Kayaking In New Orleans (Places To Kayak) | Get the Experience Of A Lifetime!

Fact Checked By James A Rockey | Post Updated On: November 30, 2022
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New Orleans is one of the American classic and beautiful cities, nested on the Mississippi River banks that offers a rare combination of being very relaxed and touristy as well as kayaking. Some of the best kayaking destinations in New Orleans are Bayou St. John, New Orleans City Park, Honey Island Swamp, Cane Bayou, Manchac Swamp, etc.

Key Takeaways

  • St. John is known for family and couple picnicking and best kayaking place for both beginner and seasoned paddles
  • Honey Island Swamp is located in the Eastern portion of Pearl River, Louisiana and it offers nerve-racking adventure for any kayaker
  • The natural beauty of Cane Bayou will blow your mind off as this place is considered to be one of the least altered bayous in the state of Louisiana
  • Manchac swap offers you the opportunity to see an array of wildlife as you paddle and give you a remarkable kayaking experience

Where Can I Kayak In New Orleans? (10 Best Places)

There are numerous places where you can go kayaking activities in the city. Some of the best-known places you won’t want to miss are our Bayou St. John, New Orleans City Park, honey island swamp, cane bayou, Manchan Swamp, and New Orleans plantation tour and swamp kayak to name a few. Those places will offer you memorable times of your lifetime.

Let now look more into each one of them to understand what they offer and what to expect. For a better experience, try more than one, and if time and money allow you, go for all.

Here Are Some Popular Kayak Tours In New Orleans:

1. Bayou St. John

If you are a well-experienced kayaker and want to put your skills to the test, then don’t waste your time making your way there for an elating kayak experience. The picturesque neighborhood, such as the fairgrounds, makes it even more exciting. Bayou St. John is known for family and couple picnicking. Just rent a kayak, or a paddleboard gets into the water and enjoys quality time with your loved ones. It’s also pretty good for a beginner or seasoned individual who wants to explore what the world offers. 

2. New Orleans City Park

The historical park is located in the heart of the city and features lush, sprawling surroundings covered in tall trees, I.e., oaks and picturesque canopies. You can enjoy a fun-filled water activity with your loved ones and friends; it doesn’t matter if you are a learner or an experienced kayaker. The calm water of these astounding ponds offers you a chance to enjoy kayaking in style and peace. Many tourists and locals in New Orleans argue that there is no better place in the city for kayaking than New Orleans city parks. 

3. Honey Island Swamp

The swamp is located in the Eastern portion of Pearl River, Louisiana. It was named after honey bees that were initially seen along the aisle. It’s considered by many to be the most pristine swampland habitat in the area. But solo kayaking on this deep water island can be a nerve-racking adventure for any kayaker, so it’s advisable to go as a group. 

Honey island swamp is perfect for staunch outdoor lovers and New Orleans bachelor parties looking for a great time and does fall head over heels for a swamp primitive ecosystem. It’s also an excellent location for someone who wants to learn about this place’s history and the importance of the ecosystem in our surroundings. All this makes the site outstanding for any tourist kayaker who needs paddling in a serene environment that offers more experience.

4. Cane Bayou

Even before you land in this place, any severe kayaker will not want to miss any chance of getting the experience of kayaking in this calm water. The natural beauty of Cane Bayou will blow your mind off as this place is considered to be one of the least altered bayous in the state of Louisiana. It runs from the Northshore in between Mandeville and Lacombe, finally flowing into Lake Pontchartrain. So plan yourself accordingly, and don’t miss this opportunity of kayaking in this marine life that has many things to offer. 

5. Manchac Swamp

Don’t even tell anyone that you were in New Orleans and missed this spot, as they say, a trip to this place is not at all complete without visiting the iconic Manchac Swamp, we do conquer with the same sentiments. It’s undoubtedly a must-visit location, more so for staunch lovers who are fascinated with watersport activities. Do you know Manchac Swamp Bridge is considered to be among the longest bridges in the world over the water? It is also known to be the longest bridge in the interstate highway system stretches for a total of 23 miles, i.e., 37 kilometers! Now you know.

Manchac swap offers you the opportunity to see an array of wildlife as you paddle. The dense Cypress forest and expansive wetlands’ and calm water are suitable for both beginners and adventure seekers. This gorgeous, picturesque, and natural kayak swamp tour will offer you a remarkable experience.

6. The Best Place For Kayaking In New Orleans Is Located On Lake Pontchartrain.

It’s called Yellow Jack Bayou Park. There are two entrances on either side of the bayou depending on whether you want a flatwater or whitewater experience. There’s also a walking trail that leads alongside the bayou, which is great for bird-watching.

7. Kayakitiyat

Explore the French Quarter and learn about its history on a tour that features cocktails and crawfish while kayaking.

8. Kayak Along The Mississippi River In Bayou Paddlesports

Experience life on both sides of the river as it makes its way into Louisiana bayous.

9. Crescent City Kayak – Swamp Tours

Immerse yourself in natural beauty and explore the wildlife with your paddles in hand

10. There Are Also Some Lesser-Known Places For Kayaking In New Orleans Such As The Canoe Kayak Club Orleans Where You Can Paddle Out Into The Gulf Of Mexico And Watch Pelicans Dive Into The Water.

List Of 7 Kayak Rentals In New Orleans

Kayak rentals are an affordable and convenient way to explore the city. These rental companies provide kayaks for people to paddle on the Mississippi River.

In this list, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the different locations in the New Orleans area where you can rent from them.

SerialKayak Rentals NameDetails
1.Happiness Bayou ToursAddress: De Pope Launch & Tavern, 6201 E St Bernard Hwy #F, Violet, LA 70092

Phone: (504) 421-3059
2.Massey’s Kayak RentalsAddress: 509 N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119

Phone: (504) 648-0292
3. Bayou PaddlesportsPhone: (504) 515-3398
Products and Services: places.singleplatform.com
4.Wheel Fun RentalsAddress: City Park, Big Lake Trail, New Orleans, LA 70124

Phone: (504) 300-1289
5.Canoe and Trail Adventures ToursPhone: (504) 233-0686
Appointments: canoeandtrail.com
6.New Orleans Kayak Swamp ToursPhone: (504) 571-9975
Appointments: fareharbor.com
7.Admire New Orleans – Kayak Tours,Phone: (504) 608-5322

FAQ

Are Kayak Swamp Tours Safe?

Well, it depends on many things. But one thing is for sure kayaking in this deep water can be nerve-racking and not suitable for a solo learner. Many swamps around have an array of wild animals, which can frighten some people who are not used to though their fears are genuine since these animals might attack you.

To ensure your safety while kayaking in the swamp, you should go as a group or seek tour companies’ assistance in those places for their guidance and company.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To New Orleans?

For a financially conscious person, the cheapest month to visit this location is from June to September, when it’s off-season. But generally, New Orleans is among the most competitive tourist destination in the world. So, what we might consider as a peak season for you, i.e., February, may still be affordable. Your financial stability and budget will determine which fits you well if it peaks or off-peak seasons.

Is It Safe To Kayak Around Alligators In New Orleans?

Yes, it is! But you have to be very conscious of your surrounding at any given time. When you find yourself kayaking with alligators’ don’t let their presence discourage you. Just remember the swap is their home, and you are simply an intruder to them. Though where there are healthy populations of alligators means there is a healthy population of fish as well.

We know some of you will be afraid, but just now, the creatures will also be more fearful than you. If you plan to kayak in an area where there are these animals, take your time to understand their behavior and warning signs, so you know what to look for and avoid totally.

Are There Crocodiles In New Orleans?

Yes, they are, and you should be careful while kayaking in those swamps invested by these reptiles. Go as a group or with the fishermen in the area who know their surroundings very well. And yes, one can kayak in those waters without harm befalls on them just like any other water out there while minding their business and avoiding any interference with them. 

What Is The Best Swamp Tour To Take In New Orleans?

As mentioned earlier, some of the best tours in New Orleans include; Honey Island kayak swamp tours, Manchac swamp kayak tours, and New Orleans plantation tour& swamp kayak. Make an effort to get all the experience from all of them, and you can try others not mentioned here.

This ecosystem has many things to offer apart from wildlife and beautiful natural surroundings. Don’t miss the chance, and remember to share your experience.

How Long Are New Orleans Swamp Tours?

The tours in various locations in this area take two to eight hours maximum a day. But, timing varies with many things like money,  touring company rules, and your capability in terms of paddling and weather, to name a few. Go with what you feel fits you for an enjoyable and non-tiring adventure. Don’t be forced into a schedule that you are not comfortable with! Just know what you want for you to have a great time.

Final Takeaway

We have said all the exciting things that New Orleans has to offer for a kayaker like you. But it’s also good to give you an early warning before you embark on your journey. This city is among the top cities in the world known to have a higher crime rate, and the probability of tourists being mugged, raped, or murdered is high. To avoid being a victim, ensure you wear casual clothes and accessories so as not to attract attention. 

Walk with your cards, and affordable items, night drinking is not suitable for a solo person and less money with you and avoid the known dangerous street. Do your research pretty well to weigh your expectations. But all the same, don’t kayak every day; take your time to visit the French Quarter, enjoy their food and culture, and it will be worth it all.

References:

  • https://www.viator.com/New-Orleans-tours/Kayaking-and-Canoeing/d675-g17-c57
  • https://neworleanskayakswamptours.com/

 

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