Best Cities to Kayak in The United States

Last Updated on February 21, 2023 by Afsar

As a kayaking enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the most beautiful cities in the United States from a unique perspective – the water. Kayaking offers a peaceful and thrilling way to experience a city’s natural beauty, from its rivers and lakes to its coastal areas and beyond. Through my travels, I have discovered some of the best cities in the United States for kayaking. From Seattle’s Puget Sound to Duluth’s Lake Superior, each of these cities offers a unique and breathtaking experience. In this article, I will share with you the top ten best cities to kayak in the United States based on my personal experiences and recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, these cities offer a chance to explore some of the most beautiful waterways in the country and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Seattle, Washington

As an avid kayaker, I highly recommend Seattle as a top destination for kayaking enthusiasts. The city’s prime location along Puget Sound provides easy access to the breathtaking body of water, which the Olympic Mountains encircle to the west and the Cascade Mountains to the east. The stunning scenery and diverse marine life, such as orcas, seals, sea lions, and otters, make for an unforgettable kayaking experience. Seattle boasts several launch points for kayaks, making it easy to explore the many bays and coves of Puget Sound. Additionally, there are numerous kayaking tours and rental options available for those who prefer a guided or solo adventure.

San Francisco, California:

I can attest to the incredible experience of paddling through the picturesque waters of San Francisco Bay. The bay provides breathtaking views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the historic Alcatraz Island, and the stunning city skyline, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike.

One of the highlights of kayaking in San Francisco Bay is the ability to paddle out to the nearby Angel Island, which offers a unique perspective of the bay and the city. The island’s rugged coastline, hidden coves, and panoramic views make it a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic or a quick dip in the water.

Kayaking in San Francisco is accessible to everyone, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner. There are numerous kayak rental companies that offer a variety of equipment options, including single and double kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft. For those who want to learn more about the area’s history and landmarks, guided tours are available, led by experienced guides who share fascinating insights about the city’s rich culture and traditions.

In addition to the breathtaking scenery and water sports, San Francisco Bay also offers a diverse range of marine life. From harbor seals and sea lions to pelicans and egrets, the bay is a veritable wildlife sanctuary that offers a glimpse into the area’s unique ecosystem.

Overall, kayaking in San Francisco Bay is a must-do activity for any nature lover, adventure seeker, or tourist visiting the area. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day out with friends and family or a peaceful solo adventure, the bay offers something for everyone.

Portland, Oregon

As a tourist, I was thrilled to discover that Portland is a fantastic destination for kayaking enthusiasts. With its close proximity to both the Willamette River and Columbia River Gorge, Portland offers a range of kayaking experiences for all skill levels and interests.

The Willamette River is particularly popular, as it runs right through the heart of the city and provides an easy, peaceful paddle. As I glided down the river, I was struck by the stunning views of Portland’s skyline and lush greenery. The calm waters and gentle currents made for a relaxing, enjoyable experience that was perfect for a leisurely afternoon outing.

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Columbia River Gorge offers an unforgettable kayaking experience. The gorge is known for its dramatic waterfalls and towering mountain views, making it a breathtakingly beautiful destination for nature lovers. As I navigated the rapids and twists and turns of the river, I felt an incredible rush of excitement and a true sense of adventure.

No matter what your skill level, there are many kayak rental companies and guided tours available in Portland to help you make the most of your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are options to suit your needs and interests. The knowledgeable guides are also a fantastic resource, sharing insights about the area’s history and natural beauty.

Overall, kayaking in Portland is an incredible way to experience the city’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. With the variety of options available, from peaceful river paddles to exhilarating rapids, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a solo adventure or a fun outing with friends and family, Portland is a top destination for kayaking enthusiasts.

Charleston, South Carolina

Back in 2016, I was thrilled to discover that Charleston is an idyllic destination for kayaking enthusiasts. The city’s close proximity to the stunning coastline and nearby islands provides ample opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.

As I paddled through the many inlets, bays, and estuaries, I was struck by the incredible diversity of the area’s wildlife. From the playful dolphins swimming alongside my kayak to the graceful sea turtles and the elusive alligators, every moment on the water was a unique and unforgettable experience.

Moreover, kayaking in Charleston is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and history. The knowledgeable guides on the guided tours shared fascinating insights about the area’s rich history, including the stories of the Gullah people who lived on the nearby islands.

Overall, kayaking in Charleston is a must-do activity for any nature lover, adventure seeker, or tourist visiting the area. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle through the quiet inlets or a thrilling adventure alongside the region’s wildlife, there’s something for everyone. The stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich history of the area make Charleston a top destination for kayaking enthusiasts.

San Diego, California

San Diego is a great city to kayak due to its access to La Jolla Cove and the sea caves. La Jolla Cove is a beautiful cove that is surrounded by cliffs and offers a unique view of the ocean. The sea caves are nearby and offer a chance to see sea lions and other marine life up close. There are many kayak rental companies and guided tours available in San Diego. Here are some of the top places to kayak in San Diego:

1. La Jolla Cove: This protected marine reserve is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning sea caves. Kayakers can explore the cove and its surrounding areas, including the La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve.
2. Mission Bay: This man-made bay offers a range of kayaking experiences, from peaceful paddles through the calm waters to more challenging outings in the open ocean. With over 4,000 acres of water to explore, there’s something for every skill level.
3. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: This picturesque reserve is located just north of La Jolla and offers kayakers the opportunity to paddle alongside towering cliffs and stunning rock formations. The reserve is also home to a variety of marine life, including sea lions, seals, and dolphins.
4. San Diego Bay: This scenic bay offers kayakers the chance to paddle alongside the downtown skyline and explore the many coves and inlets that make up the bay. Kayakers can also paddle to nearby Coronado Island for a unique and unforgettable experience.
5. Oceanside Harbor: This harbor offers kayakers the chance to explore the waters alongside a picturesque fishing village and marina. The harbor is also home to a variety of marine life, including sea lions and harbor seals.

Miami, Florida

Miami is another great city for kayaking due to its access to the beautiful waters of Biscayne Bay. Biscayne Bay is home to many mangroves, and kayakers can explore the unique ecosystem and see an abundance of marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and many species of fish. There are many kayak rental companies and guided tours available in Miami.

1. Biscayne Bay: This scenic bay is located between Miami and Miami Beach and offers kayakers the opportunity to paddle alongside the downtown skyline and explore the many islands that make up the bay. Kayakers can also explore the mangrove forests and see a variety of marine life, including manatees and dolphins.
2. Oleta River State Park: This park is located in the heart of Miami and offers kayakers the chance to paddle through the calm waters of the Oleta River. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including iguanas, ospreys, and herons.
3. Crandon Park: This beautiful park is located on the northern end of Key Biscayne and offers kayakers the chance to paddle through the calm waters of the lagoon. The park is also home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and sharks.
4. Matheson Hammock Park: This picturesque park is located in Coral Gables and offers kayakers the chance to paddle through the calm waters of the lagoon. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including iguanas and manatees.
5. Virginia Key Beach Park: This park is located on Virginia Key and offers kayakers the chance to explore the waters around the island. Kayakers can also paddle to nearby Key Biscayne and explore the many beaches and coves that make up the area.

Overall, Miami offers a range of kayaking experiences for all skill levels and interests, from peaceful lagoons to challenging ocean outings. With so many beautiful waterways to explore, it’s no wonder that Miami is a top destination for kayaking enthusiasts.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a unique city to kayak in due to its access to the Chicago River. The river runs through the heart of the city and offers a unique perspective of the city’s iconic architecture. Kayakers can see many famous landmarks, such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Tribune Tower. There are many kayak rental companies and guided tours available in Chicago.

1. Chicago River: The Chicago River offers a unique and picturesque kayaking experience, with views of the city’s famous architecture and landmarks. Kayakers can paddle through the downtown area, past the iconic Willis Tower, and into the quiet waters of the North Branch.
2. Lake Michigan: As one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Michigan offers kayakers the chance to explore miles of beautiful coastline and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. Kayakers can paddle along the lakefront and explore nearby beaches and coves.
3. Skokie Lagoons: Located just outside of Chicago, the Skokie Lagoons offer a peaceful and scenic kayaking experience. The lagoons are made up of seven interconnected waterways and are home to a variety of wildlife, including herons, egrets, and beavers.
4. Busse Lake: Located in the Chicago suburbs, Busse Lake offers kayakers the chance to explore the calm waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The lake is surrounded by a nature reserve and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and foxes.
5. Des Plaines River: The Des Plaines River is a popular kayaking destination for those looking for a more challenging and adventurous experience. The river flows through forest preserves and offers a variety of rapids and drops for kayakers to navigate.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a great city to kayak due to its access to the French Broad River. The French Broad River is surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, and offers a peaceful and scenic paddle. Kayakers can also see an abundance of wildlife, including bald eagles, river otters, and many species of fish. There are many kayak rental companies and guided tours available in Asheville.

1. French Broad River: The French Broad River is a popular spot for kayaking in Asheville. It offers a variety of rapids and calm stretches, and has a number of access points for kayakers. The river runs through the heart of the city and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Bent Creek: Bent Creek is a popular destination for flatwater kayaking. The creek is located in the Pisgah National Forest and offers calm, peaceful paddling in a scenic setting.
3. Lake Julian: Lake Julian is a man-made lake located in southern Asheville. It offers calm, flatwater kayaking in a peaceful setting. The lake is home to a variety of fish, and is a great spot for fishing as well as kayaking.
4. North Mills River: North Mills River is a great spot for kayakers looking for a more challenging paddling experience. The river offers a variety of rapids and drops, as well as calm stretches for kayakers to catch their breath. It’s located in Pisgah National Forest and offers beautiful scenery.
5. Hominy Creek: Hominy Creek is a scenic spot for kayaking located just outside of Asheville. The creek offers calm, flatwater paddling in a peaceful, natural setting. It’s a great spot for a relaxing day on the water.

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth is a great city to kayak due to its access to Lake Superior. Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world, and offers a unique and rugged beauty. Kayakers can paddle along the shoreline and see many beautiful cliffs, waterfalls, and other natural features. There are many kayak