Kayaking supports people of all ages with the possibility to float on calm waters while enjoying the fresh air, birdwatching, photography, or fishing.

For the thrill-seeking paddler, kayaking provides that much sought after adrenalin rush every time the whitewater river or the pounding surf does not gain control.

Cropped unrecognisable Caucasian man kayaker paddling on the river.

Where to go kayaking

Once you have bought your kayak and are ready to go out, the next thing you need to do is decide the location. Every town or city will have waters that are best for kayakers, but here is a rundown of the three main options.

Ocean

The first body of water where you can go kayaking is in the ocean. Naturally, the area you go will determine how calm or rough the seas are.

With ocean kayaking, you need to be careful with the wind, weather, and how far out you go. Beginners shouldn’t be doing this on their own. Wear a wet suit, so you remain warm in the cold ocean water.

When you are a beginner, try to go out with others the first few times and head to the calm area of the ocean. Heading out from a marina is a good idea because you are not near the shore where waves are knocking you around.

River

Another good option for kayaking is to find a location in a nearby river. If you like the potential for rougher waters and more of a challenge but are not near an ocean, a stream is the next best thing.

Just remember you need a kayak specially made for whitewater, along with the right type of paddle.

If you are going out on your own, it’s not suitable for beginners, but good for kayakers with a little more experience.

Lake

The final option you have is to go kayaking in the lake. Lakes provide calmer waters that are good for any skill level. It is suitable for practicing, learning, and training, even if you are more advanced.

Kayaking in flat water is the easiest and safest type of kayaking to start. You do not need that much experience to be able to flatwater kayak. Kayaking on a calm river or lake is an excellent activity for the whole family as it’s easy to learn.

As the water is calm, you don’t need to worry about having an exceptionally sturdy kayak. Kayaking in flat waters does not require a particular type of kayak.

But how to choose the right kayak for different purposes:

How to Choose the Right Kayak

Kayaking is not just learning how to handle the kayak, but choosing the right kind of kayak. There is a lot to think about, from what you use the kayak to paddling.

Here are some different things to consider to help get you started.

Decide On Your Paddling

First, you need to look at the paddling you will do. Think about how long you will kayak, and what are your current paddling skills.

Recreation kayak

Recreation kayak is the right choice for you if you are a beginner, and you are starting in calm waters.

These give you a little more freedom and are not meant for those rough rivers.

So if you are trying it out in a lake, or a calm area of the ocean, a recreation kayak should be right.

Touring kayaks

Touring kayaks are better for rougher waters and are suitable for long stretches of water. Think the usage for more professional kayaking.

Style of the Kayak

Next up is to pick the right style. There are two main styles to choose from, including the sit-on-top kayak and the sit-in kayak. Here is a rundown of these options:

Sit-On-Top Kayak

The sit-on-top kayak does not have as much of a hull design. It’s flat on top since you are sitting on top of the kayak for a reasonable amount of time.

This type is best if you also want to fish or play in the water. You can go out with other intentions in mind than just kayaking.

Sit-In Kayak

If you want to learn to kayak and not take part in other water sports, the sit-in kayak is probably the best.

You will sit inside the kayak, fitted much more comfortable in a hull, and have better storage inside.