Kayaking through some of the most breathtaking spots in the world is a perfect way to spend an active and immersive vacation. It is an incredible way of getting insight on the globe’s natural and cultural wonders. Kayaking experts can help you from their experience in choosing the best spots and also the surroundings which can help to provide you with some of the finest moments of your kayaking life. Here are the top sea spots from kayaking experts to help inspire your next vacation.
Sea Of Cortez, Mexico
The Sea of Cortez off Mexico’s Baja Peninsula has garnered a reputation as an outstanding wildlife watching destination and was famously referred to by Jacques Cousteau as the “world’s aquarium”. Around 900 fish species and more than 30 types of marine mammals gather there to feed and breed, making for some incredible wildlife encounters while kayaking. Spend your days slowly paddling between Baja’s beautiful beaches while enjoying unparalleled views of its red rock canyons and dramatic ridges. The Islands of Loreto Bay National Marine Park and Isla Espiritu Santo are two iconic kayaking locations; however, if you’re looking for Baja kayaking a little more off the beaten path, check out Isla San Jose.
Northern Vancouver, Canada.
The wild lands of Northern Vancouver Island are a good place for kayaking. There are many trees and animals like whales, dolphins, and seals. Kayaking experiences are particularly memorable, with magnificent views towards mainland British Columbia and regular sightings of orcas who actively feed on the salmon run between mid-July and September. More west is Blackfish Sound, a big flowing water way between Hansen Island and Swanson Island where animals can be seen, mostly humpback whales.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Hugging the Adriatic Sea from the island of Rab to the Bay of Kotor, the Dalmatian Coast is the jewel in Croatia’s tourism crown. It’s home to UNESCO-listed cities like Dubrovnik and Split, as well as gorgeous islands frequented by luxury yachts. But if you want to get off-the-beaten tourist track, a kayaking tour is the way to go, with unspoiled coastlines, historic ruins, and crystal clear waters to explore. Visit the timeless islands of the Kornati archipelago to discover its stone-built towns and Venetian palaces, as well as sun-dappled olive groves and vineyards.
Hawaii, United States.
Well-known for its tall cliffs shaped by small valleys, the Na Pali Coast is a safe wild place in the northwest of Kauai. While a steep footpath known as the Kalalau Trail winds through this spectacular landscape, the best way to appreciate it is from the water. Embark on a 17-mile paddle beneath its soaring cliffs and lush valleys where guavas and mangos thrive while exploring wave-sculpted caves and waterfalls spilling into the Pacific Ocean.
Haida Gwaii, Canada
Also known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is a wildlife-rich archipelago off British Columbia’s west coast that boasts a rich First Nations history. Its densely forested islands have been inhabited for around 13,000 years by the Haida people, with centuries-old totem poles testament to their long-established culture. Aside from discovering its indigenous heritage sites, a kayaking expedition to Haida Gwaii offers exceptional seabird sightings and unforgettable nights spent fireside at wild base camps. It is an exciting place to explore. You should go and see it.
Kenai Fjords, America
Encompassing the Harding Ice field (one of the largest of its kind in the United States), the Kenai Fjords National Park is an area of natural beauty that’s best explored by kayak. It’s named after its glacial-carved fjords that are blanketed in forests and provide a rich habitat for moose, brown and black bears (to name just a few). When you paddle, look out for seals, otters, and big whales in the protected waters.
Galapagos National Park, Ecuador
Considered one of the world’s premier destinations for wildlife viewing, the Galapagos Islands need no introduction. While you can explore the archipelago on boat and land-based tours, a kayaking trip offers a completely different perspective. Paddle beneath soaring cliffs and rock formations inhabited by breeding bird colonies and get up close to the spectacular lava flows that have created its landscapes while spotting wildlife seen nowhere else on Earth.
Disko Bay, Greenland
When you consider that kayaking was invented by the Inuit of the Arctic (many of whom still hunt for food by kayak today), there’s no better destination to head for a paddling adventure than Greenland. Most cruises around this massive island include kayaking excursions as part of their itinerary, with destinations such as Disko Bay among the most popular. Imagine slowly paddling amidst immense icebergs and exploring fascinating sea caves before visiting the local settlement of Qeqertaq.
Corsica, France
With its craggy peaks jutting out from the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Corsica has a special allure. Its hidden coves, glittering bays, and sun-drenched beaches make it a fascinating kayak destination, particularly around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Reserve Naturelle de Scandola. Most boat trips in Corsica have a little walk to see the old forts and real towns, which give a great look at the area’s different habits, cultures, and food.
West Coast, Scotland
Scattered with countless islands, spectacular sea stacks and rock formations, the western seaboard of Scotland offers some of the finest sea kayaking in the world. Aside from its majestic natural scenery, the region boasts storied historic landmarks and a fascinating whiskey culture that combine for an unforgettable adventure. Spend your days paddling between remote islands, tranquil inlets and deserted beaches while spotting seals, otters and seabirds.
Cuba
Cuba is the largest island of the Caribbean and has thousands of miles of coastline. It also has the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean and an abundant and diverse marine ecosystem. This alone would make it a fascinating sea kayak destination, but the icing on the cake is the fabulous culture, art and music of the island. There are several regions that are ideal for sea kayaking, including the northeast coast, where you can paddle in the wake of Christopher Columbus’ journey 500 years ago. Or along the southern coast where Zapata National Park is located, which is Cuba’s largest national park. Paddle through mangroves and over shallow white-sand bottoms where you can also snorkel and bird watch. Nearby is the Bay of Pigs, location for the failed US invasion of 1961 and another fascinating paddling area.
