On any given day in South County, RI, you’re bound to see dozens of kayaks on the water. Locals here love paddling through the various ponds and rivers, and you’ll even see some adventurers embarking into the protected bays and coves lining the region’s shores.
It’s possible to bring your kayak on your vacation if you want to enjoy these waterways, too. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak from a few different businesses, saving you the hassle of loading your vessel onto your vehicle and driving it all the way here.
Learning where locals take their kayaks will surely make your life easier upon arrival. Here’s a look at some of the best places to go kayaking in South County.
Narrow River
The Narrow River in Narragansett is a calm location to head for a paddle. This area has an incredibly diverse ecosystem thanks to its salt marsh and tidal flats, and it connects to Narragansett Bay via the Pettaquamscutt River.
It’s easy to get on the water at the boat launch on Middlebridge Road, and there’s a rental shop called Narrow River Kayaks at the same location. Overall, the Narrow River is a safe and easy location to explore the water, and it’s relatively secluded, as well.
Ninigret Pond
Ninigret Pond is a saltwater pond in Charlestown, Rhode Island, that’s incredibly popular with kayakers. You can depart on your vessel from the various parking lots near East Beach or the kayak launch at Charlestown Town Beach and be on the water in seconds, exploring salt marshes, islands, and coves.
You could spend days padding around Ninigret Pond because it’s large and full of little nooks to enter as you travel. It’s also possible to rent a kayak at The Kayak Center if you don’t bring your boat with you.
Napatree Point
The first two locations on this list are largely protected, making them highly safe places to kayak. While Napatree Point is relatively safe, too, you’ll be on the ocean, so you’ll have to exercise caution as you head out.
Napatree Point sits in Westerly’s Watch Hill neighborhood. It’s a conservation area with a hiking trail out to the point, offering some of South County’s most scenic views, but you can also do some kayaking here if you wish.
Most locals who head out on the water here hug the coastline to the north or south of Napatree Point. From there, you can explore the calm waters or, if you’re experienced enough, paddle over to Sandy Point Island off the coast of Stonington, Connecticut.
Wickford Harbor
Although Wickford Harbor is a little busier than other spots on this list, it’s worth checking out if you’re into kayaking. You can put your boat in the water at Wickford Town Dock at the end of Main Street and paddle through the bay, visiting Cornelius Island and Rabbit Island along the way.
Just make sure you don’t venture too far east because you could end up in Narragansett Bay. This bay is a major shipping route, so it’s more dangerous than sticking close to Wickford and its protected waters.
Watchaug Pond
Another option in Charlestown is Watchaug Pond, a large freshwater body on the north end of town. This pod is surrounded by Burlingame State Park, and it’s possible to find a private place to beach your kayak if you want to explore the woods.
The Watchaug Pond boat launch is on its east end off Sanctuary Road. From there, you can quickly paddle to the north and west ends of the pond for some seclusion and relaxation.
Your South County Kayaking Adventure
South County is one of the top spots on the East Coast for kayaking, and your trips can take many different forms. For beginners, the region is full of protected, calm waters where you can explore nature in peace without worrying about ocean currents or tides.
If you have a little more experience, there are some great places to sea kayak in South County, and you can even explore some deserted islands in the ocean. Book your vacation rental today to take advantage of the first-class kayaking scene South County, RI, has to offer.