Where to go PaddleBoarding In the Hamptons
For a simple answer, ANYWHERE! Of all the places I have been in this big beautiful world, (and I almost never travel anywhere without my paddle!), I will say that you can not go wrong paddleboarding in the Hamptons, as we truly have some of the most beautiful beaches and bays I have ever explored.
If that answer was too broad :) here is a short list of my absolute favorite places to paddle in the Hamptons.
1- Northwest Creek, Northwest Woods, East Hampton
Shhhhh, this is a quiet, off the beaten path spot accessed at the end of a dead end road. Launching into Northwest Creek from a boat launch (be careful, it gets VERY SLIPPERY- the only downside to this launch spot) you enter into Northwest Creek, a secluded idyllic 'creek', with an open channel that gives you access into Northwest Harbor. (If you paddle to the left you have about a mile before you dead end and turn around to return to the launch, which is a great paddle in and of itself).
As you paddle through the channel and out into Northwest Harbor, depending on the wind you can either hook a left and paddle along the shoreline towards Sag Harbor OR take a right and paddle towards Cedar Point County Park. Either way, enjoy a swim, or stop off at the beach to sunbathe or swim.
2- Accabonac Harbor (Landing Lane)
No parking permit required at this gorgeous Springs, East Hampton location. Launching into Accabonac Harbor- head STRAIGHT out past Tick Island (it’s gorgeous, despite the name (!!!)), you can either stay inside the harbor OR brave the open bay water and paddle into Gardiners Bay. As always, be mindful of the wind direction and your personal skill level and always paddle into the wind (UPWIND) first to be sure you can get back easily (keeping in mind that mother Nature is unpredicatble and the wind can change at any time). Enjoy, this spot is absolutely gorgeous (I recommend water shoes at the launch spot- lots of broken shells.
3- Noyac Bay Avenue (Clam Island), Noyac/ Sag Harbor
I absolutely love this launch into Noyac Bay, with Jessups Neck to the left and Circle Beach to the right. If it’s windy in the bay, hightail it to the channel opening at Circle Beach and you will be provided protection inside the harbor (stop off for icecream at the Mill Creek Marina). (Tell them JBYoga sent you :)
As always when paddling, don't paddle alone (or make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you expect to be home), carry a communication device (your phone in a waterproof pouch), be sure you have enough water and protection from the elements, and take care of mother Nature (no littering, etc).. I know this goes without saying. :)
Enjoy!
