Where to Kayak
A little Hudson River roundup of where to paddle.
Just because it is the end of August it doesn’t mean summer is over. In fact, there is still plenty of good weather ahead, perfect for kayaking. Kayaking has always been one of Go Love NY’s most popular outings, so people often ask me for advice on where to go. Our clients’ needs of course, determine where I take a group, but for my own family outings, it really depends on my mood. First time kayakers should not be discouraged or intimidated! All of the rental companies include an instructional lesson prior to hitting the water. It's an easy and fun way to spend a few hours! Here is a little roundup of where to get on the water so you can enjoy the last weeks of kayak friendly weather.
CORNWALL ON HUDSON
Cornwall on Hudson is my go-to when I have the time, it's about an hour drive from Irvington. Personally, I like a guided tour, where someone is leading me and I am learning a bit about my surroundings.
There are a couple of rental companies who give tours and launch from Donahue Memorial Park. One of my all time favorites is a visit to Bannerman Castle, a historic, fortress-like structure located on Pollepel Island in the Hudson River near Breakneck Mountain. Built by Francis Bannerman VI, a Scottish-American entrepreneur with a passion for collecting military surplus gear. The castle was built in the early 20th century and features Gothic-style architecture with crenelated walls and towers. The building which also served as his warehouse, was eventually abandoned, but after years of neglect, thankfully the Bannerman Castle Trust preserved the castle's unique design. It offers guided tours and events like movies or concerts in the warmer season.
Head out to Bannerman Island from Donohue Memorial Park in Cornwall-on-Hudson. First, begin your adventure with a leisurely paddle across the Hudson before arriving at Wee-bay, where a Bannerman Castle historian will meet you as you hike your way up through trails on the island.
If you don’t have the time for a paddle and hike, then just paddle around the island without ever getting out of your kayak — more time on the water, no time on foot. The castle is super photogenic, making it a great backdrop for Instagram posts. One favorite view for killer photos is around the northern side. Check out Storm King Adventure Tours and Mountain Valley Guides for more information.
Madonna Marsh is another tour that also leaves from Cornwall, and is a quieter, easier kayak perfect for first-timers. It's the perfect tour for bird watchers. Each tour to Moodna Marsh is different, but always exciting. You can never be sure of what you will see, there are often blue herons, egrets, beavers, geese and various species of turtles and ducks. Sometimes even a local bald eagle!
CROTON ON HUDSON
When I don’t want to be on the Hudson, I like Croton River for a chill relaxing paddle, Hudson Kayak offers tours and affordable rentals.
SLEEPY HOLLOW / TARRYTOWN
Kingsland Point Park
Hudson Kayak in Kingsland Point Park rents kayaks which you can take out on your own or get a guided tour. I have recently done both. If you have experience, you don’t need a guide (but always pay attention to the forecast and tides!) Heading south towards the bridge, you will pass the Sleepy Hollow LightHouse and the new-ish Scenic Hudson Park.
Horan’s Landing
Rivertown SUP & Yoga doesn’t offer kayaking but stand up paddle boarding is a great way to enjoy the river, so I am including it. And not just SUP, but also Yoga on paddle board! It’s a lot harder than it looks, but it was so joyful. Tara, our instructor and owner, taught us all the basics. We didn’t paddle too far out, but had so much fun doing downward dog, crescent lunge and rock star in the harbor with the Tappan Zee Bridge behind us. And, in true Sleepy Hollow fashion, there is a SUP Witches festival in October. Dress up like a witch and head out on a board. This festival continues to grow every year and is now a must for my spirited crew.
Tarrytown Lakes
Hudson Kayak also has an outpost here in Tarrytown. If you are just learning or want to take the kids or just want a super-chill paddle without the stress of the Hudson, then Tarrytown lakes is a great option. It's very calm and you really can’t go very far, but it's fun to just be out on the water on a nice day..
KINGSTON
While I have never been on the water in Kingston, on my last visit upstate, I noticed Hudson Valley Watersports and was intrigued, not just from the kayaks. They also rent Hydro-Bikes! Biking on the water is definitely next on my bucket list.
IRVINGTON AND DOBBS FERRY
Both towns have docks, but they’re not open to the public. Irvington’s is owned and operated by the Irvington Boat Club where anyone can apply for membership. Dobbs’ is run by the village and you must be a resident to use a slip. In both cases, you need to bring your own kayak.
NEW YORK CITY
I don’t get to paddling much in the city anymore, but if I were, Brooklyn Bridge Park and Pier 26 in Manhattan are highly recommended by my urban friends.
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