Kayaking offers a great way to get closer to nature and get more active while you’re on vacation. You might even have the opportunity to spot wildlife at these top kayaking destinations that you wouldn’t have been able to see from the shore. If you want to enjoy an escape where you can get out onto the water just steps from your door, these vacation rentals are particularly ideal – some even come with kayaks and other water sports gear.
Cottage in the Barn on Dragonfly Farm - Orcas Island, Washington
This two-bedroom cabin accommodates up to five guests and is located on Dragonfly Farm, five miles from the Orcas Island ferry terminal. The 25-acre property has gardens and a pond, with a canoe and kayaks included too. It adjoins Turtleback Mountain Preserve, providing easy access to hikes as well, some of which lead to spectacular views of the neighboring islands. You’ll have a full kitchen with spices, locally roasted coffee and tea, a propane BBQ, flat-screen TV with a DVD player and a DVD library.
The Love Boat - Manteo, North Carolina
The “Love Boat” offers the perfect romantic retreat right on the water. The catamaran cruise is located on Roanoke Island and floats in the tranquil marina, providing access to two kayaks as well as the marina clubhouse with an outdoor pool, gym and pool table. You’ll have all the comforts of home, including Wi-Fi, while being able to fall peacefully asleep in the calm water and you’ll even get a gift certificate to a local Kill Devil Hills restaurant, Stripers Bar & Grille, which offers an eclectic menu and waterfront dining.
The Beach House on Oyster Harbour - Ladysmith, British Columbia
The Beach House is located right on Oyster Harbour. You’ll have the beach and the water right at your doorstep, ideal for watersports – bring your own kayak, or rent one, and enjoy a paddling vacation. After a day of fun, you can come back and enjoy the view – there’s even a telescope for watching the boats and wildlife like seals, river otters and blue herons pass by as well as enjoying fantastic stargazing. It includes a one-bedroom, ideal for a couple, along with a full kitchen stocked with Keurig coffee pods, some freshly ground coffee, sugar and cream.
The Big Drake Cottage - Williamsburg, Michigan
One of the most luxurious Airbnbs in Michigan, the Big Drake Cottage is ideal for a large group, sleeping 16+ guests in eight bedrooms. It sits right on the south end of Elk Lake and has a small private beach. Your host rents kayaks, paddleboards, life vests and paddles with reservations, or you can bring your own. The home is extra spacious with lots of indoor and outdoor living space, including a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace and BBQ, along with all the usual comforts.
Guesthouse Overlooking Dyes Inlet - Bremerton, Washington
By booking this Airbnb you’ll feel like you’re staying right on the water. It’s just steps from Dyes Inlet, where wildlife sightings are frequent, including the occasional whale. Leave a window cracked in the evening and the sounds of the gentle waves will lull you to sleep. Not only that, but you can take advantage of complimentary kayaks to paddle out and explore. It accommodates up to two guests and includes a mini-kitchenette area with a microwave and mini-fridge, wine glasses and other utensils along with special extras like granola and yogurt.
Unique, Romantic and Fun Floating House - Portland, Oregon
Located in a Portland floating community, the floating Flamingo House is close to downtown and within walking distance of shopping and dining, yet it’s right on the water, providing one of the most unique Airbnbs in the United States. Bring your own kayaks, or rent them nearby (canoes and standup paddleboards are available too) so you can step out your door and paddle around. There’s an upstairs loft with a comfy queen-size bed and downstairs there’s a full kitchen with everything you need to make your own meals. You’ll have a washer/dryer, and a living room with a futon/couch and mounted TV too. Plus the bathroom has a full shower and tub.
Our Little Paradise Waterfront Home - Grand Mira North, Nova Scotia
This two-bedroom waterfront home provides spectacular views of the Mira River from the living room and two large decks. Two kayaks and lifejackets are included so you can sip your morning coffee from the lower deck while watching a colorful sunrise and then paddle down the river. It sleeps up to five and also includes a gazebo, hammock, and firepit for relaxing after a day of play, along with BBQs, a fully-equipped kitchen and a living room with a 27″ flat-screen TV, Ruku box with Netflix and Wi-Fi.
Beachfront Home on Stunning Island - Captiva Island, Florida
One of the dreamiest beachfront Airbnbs in the U.S., this ocean-view home sits on its own private island, allowing you to wake up and fall asleep to the sounds of the waves. It’s an ideal base for beachcombing, hiking on nearby nature trails as well as water sports like kayaking. Kayaks, bikes, beach chairs and even a golf cart for getting around. You’ll also have an open screened porch where you can relax with a gulf view, as well as enjoy access to the Pool Club with heated pools and a Jacuzzi, which is available for all guests.
Kasiana Island Kayak Cabin - Sitka, Alaska
Kasiana Island Cabin sits on the western shore of the island just a mile from Sitka, Alaska. It offers the chance to enjoy the remote wilderness, accessed by boat year-round, and kayak during the warmer months of the year. The host is willing to help take care of the travel arrangements, but you’ll want to be sure and wear your waterproof boots. Water is available by rain barrel, and you’ll have a BBQ and cooler (bring ice and food). It includes three kayaks, life vests, and paddles.
