out-of-the-ordinary outdoor experience!

Sea kayaking Archipelago destinations take boaters from the ordinary into a world where nature’s ordinary has been left untouched. Marine life, wildlife and birds thrive. The following are just a few popular sea kayaking destinations.

Galapagos National Park

The legendary Galapagos Islands are said to be enchanted. Kayaking the area is an enchanting experience, according to those who’ve been there. Iridescent turquoise waters, lava channels, blue lagoons, deserted coves and white sand beaches are the stuff of dreams.

The islands are usually sunny, another kayaking plus. Both shores and water teem with life. Sea lions, iguanas, giant tortoise, blue footed booby, and the Galapagos hawk are regular residents. The ocean houses the Pacific green sea turtle, Galapagos penguins, rays, dolphins, whales and white sharks in addition to other aquatic life.

Broughton Archipelago Marine Provincial Park

Broughton Archipelago is a maze of little islands off Northern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The area is accessed only by water. This very popular sea kayaking destination houses a large collection of birds and wildlife.
While kayaking the Archipelago, paddlers are likely to see orcas (killer whales), Harbour seals, Harbour porpoises, sea lions, sea otters, river otters, mink, raccoon, black-tailed deer, black bears, Bald eagles, Harlequin ducks, cormorants and Great blue herons.

The islands are undeveloped and the setting is primitive. Organized Archipelago kayaking tours are available through various providers.

Sormlands Archipelago

Located just south of Stockholm, Sweden, this sea kayaking Archipelago destination features untouched wilderness. Kayakers can tour the calm inner area, the lush central region or the outer regions.

Mergui Archipelago

Located in the southern part of Burma, the Mergui is a collection of over 800 islands, most of which are covered in rain forest. This kayaking Archipelago destination takes paddlers deep into the rain forests. Kayak Jungle Rivers visit the sea gypsy village on Nyaung Wee Island and learn about Moken culture.
Stunning beaches and a variety of wildlife and birds give the islands a lost paradise feel. Kayaking visitors have reported seeing wild elephants, flying foxes, civet cats, gibbons, crab-eating monkeys, wild boar, monitor lizards, turtles, armadillos and fruit bats. Birds include sea eagles, hornbills and parrots.

Dover Archipelago

Nova Scotia’s East Dover sea kayaking destination lies in a protected Atlantic harbor. Numerous uninhabited islands invite exploration.

The preservation area lies between East Dover and Peggy’s Cove. Granite boulders dot the landscape, spread by melting ice over 20,000 years ago.

Many of the islands are accessible via sea kayak. Some islands are so rocky that it isn’t possible to beach the kayak.
Island plant life includes rare orchids, Pitcher plants, lichens, juniper, and wild rhodendron. Osprey, loon, Blue Herons, and Bald eagles reside on the islands. Starfish, mussels, and lobsters can occasionally be seen.

Blackfish Archipelago

This British Columbia sea kayaking destination is well known for the abundance of whale sightings. Whales aren’t the only creatures causing a stir. Dall’s porpoises, Harbour Porpoises, Harbour seals, Stellar sea lions, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Orca whales, Minke whales, and Humpback whales are seen often.

Sea kayaking at night gives paddlers a chance to see the area lit up by bioluminescence. Kayaking Archipelago destinations take boaters away from everyday life and into undiscovered, uninhabited, truly natural areas.

Australia offers a variety of kayaking options, from mild to wild. Here are some popular Australia kayaking destinations.

Perth
Perth, in Western Australia, offers serious whitewater kayaking. Winter in Australia is July to September. One winter destination is Murray River. The Murray features grade 2-4 rapids and a steep gradient. Rapids include Tricky Dick, Columbines, Fast Eddies, Gobbly Girl and Terminations Rapid.

Broome
Sheltered bays and abundant marine life greet kayakers along this clean coastline. Birds, fish, dolphins and manta rays are some of the marine life present. Turtle Bay Lookout is a leisurely kayak trip exploring reefs, rock formations and watching birds and marine life.

Sea kayaking south of Broome to the Eco Beach and Cape Villarette area is a leisurely paddle. Ocean kayaks are recommended.

Sydney
Kayakers can see one of Australia’s largest tourist attractions, the Sydney Harbour, from sea level. Sydney Harbour is home to the Opera House, the Admiralty House (General Governor’s Residence), Kerribilli House (Prime Minister’s Residence), some of Sydney’s most expensive water front real estate and more.

Kayaking tours of the area are available. Some tour guides have changed their policies and no longer accept inexperienced kayakers. They state that the Harbour has much more motorized boat traffic and that it’s best if only experienced sea kayakers paddle through the more crowded areas.

Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary
The Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary is part of the Port River Estuary. Kayaking is an excellent way to meet up with the Port River dolphins and to tour the Ships Graveyard Maritime Heritage trail.

Great Barrier Reef
Enjoy sea kayaking the world’s largest reef system. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is 1400 miles long and home to 1800 known species of fish and 450 species of coral. 3000 individual reefs and 900 islands make up Great Barrier Reef. The biggest problem in kayaking the area is in deciding where to paddle first.
Green Island is a 6,000 year old coral cay and National Park on the Great Barrier Reef. Sandy beaches, clear water and a tropical rain forest make it a popular kayaking destination with some tours.

Tully River in the World Heritage Rainforest
Reef and rain forest tours are available from various tour operators. The Tully River, a Class IV, in the World Heritage Rain Forest is Australia’s most famous whitewater kayaking destination.

The Tully is located 87 miles south of Cairns. The river flows through the World Heritage Rain Forest. It’s a steep, technical grade 4 river. A five hour kayaking trip covers 45 rapids, including the Alarm Clock, the Wet & Moisty, Staircase and Theatre.

Prince’s Bridge to Westgate Bridge
The Yarra River used to be the lifeblood of Melbourne. Kayakers can see the old docks, boats and bridges from water level. Paddle alongside tankers and cargo boats for a new perspective on size. The area now contains a casino, restaurants, shops and cycling track. Kayakers can pull up at Southbank or the Docklands and grab some refreshment.
From the magnificent Sydney Harbor to the wild Tully River, Australia offers something for both experienced and beginning kayakers.

Whether you’re looking for a challenge and a chance to test your kayaking skills or just looking to see Florida from another point of view, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Participating in a reputable kayak tour is a good way to see what Florida has to offer.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Florida is a popular destination for many organized kayak tours. A Day Away Outfitters offer several tours based in the refuge.

Manatee Encounter: kayaking with this beloved Florida resident and endangered species can be a fun and enlightening experience. The tour lasts two hours and manatee sightings are guaranteed from April to October. Difficulty rating is easy.
Birding Tour: This 90 minute kayaking tour gives paddlers the chance to see some of Florida’s migratory and native birds. Spoonbills, herons, egrets and more call the refuge home. Difficulty rating is easy.

Black Night/Cold Light Bioluminescent Night Tour: This isn’t a refuge tour but it is highly recommended. In the summer, the waters of the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon light up thanks to bioluminescence. Every movement produces light. Manatees glow, sting rays look like something out of something out of science fiction movies and fast moving little fish look like glow-in-the-dark rockets. The tour lasts 2 1/2 hours. Bioluminescence is guaranteed June through September. Difficulty rating is easy. Kayakers can truly see Florida in a whole new light.

Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail

This popular sea kayaking destination in Florida is one of the longest and wildest publicly owned wetlands in the United States. The 105 mile trail features a big variety of marine and bird life. White pelicans, egrets, bald eagles and ospreys inhabit the area. In the water, kayakers are likely to see crabs, fish, sea turtles, manatee, cannonball jelly fish, small sharks and rays.

Six designated campsites are spread out over the trail. Camping permits are required and guide books are available. The trail is open from September 1 to June 30th.

Blue Cypress Lake

Club kayak details several available Florida kayak routes and tours. Blue Cypress Lake is one of them. Freshwater kayaking at Florida’s Blue Cypress Lake requires moderate kayaking skills. Round trip from Middleton’s Fish Camp to Moonshine Bay is 7 miles.

The lake contains largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and blue gill in addition to other fish species. Cypress trees, often filled with osprey, surround the launch area. Available side trips include exploring the cypress swamp, complete with subtropical ferns, mosquitoes and alligators.

Weeki Wachee River

Also detailed by Club kayak is Weeki Wachee, a Florida spring discharging over 64 million gallons of water daily. Kayaking this Florida waterway, paddlers are likely to see manatee, alligators, raccoons, otters and a variety of birds. Often-sighted birds include ducks, ibis, pelicans, herons, osprey, wood storks and cormorants. Eight miles along, the Weeki Wachee meets the Gulf of Mexico.

Difficulty rating is beginner to advanced and distance ranges from 4 to 16 miles.
Kayaking options in Florida range from freshwater to saltwater and from calm water to rushing water. Kayaking tours are an excellent way to try out new waterways. State parks and kayaking trails are another option.