So what if you've never been in a kayak? Even rookie paddlers can learn how to navigate these sleek vessels in calm and shallow waters. The adventure is made easier by Long Island outfits that organize kayak tours for beginners that include basic instruction, equipment rental and two to three hours of time on the water to practice. Here are a few places to get started:
Fridays on the Connetquot
Dowling College, Oakdale
631-244-3420
dowling.edu
When: 5:30 p.m. July 25 and Aug. 22
Cost: $50 includes clinic, tour and rental
Instructor Elizabeth O'Connor kicks off the weekend with a one-hour kayaking skills clinic at Dowling's Oakdale campus that teaches newbies how to paddle, steer and avoid capsizing. It's followed by a leisurely two-hour paddle that treats kayakers to a rare view of waterside real estate, nature and sunsets.
Also try: O'Connor's "South Shore" beginner evening tour at 5:30 p.m. July 23 and Aug. 20 at Osprey Park in Mastic Beach. It's $55; details at 631-451-6135 or
ksa-ltd.com.
Long Island Kayak Club
Stony Brook, Setauket and other locations
631-691-2396
longislandkayakclub.com
When: Most weekend afternoons, April-October
Cost: $60
Beginners 18 and older are welcome to join the veteran paddlers on 4- to 5-mile tours that explore the waters all over Long Island, including Caumsett State Park in Lloyd Harbor (11 a.m. Saturday) and Conscience Bay in Setauket (noon Sunday). Each session starts with a 15-minute demonstration and paddling practice.
Also try: The sunset tour from Alhambra Beach in Massapequa Aug. 10 at 5 p.m. or weekday outings to Georgica Pond in Wainscott (July 29 and Aug. 12).
Shelter Island Kayak Tours
Route 114 (at Planet Bliss), Shelter Island
631-749-1990
