Kayaking in Dorset is a popular water sports activity. If you’re new to kayaking and want to give it a go, there are some calm and shallow waters around Dorset to test out your confidence and skills. There are also plenty of water sports companies in Dorset offering kayak lessons if you’d like some extra tuition.
What is kayaking?
A kayak is a small, narrow vessel which is propelled through the water by a double bladed paddle.
Is kayaking safe for non-swimmers?
It’s always advisable to invest in the correct safety attire as you may fall into the water when you are kayaking. The sport is suited to swimmers.
Can you kayak all year round?
Kayaking is generally a Spring, Summer and Autumn activity due to the weather conditions of the water. However it’s not unheard of to kayak in the Winter months, just be prepared with weather conditions and dress appropriately.
Kayaking In Bournemouth
Mudeford Quay
Parking at: Mudeford Quay Car Park, Christchurch BH23 4AB
At ShoreSports, you can hire kayaks if you don’t have your own to paddle up past Christchurch harbour. Lessons are also available to book for beginners, and kayak tours to see the sights.
Kayaking In Lyme Regis
Charmouth
Parking at: DT6 6QX
Kayaks can be launched at Charmouth from the beach. There are plenty of routes you can take with your kayak along the shore from Charmouth. Lyme Regis is a short distance away.
Kayaking In Poole
Sandbanks
Parking at: Shore Road car park, or there is some road parking in off peak times.
The Water Sports Academy in Poole offer hire or they teach on single or double kayaks. You can enjoy stunning views of Poole Harbour from your kayak in the shallow waters.
Poole Park
Parking at: Free parking in Poole Park, Parkstone, Poole, BH15 2SF
Kayaks are available for hire at Poole Park on an hourly basis if you want to take a trip out on the lake. No pre booking is required, just turn up and pay. Kayaks are available to hire 7 days a week between 10am – 4pm from April onwards.
Kayaking In Wareham
Kimmeridge Bay
Parking at: The Toll Hut, Kimmeridge Approach Road, Kimmeridge, Wareham BH20 5PF (£5 charge via the toll hut)
The waters at Kimmeridge are easily accessed by the slipway. The bay itself is quite sheltered and calm making it a great place for kayaking. There are plenty of shallow ledges as you approach Kimmeridge.
Lulworth Cove
Guided kayak tours are offered between Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door by Lulworth Activities. This kayaking adventures takes around 3 hours, where you’ll learn paddling techniques. What a great way to see the Jurassic Coast.
Kayaking In Weymouth And Portland
Portland Harbour
With views across the Jurassic Coast and Portland Castle, Portland Harbour is a is a great place to learn or practice kayaking. The water offers some of the best conditions on the south coast of England and is accessible across tide times.
Weymouth Paddle Board And Kayak
This drop in rental centre at Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth has kayaks and wetsuits for hire. Why not enjoy some time in the water in the paddling area at Bowleaze Cove.
Kayaking In Dorset Resources
Why not experience some of the other outdoor adventure activities in Dorset, or some paddle boarding.