moderate
2–4 hours
Participants should have basic cardiovascular fitness and upper body strength for steady paddling.
Aqua Trails delivers immersive kayak and paddleboard experiences on Cape May’s calm bays and marshes. Learn skills, spot wildlife, and navigate scenic waterways on locally guided tours and camps.
Cape May, New Jersey, lies at the southern tip of the state, where calm bays meet the Atlantic Ocean, creating a dynamic waterscape perfect for paddling. Aqua Trails offers a unique gateway to this aquatic world with a variety of kayak and paddleboard experiences that bring you up close to the region’s signature salt marshes, tidal creeks, and expansive waterways. Their offerings include immersive kayak clinics designed to prepare beginners and sharpen techniques for seasoned paddlers, plus guided tours that illuminate the local ecology and coastal charm.
What sets Aqua Trails apart in the Cape May outdoor scene is their dedicated focus on hands-on education combined with leisurely adventure. The kayak and paddleboard camps provide multi-day experiences where paddlers develop skills while taking in the spectacular coastal routes around Stone Harbor and the back bays of Cape May. The gentle water and abundant wildlife—such as osprey, herons, and sometimes playful river otters—make each trip a chance to connect directly with nature’s quiet rhythms.
Cape May’s geography features salt marshes that serve as vital nurseries for marine life and natural buffers against storms. Paddling these waters offers a close-up look at this fragile ecosystem, contrasting with the crisp breezes off Delaware Bay. The historical significance of Cape May as one of America’s oldest vacation spots adds depth to the natural setting, marrying picturesque landscapes with a rich cultural backdrop.
Whether joining a Stone Harbor kayak tour or attending a paddleboard camp, Aqua Trails provides gear, instruction, and local insight that elevate your experience beyond a simple outing. Their guided trips carve through sheltered inlets and winding channels, providing safe environments for learning and adventure. For those drawn to the water, Aqua Trails offers more than a paddle—it offers a deepened understanding and appreciation for Cape May’s living shoreline.
Beginner paddlers should take Aqua Trails’ kayak clinic to build confidence and proper technique before venturing into open water.
Cape May’s bays are tidal, so check tide charts to ensure smooth paddling conditions, especially when planning longer tours.
Even in summer, water temperatures can be cool; wear quick-dry or neoprene gear to stay comfortable if you get wet.
Salt marsh areas can have mosquitoes and other insects, particularly at dawn and dusk—bug spray is a must-have accessory.
Cape May has been a seaside destination since the 18th century, with its bays playing key roles in fishing and trade.
Local efforts focus on protecting salt marsh habitats that support fisheries and act as natural storm buffers.
A personal flotation device is mandatory for safety on all paddling trips.
Keeps phones, snacks, and essentials dry during boat rides and unexpected splashes.
Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics keep you comfortable when exposed to water and sun.
summer|spring|fall specific
Protect hands during chilly paddles and improve grip in cold conditions.
fall|winter specific