Top 7 Best Destinations to Kayak in 2025
Kayaking enthusiasts, rejoice! 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for paddling adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, the world offers breathtaking destinations perfect for exploring on the water. Here are the top 7 kayaking spots to add to your bucket list this year.
Karimunjawa Archipelago, Indonesia
If pristine turquoise waters and vibrant marine life call to you, Karimunjawa is a dream come true. This collection of 27 islands offers tranquil lagoons, coral reefs, and sandy beaches—ideal for a serene kayaking experience. Glide through mangroves, snorkel between paddles, and soak in the tropical beauty.
Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season)
Bahía Borrero, Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are famed for their unique wildlife, and Bahía Borrero on Santa Cruz Island is no exception. Kayaking here means sharing the water with playful sea lions, sea turtles, and a myriad of fish. The volcanic landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop to your adventure.
Best Time to Visit: June to December (cooler, drier season)
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Known as the crown jewel of marine biodiversity, Raja Ampat is a paradise for water lovers. Paddle through crystal-clear waters dotted with limestone karsts and vibrant coral reefs. The sheer variety of marine life will make every stroke unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Antarctica
For the ultimate adventure, kayaking in Antarctica offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Paddle past towering icebergs, playful penguins, and seals lounging on ice floes. The serene silence of this icy wilderness is truly otherworldly.
Best Time to Visit: November to March (summer)
Norway’s Fjords
Norway’s fjords are a masterpiece of nature, with steep cliffs plunging into deep, serene waters. Kayaking here offers a peaceful way to explore dramatic landscapes, picturesque villages, and cascading waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Misty Fjords, Southeast Alaska
This stunning wilderness area lives up to its name with mist-shrouded cliffs, dense forests, and pristine waters. Kayakers here can expect encounters with seals, porpoises, and bald eagles, all while surrounded by untouched natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit: June to August
Greenland’s East Coast
Greenland’s rugged east coast offers a surreal kayaking experience among glaciers and fjords. Paddle past towering icebergs and experience the raw power of nature in one of the most remote places on Earth.
Best Time to Visit: July to September