Kayaking Vacations to Maine

There are people who have kayaked all over the world as I have, yet we still favor Maine. Maine is the premier kayaking destinations with its 228 miles of coastline that is expanded to 3,478 miles of shoreline once you factor in all of the coves, harbors, and islands. Paddling the coastline gives, you access too many lighthouses, fishing shacks, hidden islands, and a multitude of wildlife as well as sea life. Paddling the jagged granite coastline lined with strong scent of spruce trees that float out to sea. You will find that pulling your boats up to shores of untouched islands for further exploration and special treats like hunting blueberries or lie on slabs of sun-warmed rocks.

There are towns with art galleries, cafes, and piers full of activities to stop at or clusters of harbor seals sunbathing on rocks and lobsterman of the water to wave at. Frequently the song of the loons, the chirp of a bald eagle, or the splash of a porpoise is the only sound to be heard as you paddle your way between islands. The wispy fog and the foghorn gives an eerie sound, yet gives a mystery and adventure to your paddling.

Padding the Maine coastline is the only way to discover and understand the culture Maine. Best way for the beginner kayaker is with a guide in July or August. With unpredictable weather and numerous islands, it is far too easy to become disoriented or lost, therefore an experienced guide is strongly recommended. Experienced guides can teach you need skills, local folklore, geology, and biology. These experience outfitters can be found anywhere along the coast and can also provide overnight trips either staying at a historical Inn or camping on an uninhabited island.

The sot after kayaking is on the Maine Island Trail, which hugs the coast from Porsmouth, NH to northeastern Maine. Specifically designed for kayaks, the watery trail weaves from island to island through saltwater tributaries, bays, and harbors. There are 80 pine-covered islands on the trail, which are only reachable to small watercraft, making it ideal for kayak exploration.

The best way to start is with a bay; the middle coast offers some pristine shoreline and bays. In particular, 60 islands of Deer Island in Penobscot Bay are ideal for paddlers. For the more experienced paddlers, the rugged coastline of Down East Maine is more risky and includes rocky shoreline and rougher waters.

If paddling in the ocean isn't your cup of tea, then check out the many lakes and rivers that flow through Maine. A great lake for both kayaking and camping is Lake Mousam. A week of camping on the lake whether in a tent or one of the many wonderful cabins for rent, there is more activities to fill the day. There is hiking and in the winter, snowmobile trails to explore, horseback riding and lots of shopping at nearby coastal villages. The beach is only a ½ hour away, providing for scuba diving and sailing.

After a kayaking trip in Maine, you'll be convinced it's the most deluxe and enjoyable mode of travel. You can pack a boat with gear and just glide to your next destination without extreme exertion. The greatest aspect of paddling is that you can always sit back look up, take it all in, and just let the tide guide you. Soon you will acclimate to the slow lifestyle that is Maine.