For adventure-seeking travelers, the best places to kayak in the world may be in the pristine waters of Costa Rica, Alaska, Greenland, the Philippines, or Vietnam. No matter where you go, you’ll surely be enchanted by the majesty of the ocean. But if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed and relaxing, consider one of the many destinations in Southeast Asia.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a tropical rainforest country with coastlines on the Pacific and Caribbean. The capital city, San Jose, is home to a Pre-Columbian gold museum. The country is also renowned for its volcanoes, beaches and biodiversity. Roughly a quarter of Costa Rica is protected jungle where you can find spider monkeys and Quetzal birds. The country also has a surprisingly diverse number of rivers and lakes.
One of the best places to kayak in Costa Rica is the idyllic coastal town of Playa Agujas. Near the busy beach town of Jaco, this serene beach is home to calm currents and jaw-dropping scenery. Kayakers can even snorkel right off the beach. Regardless of the climate, Costa Rica has plenty of natural attractions to keep kayakers busy and active. There are dozens of places to kayak in the country, so find one that suits your skill level.
For those who love to fish, Costa Rica is a great destination. The Gulf of Papagayo offers great fishing opportunities. You can fish inshore or offshore and catch a variety of species. Fishing from a kayak is an excellent way to exercise and spend time with friends. And you may even catch a decent-sized fish if you know what you’re doing. If you’ve never paddled before, you’re in luck! This area is a perfect place to learn how to kayak.
Alaska
Kayaking in Alaska is a unique experience in itself. In this far northern state, you’ll find incredible scenery, diverse wildlife, and thrilling adventure. You can experience all of these things by kayak, and there are several places to choose from. You can start your journey in Seward, the gateway to fjords and glaciers, and kayak near stunning turquoise waters. You’ll get up-close views of glaciers and wildlife.
To experience the beauty of the wilderness and the rugged landscape, choose from one of many popular kayaking destinations in Alaska. Those who want a unique experience can paddle on the quiet waters of Eklutna Lake or one of the protected bodies of water in Seward or Whittier. Those who aren’t adventurous enough can join a guided tour to a favorite kayaking spot. Taking a guided trip to a popular kayaking spot is a great option, as it allows you to explore secluded glaciers and wildlife up close. Alternatively, you can take a tour to see other areas of the state that are popular with kayakers. Regardless of your level of experience, you’re sure to love your trip to Alaska!
In addition to pristine wilderness and breathtaking scenery, Alaska has some of the world’s most breathtaking paddling spots. From Sitka to Kenai, kayaking in Alaska is an unforgettable experience. You can choose a full or half-day trip through the Sitka Sound and take in the scenery, observing the wildlife, and even fishing for yourself. And if you’re unsure of your paddling skills, a local guide will be there to help. In addition to being an invaluable resource for a safe and memorable experience, they’ll also point out any exciting wildlife that you may encounter during your journey.
Greenland
There are some great places to kayak in Greenland. Whether you’re looking to experience fjords, peaceful lakes, or other scenic areas, kayaking is a great way to get the most out of your time in the beautiful country. While kayaking in Greenland may not be as challenging as kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, it is a rewarding experience nonetheless. The best kayaking spots in Greenland aren’t necessarily located in remote locations; they are popular with families, adventurers, and people looking for an active way to experience the land.
While touring the Ice Fjord, keep an eye out for wildlife. During the midnight sun, the icebergs reflect a beautiful blue glow. Even in cloudy weather, the icebergs can be spotted and heard. If you kayak near these icebergs, you’ll also get to see whales calving. A kayaking tour in Greenland is an opportunity to experience close encounters with nature and the delicate flora and fauna.
Besides being a fun activity for children, kayaking in Greenland is also a cultural tradition. Ancient Thule people migrated to the Arctic region from North America around 1200AD. They brought kayaks along with them to navigate the ice-filled waters and travel vast distances in pursuit of animals. Even today, hunters in Greenland hunt with a kayak. It’s an old skill, perfect for an Arctic environment. And for those who love to explore the wild, remote coast of Greenland, kayaking is a must-do activity.
Philippines
The Philippines is a beautiful archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is made up of 7,641 islands, with the largest island, Luzon, being the most populated. The Philippines is divided into three main geographical divisions: Visayas, Mindanao, and Luzon. In addition to being a popular tourist destination, the Philippines is also known for its diverse cultural heritage.
While the capital, Manila, is full of energy, the country also has countless natural wonders that are calm and serene. One such place is Taal Lake, a dazzling freshwater crater south of Manila. It is surrounded by mountains and has a mystical island at its center. It is possible to travel to Taal Lake by boat, horseback, or on foot. In addition to a tranquil setting, the lake is surrounded by towering mountains that are the ultimate backdrop to a kayaking adventure.
The Philippines offers many great locations for kayaking and canoeing, from beaches with turquoise waters to raging rivers. From the pristine waters of a tranquil lagoon to the azure seas of El Nido, you can find the perfect waterway to explore. You can even hire a motorized banca to make the trip more comfortable for you. You can also hire a guide to help you find the perfect paddling location.
Sermilk Fjord
The sermilk fjord in Greenland is a stunning stretch of water. During the summer months, the water is glass-like, making kayaking a relaxing and safe experience. The fjord is also home to countless seals and whales. Although it’s not for beginners, kayaking in the fjord is not for the faint of heart.
The Sermilk fjord is also home to an active glacier. Getting up close to these icebergs is possible during a kayak tour. Dines Tours offers a dedicated tour for this purpose. The island of Ikkatseq, a former Inuit settlement, is another fantastic place to kayak in the fjord. Dines Tours also offers a special iceberg tour dedicated to this purpose.
Another spectacular location for kayaking is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Glacier Bay. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this glacial bay is surrounded by mighty glaciers. Despite the high altitude, the views of the glacier-clad mountain ranges are incredibly stunning. While kayaking in Glacier Bay, you’ll also be treated to views of the Victoria Falls and other local wildlife.
In addition to Sermilk Fjord, other spectacular destinations for kayaking include the Galapagos Islands. A chain of volcanic islands off the coast of Ecuador are home to some of the world’s most beautiful wildlife and ancient architecture. The islands are dotted with rainforests and tall limestone islands. If you’re looking for a remote, exotic destination, this is a must-see.
Grand Teton
Jackson Lake is an incredible 15-mile glacial lake that sits at the foot of the Grand Tetons. It is the largest kayaking lake in Grand Teton National Park. The water is crystal clear and you can kayak around 15 islands while admiring the majestic landscape. Jackson Lake is also a popular destination for overnight trips and multi-day excursions because of the healthy trout population and breathtaking scenery.
While paddling through the beautiful scenery of the park, be sure to practice wildlife safety. Moose can surprise you and suddenly kick forward, so be prepared to keep your distance. There are many lakes within Grand Teton National Park, but you will have to hike to others to kayak there. Inflatable SUPs are a great way to transport your kayak on longer hikes.
If you have some experience paddling, Grand Teton is an excellent place to get started. The park offers many lakes and a meandering Snake River that can be difficult to navigate. Advanced knowledge of the route and the ability to adapt quickly are essential in kayaking here. For those new to kayaking, Jackson is the best base for the south of the park, but it is expensive and busy.
If you’re a first-time visitor to the park, the most informative place to visit is the Flagg Ranch information station. From here, you can get a good overview of the Grand Teton National Park. The drive to Flagg Ranch can take anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and how many scenic vistas you visit. The best place to stop for a scenic lookout is the Flagg Ranch information station. The views are spectacular and you can watch many wildlife along the road.
