Looking for a fun summer activity that brings you up close to Long Island’s natural beauty and wildlife and offers some great physical activity as well? Kayaking is a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors and Long Island has waterways that can accommodate everyone from novice kayakers to more experienced paddlers.

If you’re new to kayaking and want to take that first dip into paddling paradise, here are seven kayak rental places on Long Island to check out:

Peconic Water Sports, Southold

Specializing in many water sports, Peconic Water Sports rents single and double kayaks from its Southold location where kayakers can enjoy exploring the picturesque Southhold Bay and Hashamomuck Pond. Rental includes basic instruction and equipment.  

Long Island Canoe Kayak Rentals, Riverhead

Journey down the scenic Peconic River with a kayak rental from Long Island Canoe Kayak Rentals, part of Treasure Cove Resort Marina. Rent a kayak by the hour or take one of several available tours including the Adventure Tour, Sunset Tour and Moonlight Tour.

Photo courtesy of Long Island Canoe Kayak Rentals

JK Kayak & SUP, Cold Spring Harbor

JK Kayak & SUP has professional certified guides and will supply the equipment and instruction you need to have a fun and safe day on the water. They have a large fleet of kayaks and offer kayaking at several locations in Nassau and Suffolk.

Photo courtesy of JK Kayak & SUP

Carmans River Canoe & Kayak II, Brookhaven

Carmans River Canoe & Kayak II, located on the tranquil Carmans River, offers a wonderful way to explore one of Long Island's largest rivers as well as the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, home to wildlife such as turtles and 240 species of birds including two American bald eagles. Rent a single or double kayak and receive all equipment and instruction, no experience is necessary. Fishing kayaks are also available. Are you a photography buff? Inquire about the 4-hour Guided Kayak Photography Tour. 

Freeport Kayak Rentals, Freeport

Discover the beauty of Baldwin Bay and the surrounding canals and creeks with Freeport Kayak Rentals. Kayaks launch from Waterfront Park in Freeport, close to the Nautical Mile. Rent a kayak by the hour or take part in a Sunday Guided Eco Tour, Monday Night Boat & Burger paddle or other special event.

Nissequoque River Canoe and Kayak Rentals, Kings Park and Smithtown

Nissequoque River Canoe and Kayak Rentals offers kayaking on the North Shore starting or ending at the Nissequogue River State Park in Kings Park or the "Headwaters" at the Paul T. Given County Park in Smithtown. You’ll receive equipment and instruction before enjoying a paddle along the Nissequoque River.

Norman J. Levy Park, Merrick

Norman J. Levy Park is a Town of Hempstead preserve that serves as a plant and wildlife sanctuary. Beginners can rent a kayak and take a tour of Meadow Brook and Merrick Bay led by Levy Park Rangers. Keep an eye out for turtles, ducks, egrets and other wildlife.

Click here for additional kayak rental listings. 

Contact the locations for pricing and operating hours which may be subject to change due to weather conditions.