I was first introduced to kayaking on a trip to Ontario from England years ago. We stayed in a vacation rental cabin on a small lake and the cabin came with two kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. We had never kayaked before and although it was a bit stressful going in the first time, I was amazed at how stable the kayaks were and how much fun we could have in them. We explored the lake and all the little inlets; I came across a pair of loons nesting; snapping turtles basking on a log, and on one amazing day, he came around a bend in a small bay and saw a young moose that had just come out of the water. It was one of those hidden gems that we never expected to see on that amazing vacation.

Many lakes and rivers.

Ontario has 250,000 lakes and thousands of miles of navigable rivers, so there are plenty of places and opportunities for a kayak or canoe trip. From a half day paddle around one of the inland lakes, finding small inlets to explore and wildlife to see, to a longer camping and transport trip in a National or Provincial Park, there is something for everyone. Renting a beachfront cabin is a great option, as many of these vacation rentals offer non-motorized boats included in the rental fee. That could be a rowboat, a canoe, a rowboat, or if you’re lucky, a couple of kayaks.

The best places to kayak

The smaller lakes are ideal for kayaking and if you can find a non-motorized lake, even better because there is no risk of being struck by the wake of passing motor boats. Ontario’s rivers are perfect for this activity, but be prepared for “hauling,” which means you have to get the boat out of the water and around an obstacle, perhaps a dam or shallow rapids. Sea kayaking in Georgian Bay and around the Bruce Peninsula is also an option for more experienced enthusiasts. Cabins in Muskoka, Kawarthas, Parry Sound and Eastern Ontario are likely to have suitable boats.

Find a cabin to rent

There are thousands of cabins offered for rent, generally from spring (mid-May) through fall (early October). You’ll get a much better deal and more choice outside of the peak season weeks in July and August, and you’ll also be able to book a weekend or mid-week break that isn’t usually available in the summer. Rental agencies will have personally examined each cabin and can usually tell you more about kayaking opportunities in the area, although there are plenty of privately advertised cabins as well. Don’t forget to confirm which boats are available for your group and if life jackets are provided for your use. If they are, you are responsible for making sure they fit correctly or you may be liable for a fine.

Enjoy your kayak trip in Ontario – it will be an experience you will never forget.