Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Georgian Bay: A Complete Guide

Georgian Bay's crystal-clear waters and dramatic shoreline make it one of the best paddling destinations in Ontario. Whether you prefer the stability of a kayak or the challenge of a stand-up paddleboard, the waters near Blue Mountain offer experiences ranging from calm harbour paddles to adventurous shoreline explorations.

Why Georgian Bay Is Special for Paddling

Georgian Bay is often called the Sixth Great Lake for good reason. Its waters are remarkably clear, its shoreline is varied and beautiful, and its sheltered bays and inlets provide conditions suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. The section near Blue Mountain and Collingwood offers a mix of sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and harbour areas that make for diverse paddling experiences.

Unlike open Lake Huron, many of the paddling areas near Collingwood are partially sheltered, which means calmer conditions and fewer concerns about large waves for recreational paddlers.

Best Launch Points

Collingwood Harbour

The harbour in downtown Collingwood is the most convenient launch point for paddlers staying in the Blue Mountain area. The harbour offers calm, protected water that is perfect for beginners and families. From here, you can paddle along the shore toward Sunset Point or explore the harbour breakwall.

• **Parking:** Available at the harbour parking lots
• **Conditions:** Calm, sheltered water
• **Best for:** Beginners, families, SUP

Sunset Point Park

Just outside downtown Collingwood, Sunset Point offers a beautiful beach launch with access to more open water. The sandy bottom makes for easy entries and exits, and the views from the water are stunning, especially in the late afternoon when the light turns golden.

• **Parking:** Park lot at Sunset Point
• **Conditions:** Moderate, can be choppy when winds are from the north
• **Best for:** Intermediate paddlers, sunset paddles

Thornbury Harbour

The quaint harbour town of Thornbury, about 20 minutes from Blue Mountain, offers excellent paddling opportunities. You can launch in the calm harbour waters and paddle along the shoreline in either direction. The views of the Escarpment from the water are exceptional.

• **Parking:** Available at the harbour and nearby streets
• **Conditions:** Sheltered harbour, more exposed outside the breakwall
• **Best for:** All skill levels

Craigleith Provincial Park

This park offers a unique paddling experience along a rocky shoreline. The water is clear and the shale bottom is visible in the shallows. Paddling along the park shoreline lets you see the distinctive layered rock formations from a perspective you cannot get from shore.

• **Parking:** Provincial park parking (park pass required)
• **Conditions:** Can be exposed to winds, best on calm days
• **Best for:** Experienced paddlers, photography

Kayaking Options

Guided Tours

Several outfitters in the area offer guided kayaking tours that include equipment, instruction, and a knowledgeable guide who knows the best routes and hidden spots:

• Tours typically last 2 to 3 hours
• Most include basic instruction for beginners
• Routes vary based on conditions and group ability
• Sunset tours are particularly popular and atmospheric

Kayak Rentals

Rental kayaks are available from several locations:

• Hourly and half-day rentals available
• Single and tandem kayaks offered
• Life jackets included with all rentals
• Basic instruction provided for first-time paddlers

Types of Kayaking Available

• **Recreational (sit-on-top)** — Stable, easy to use, great for beginners and casual paddlers
• **Touring (sit-inside)** — More efficient for longer paddles, better in choppy water
• **Tandem** — Two-person kayaks perfect for couples or a parent with a child

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Why SUP Is Perfect for Georgian Bay

The calm, clear waters of Georgian Bay's harbours and sheltered bays are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. On calm days, the water is flat enough to make balancing easy, and the clarity of the water creates an almost tropical feel as you paddle over the visible bottom.

SUP Rentals and Lessons

Multiple rental operators in Collingwood and Thornbury offer SUP rentals and introductory lessons:

• Boards are available in various sizes (wider boards are more stable for beginners)
• A 30-minute lesson is usually enough to get comfortable
• Rental periods range from one hour to full day

SUP Tips for Beginners

1. <strong>Start on your knees</strong>: &mdash; Get comfortable balancing before standing up
2. <strong>Keep your eyes on the horizon</strong>: &mdash; Looking down at your feet makes balancing harder
3. <strong>Use a wide stance</strong>: &mdash; Feet shoulder-width apart, centred on the board
4. <strong>Paddle on both sides</strong>: &mdash; Alternate sides every 3 to 4 strokes to track straight
5. <strong>Start in calm water</strong>: &mdash; The harbour or a sheltered bay is much easier than open water

Safety Considerations

Georgian Bay is a large body of water and conditions can change quickly. Follow these safety guidelines:

• **Always wear a life jacket** &mdash; Required by law for all watercraft in Canada
• **Check the weather forecast** &mdash; Wind and waves can build quickly, especially from the north and northwest
• **Stay close to shore** &mdash; Especially on your first few outings
• **Tell someone your plan** &mdash; Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return
• **Carry a whistle** &mdash; Required safety equipment under Canadian boating regulations
• **Know the water temperature** &mdash; Georgian Bay water can be cold, even in summer. Hypothermia is a real risk if you capsize far from shore.

Best Time for Paddling

The paddling season near Blue Mountain runs from late May through early October:

• **June** &mdash; Water is cold but the bay is less crowded
• **July and August** &mdash; Peak season with warmest water and busiest conditions
• **September** &mdash; Beautiful fall colours from the water, cooler but less crowded
• **Early Morning** &mdash; Calmest conditions and best light for photography
• **Late Afternoon** &mdash; Stunning sunset paddles from Sunset Point or Thornbury

Combine Paddling with Your Blue Mountain Stay

A day on the water pairs perfectly with the rest of what Blue Mountain has to offer. Paddle in the morning when conditions are calmest, spend the afternoon exploring the Village or hiking, and end the day with dinner in Collingwood.

Blue View Chalets provides an ideal base for a paddling vacation. Store your equipment safely at the chalet, rinse off and use the hot tub after a long paddle, and enjoy the full kitchen for preparing meals. Our waterfront property at 209555 Highway 26 is particularly well-positioned for accessing Georgian Bay's best paddling spots.