Kayak Travel: How to Plan a Kayak Trip

Arranging a kayak vacation, whether a day kayaking trip or a multi-day adventure, is much easier than you might think. The skinny craft is multi-faceted: It goes through churning whitewater, along lake and estuary coastlines, and can even catch a wave. You just need to determine what type of kayak travel you want, where you’d like to go and how long you’d like to be in the boat.

I’ve been kayaking since 1993, and met my husband, a former member of the USA Canoe/Kayak team, while on a kayak tour under the Golden Gate Bridge. Together, we own a kayak business and have paddled in 12 countries. Take it from me: you don’t have to be an edgy adventurer to get out on the water.

How to Plan a Kayak Vacation

Pick Your Adventure

The first thing you have to decide is what you want to do. Dream of navigating a bubbling mountain river? Want to catch the perfect wave? What about quietly investigating the wharf of a coastal town on a sea kayaking vacation? The choices are nearly endless, but once you decide what kind of adventure you want (from the athletic to the lily-dipper), it’s easier to determine the destination and length of the trip.

You can venture out for an hour rental or a multi-week excursion. How long do you want to go? Some folks want the option to take a little paddle every day of their vacation (in lieu of jogging or going to the gym). Some prefer kayaking tours to get to know a new destination. Others are excited by the idea of packing a week’s worth of food and provisions and hitting the watery trail.

 

• Kayaking is a great way to experience fun in the sun, no matter your experience level.

FreeWine

First, consider if everyone in your party agrees on what makes a great vacation. If not, can you choose an option that will allow everyone to participate as they wish? Cranky kayakers are not good traveling companions. Make sure nobody gets in over his head.

Kayak Destinations

Take a look at destinations that feature your preferred method of kayaking. In many cases (California, New Zealand, Costa Rica and more), there are destinations for every kayak discipline. In others, you have only one choice. Take your time and choose wisely. [See our list of Top Kayak Destinations.]

Next: Choose an Outfitter or Go Solo?