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Comprehensive Guide to Where to Kayak in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city that offers a unique and diverse array of kayaking opportunities, from the serene waters of Bayou St. John to the lush, wildlife-rich Manchac Swamp. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there’s a perfect kayaking destination for you in and around the Crescent City.

Best Places to Kayak in and Near New Orleans

Where can I kayak in New Orleans?
  1. Bayou St. John
  2. Location: Within New Orleans city limits.
  3. Launch Sites: Multiple launch points along Wisner Blvd and near Bayou Paddlesports where Moss St. turns into Florida Ave.

  4. Description: A calm and scenic waterway with historic homes and no motor vessels allowed, making it ideal for families and beginners.

  5. Manchac Swamp

  6. Location: Approximately 35 minutes northwest of New Orleans.
  7. Launch Site: Manchac Boat Ramp.

  8. Description: Known for its bald cypress trees, freshwater grasses, and diverse wildlife including owls, frogs, and alligators. It offers a network of waterways to explore.

  9. Bayou Sauvage

  10. Location: Within New Orleans city limits.
  11. Launch Sites: Hwy 11 Boat Launch, Joe Madere Marsh Canoe Launch, and Crabbing Bridge Rd.

  12. Description: A gently sloped launch area with non-motorized boat access, featuring shallow waters and marsh grass roosting spots for ducks.

  13. Fort Proctor

  14. Location: Accessible via Campo’s Marina, St. Bernard Parish.
  15. Launch Site: Campo’s Marina – 1301 Yscloskey Hwy, St Bernard, LA 70085.

  16. Description: A historic fort ruin surrounded by Lake Borgne, accessible only by boat. Suitable for paddlers of all skill levels.

  17. Bogue Chitto River

  18. Location: About an hour’s drive from New Orleans, passing through Bogue Chitto State Park in Washington Parish, LA.
  19. Launch Sites: Fisherman’s Landing Rd and Pools Bluff Rd.

  20. Description: A relaxing downstream kayak adventure with cypress tupelo swamps, sandy beaches, and opportunities for tubing and picnics.

  21. Honey Island Swamp

  22. Location: Near Slidell, LA.
  23. Launch Site: Specific launch site not detailed, but tours are available.

  24. Description: Known for its unique backwoods experience, including broken-down houseboats and rope swings, and the legend of the Honey Island Swamp Monster.

  25. Bayou Bienvenue

  26. Location: East of New Orleans, near the French Quarter.
  27. Launch Site: Bayou Bienvenue Marina – 2001 Paris Rd, New Orleans, LA 70129.
  28. Description: A challenging route with narrow inlets and tight spaces, ideal for practicing paddling skills.
What are the best kayak tours in New Orleans?
  1. Manchac Magic Kayak Swamp Tour
  2. Duration: Half-day.
  3. Cost: Varies, but generally around $60-$80 per person.
  4. Included: Guided tour through Manchac Swamp, local guide, and access to areas not reachable by larger boats.

  5. Description: Beginner-friendly, exploring the swamps near New Orleans with a focus on natural habitat and wildlife.

  6. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours

  7. Duration: Half-day to full-day tours.
  8. Cost: Prices vary depending on the tour, but generally range from $60 to $120 per person.
  9. Included: Guided tours, kayak rental, and access to unique swamp areas. Some tours include plantation visits and fishing excursions.

  10. Description: Offers various tours including Manchac Swamp, Honey Island Swamp, and Bayou Bienvenue. These tours cater to different skill levels and interests.

  11. Wild Louisiana Tours

  12. Duration: Half-day to multi-day tours.
  13. Cost: Prices vary, but generally range from $60 to $200 per person depending on the tour.
  14. Included: Guided tours, kayak rental, and access to remote swamp areas. Some tours include photography excursions, fishing trips, and plantation visits.
  15. Description: Offers a range of tours focusing on different aspects such as wildlife, photography, and cultural experiences. Guides are extensively trained on the natural history of Louisiana.
Where can I rent kayaks in New Orleans?
  1. Bayou Paddlesports
  2. Location: Near Bayou St. John, New Orleans.
  3. Pricing: Rental prices vary but generally range from $20 to $50 per hour or $40 to $100 per day.
  4. Equipment: Kayaks, canoes, paddles, and life jackets.

  5. Description: Offers kayak rentals and launch services for paddling Bayou St. John.

  6. Bogue Chitto State Park

  7. Location: Washington Parish, LA.
  8. Pricing: Rental prices typically range from $20 to $50 per day.
  9. Equipment: Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets.

  10. Description: Offers kayak rentals within the state park, ideal for exploring the Bogue Chitto River.

  11. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours

  12. Location: Various launch sites near New Orleans.
  13. Pricing: Included in the cost of the guided tour, which ranges from $60 to $120 per person.
  14. Equipment: Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets.
  15. Description: Provides kayak rentals as part of their guided tours, ensuring all necessary equipment is available.

Reference Links

  1. Paddle Your State: Best Kayaking Spots Around New Orleans
  2. NOLA Activities: Kayak New Orleans: 3 Paddling Routes
  3. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours: New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours

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