Kayaking the Nissequogue River

Starting on the banks of Nissequogue River State Park, this 6 mile journey makes you feel like you’re cruising down river in the south, when you’re really on Long Island. I really suggest going as high tide is rolling in as there can be some shallow sections along this trip. Head out into the open water (which is still technically the Long Island Sound) while keeping toward the middle/right side of the river. Keep an eye out for boats coming in from the Long Island Sound in the beginning as well. Continue down the Nissequogue River and it will begin to get narrower, creating some fun little canal paths with great currents to shoot through. Once through the small canal section the river slowly winds the rest of the way down.

You will see a lot of wildlife along the banks of the river, we saw two egrets, red-winged blackbirds, muskrats, two swans, and more. *Note, be careful around the swans if you see them, they swim right at the kayak and hiss, then follow you for a little bit (see photo above). This is a really great trip to take in the early to mid summer when everything is blooming, especially on a sunny day. The winding river, peace and quiet, and very high grass along the banks provide a great atmosphere for a day of fun.

The best place to finish is at the Paul T. Given County Park, (right off 25A). There are stairs that go into the water where you can dock and get out, as well as a parking area less then 50 yards away. If you go and high tide is at its peak or just beginning to go back out, reverse this route and follow the tide back out towards the Long Island Sound.