Summer’s here and it’s the perfect time to hire, borrow or dust off the kayak sitting in the shed. Why not try out visiting one of our favourite spots to kayak with kids in South Australia.
When kayaking with kids always remember safety comes first so insure you check the weather conditions before you head out as a windy day will quickly ruin your kayaking plans. Make sure your life jackets are in good condition and fit well and take lots of snacks, water and sunscreen!
Innes National Park
Coming in at our number one fave is Innes National Park, you can kayak over to many of the little islands and get a close up look at the reef while also getting a visit from some of the local cheeky seals. The photo here is Penguin Point at Marion Bay.
Rapid Bay and Second Valley
Another stunner to visit. While kayaking along the coast you’ll find a tone of caves and secret beaches to pull up on and eat some lunch or let the kids out for a run, not only is the view spectacular but don’t forget the fishing rod and you might go home with a squid or two for dinner!
Garden Island, Port Adelaide
Another cracker of a spot is Garden Island, Port Adelaideif you’re lucky you might find a pod of curious dolphins that will approach your kayak if you stay still enough. Remember to never attempt to chase them if you’re patient they will come to you. Along with the friendly wildlife there’s also a mini Aussie Amazon you can cruise though (remember the mozzie spray for this one) and if all that’s not enough you’ll find ship wrecks along your way you can also explore.
If guided kayak tours are your thing we can highly recommend booking a tour with Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tours here. A three hour adventure through the calm creeks and waterways in this area. You’ll paddle through mangroves, past shipwrecks and maybe even spot a dolphin or two!
Finniss River Trail
The scenic Finniss River Trail is a relatively safe paddle for kids and beginners along the reed-protected Finniss river on the Fleurieu Peninsula. You’ll explore the it’s an 8km round trip that will take around 4 hours.
Lake Albert, Meningie
Tranquil and protected waters makes this a great spot for birdwatching so pack your binoculars.
image credit Melanie Jane
Carrickalinga Beach
Carrickalinga Beach is also a great spot to kayak with kids. The water is quiet, clean and clear and you might even spot a pod of dolphins.
image credit @scottyo34
Murray River
And of course we can’t forget the Mighty Murray River. You can pretty much throw in your kayak anywhere you can access the water with your kayak. We love Waikerie, Renmark, Mannum and the Katarapko Creek Canoe Trail and Murray Bridge Canoe Trail.
Myponga Reservoir
The Myponga Reservoir Reserve opened to the general public in 2021 with on-water access for kayaking. Bring your own kayak or hire one from Myponga Kayak Hire (call ahead to book) – click here to read more about Myponga
Warren Reservoir
Just out of Williamstown is a great place to kayak. Bring your own or hire one from Barossa Kayak Hire.
image credit @barossakayakhire
Happy Valley Reservoir
Recently opened to the public bring your kayak or canoe and discover hidden bays and shorelines of this area from the water.
Click here to read more about this spot
image credit Helen Karapandzic
Arno Bay
The Eyre Peninsula has some incredible kayaking spots including Arno Bay where you can follow the boardwalk through dense mangroves and mudflats, sapphire habitats, small tributaries and the main estuary waterway.
image credit @our.whittle.wanderers
And while you’re on the Eyre
Tranquil and protected waters makes this a great spot for birdwatching so pack your binoculars.
image credit @our.whittle.wanderers
When kayaking with kids always remember safety comes first so insure you check the weather conditions before you head out as a windy day will quickly ruin your kayaking plans. Make sure your life jackets are in good condition and fit well and take lots of snacks, water and sunscreen!
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