Kayaking is an exciting activity for those that love adventures and the thrill of adrenaline rush in their bodies. Kayaking can be either easy paddling your little boat over crystal clear waters (suitable for everyone) or fighting the vicious cascades of a large river down a mountain (only for experienced kayakers). Either way, kayaking is an awesome activity and white water rapids will give you goosebumps for the rest of the day. Now you can kayak almost anywhere on the planet, but as with every sport, there are some places that seem like they were custom made for kayaking. If you are into more peaceful sea kayaking, then it is all about the location, landscapes, seascapes and amazing nature. And if you are more into the river and adrenaline side of the sport then there are some rivers that are just better for this than other. So here is a list of some of the best kayaking spots on the planet:
Sea of Cortez
The Sea of Cortez is situated in between Mexico and the Baja Peninsula and is home to beautiful turquoise waters and the most diverse aquatic life. Kayaking on top of this water gives a view you can never get anywhere else in the world. You can be able to fish from your little boat while at the same time, get the chance to explore the many escarpments that border the water.
Amazon River
The Amazon River is the most iconic river on the planet. The second-longest river flows through the entire South American continent and is home to the highest number of flora and fauna on earth. The rivers create for a unique kayaking experience as they are big with lots of cascades. You can choose to kayak during the day or at night as you gaze at the stars. However, you have to be wary of the torrential rain that hits the region almost every day.
Dalmatian Coast
The Dalmatian Coast is located in Croatia, bordering the Adriatic Sea. The waters along the shoreline are very clear and clean, giving any kayaking enthusiasts a view of the deep blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. There are several archipelagos with countless smaller and bigger island that you can paddle to and they are not far apart. Combine that with old fortresses, and palaces that date back hundreds of years, lone lighthouses, secret bays and good food and you get one of the best sea kayaking packages possible. This is one of the best kayaking spots on this list that I have visited personally, so if you have any questions – let me know:)!
Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands in Ecuador are probably the most famous tropical islands due to the rich history they have with unique animals and plants. Galapagos Islands was the site where Charles Darwin came up with his revolutionary theory of evolution. The island is home to crystal clear waters and interesting animals that are a must-see for any kayaking enthusiast. The sea lions and giant Galapagos turtles will make good companions as you slowly glide over the clear waters.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is located in Vietnam, and it is an expansive stretch of beautiful sea waters that are home to emeralds that reflect back in the midday sun if you are lucky enough. For ardent kayakers, there are floating villages that you can visit as well as rainforests and limestone islands that are linked by a network of rivers and streams that drain into the sea. Any visit to Asia without dropping by Ha Long Bay cannot be considered to be a complete tour.
Grand Teton National Park
Located in Wyoming, the Grand Teton National Park is the true definition of North American wildlife. It has serene waters that have a mountainous range and lush pine forests for a backdrop. It is one of those places that bring you peace as you glide slowly on the still lakes waters, taking in the fresh cold air. There is no need to carry your own kayaks since the first thing you will be greeted by are rows of docks for kayak that you can rent for your expeditions.
Glacier Bay
Up north, in the cold bowels of Alaska, you will find a unique part called the Glacier Bay. True to its name, this is a stretch of frozen water and white mountain ranges that look like a scene straight from a movie. Kayakers looking to go head to head with the harshest environment on earth are welcome to try their luck with Glacier Bay. You can fish or take your time checking out the polar bears that frequent the area during the winter season.
Zambezi River
The Zambezi river is not small play; you will need nerves of steel to be able to take on this ferocious African river. It is full of sharp turns, cascades, and waterfalls that will make even the most experienced of kayakers think twice before jumping in. Make a point to visit the iconic Victoria Falls, which has been listed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. You will be able to see hippos, crocodiles, zebras, and water buffaloes. Zambezi river flows through 5 different countries, but the most famous kayaking is done in Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Ningaloo Reef
Ningaloo Reef is located in Australia and is one of the most famous kayaking spots in the region. The warm waters are home to mantle rays, turtles, humpback whales, and an assortment of tropical fishes that are only unique to that part of the world. You can explore the lagoons using your kayak, and at the end of the day, you can camp on the warm beaches as you gaze at the expansive Australian skyline.
Conclusion
Kayaking is a popular activity that has become a big hit with people vacationing away from home. Especially sea kayaking that can be done by virtually anyone, although going out on the sea can never be taken too lightly. Besides these 9 best kayaking spots that we listed, there are other locations sprawled across the globe, each offering a unique experience. When it comes to famous kayaking locations like these, you also do not have to carry your own kayak around; each of these locations has rentals that you can use. If you have never taken part in a kayak expedition, then I really suggest you try it. If you like nature and especially the sea, you will not be disappointed.