6 Scenic Destinations for First-Time Kayakers
Adventure and discovery await in these kayaking destinations, from the Outer Hebrides in Scotland to the Broughton Archipelago in Canada. Opt for a more manual mode of transport on water and you’ll discover shallow reefs, mangrove forests, and mesmerizing sea life. Unlike mountain biking, long-distance hiking, and other adventure sports, kayaking is largely suitable for beginners and is an eco-conscious way of injecting a bit of adventure into traveling. Here are six of the best destinations around the globe for your next — or first — kayaking island-hopping trip.
1. Sankt Anna & Gryt Archipelago, Sweden
The Sankt Anna & Gryt Archipelagos, with their 6,000 islands, offer a serene and otherworldly landscape along Sweden’s east coast. The mix of narrow straits, bare rock, and forest patches is perfect for wild camping and wildlife watching, including grey seals, white-tailed eagles, and Arctic skua.
How to do it: Do the North offers four-night kayaking and photography workshops departing in September from Norrköping. Fly to Stockholm.
2. Ionian Islands, Greece
Paddle east from Nidri in Lefkada to explore the warm waters and sparkling seascapes of the Ionian Islands. Circumnavigate the island of Meganisi, visit the private island of Skorpios, and enjoy deserted beaches and warm-water snorkeling.
How to do it: Much Better Adventures’ four-night kayaking and wild camping trips run regularly between April and October, departing from Aktion National Airport in Greece.
3. Southern Exuma Cays, Bahamas
The Southern Exuma Cays are ideal for beginner-friendly, expedition-style kayaking. The warm, shallow waters are perfect for easy paddling, and the islands feature mangroves, sea salt flats, and opportunities to spot iguanas and enjoy mesmerizing sunsets.
How to do it: Spirit of the West Adventures has five-night Exuma Cays trips in March and April, departing from Great Exuma Island. Fly to George Town.
4. Outer Hebrides, Scotland
The Outer Hebrides offer an unpredictable but rewarding kayaking experience. Explore sea lochs, abandoned islands, and a landscape teeming with wildlife, including golden eagles, otters, dolphins, and whales.
How to do it: Wilderness Scotland runs several six-night Outer Hebrides sea-kayaking trips each spring and summer, departing from Inverness railway station.
5. Raja Ampat Archipelago, Indonesia
Set in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the Raja Ampat Archipelago is known for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. Snorkel with manta rays and turtles, and enjoy the surrounding rainforests’ rich wildlife. Safety is a priority in this remote location, with guided tours available.
How to do it: Voyage Kayak offers 16-night sea-kayaking trips in the Raja Ampat Archipelago in November and March, departing from Paris.
6. Broughton Archipelago, Canada
North of Vancouver Island, the Broughton Archipelago offers a breathtaking mix of temperate rainforest and marine life. Paddle through BC’s largest marine park, and keep an eye out for bald eagles, sea lions, dolphins, and humpback whales.
How to do it: Sea Kayak Adventures runs five-night summer tours of the Broughton Archipelago, departing from Port McNeill on Vancouver Island. Fly to Vancouver or Port Hardy.