The local area is a kayaking and paddleboarding paradise with beautiful scenery and a rich maritime history. With many great places to paddle for all skill levels, everyone should get out on the water. Paddling is a great way to stay active during your getaway. The natural oasis of Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn is the perfect place to base your adventure. Whether you bring your equipment or rent locally, here’s some local advice to help you plan your adventure. As avid paddlers ourselves, these are our favorite places to kayak and paddleboard in the Mystic, Connecticut area:
1. The Mystic River: The Mystic River tidal basin offers a serene paddling experience with charming views of centuries-old waterfront homes and historic seafaring vessels. Experience iconic landmarks like the Mystic Seaport Museum and the historic drawbridge up close from the unique vantage point of the water. Enjoy viewing the tall ships at Mystic Seaport without paying for admission. Heading north on the river, keep an eye out for local wildlife. You’ll see ospreys nesting, herons and egrets fishing, and turtles sunbathing. Heading south toward Fishers Island Sound, many bustling marinas dot the waterfront. Launch from either of two public access points. One is a state boat launch on River Road with ample parking in an unpaved lot. The launch area is steep, which is a consideration for those with mobility issues. A more accessible launch spot is adjacent to Mystic Seaport at the corner of Bay Street and Isham Street. The launch is paved and more accessible. Drop off your gear and park on a nearby street.
2. Stonington Harbor: Paddle past classic yachts at anchor, explore hidden coves and sheltered inlets, and enjoy views of the village’s stately homes built in the 1700s and 1800s. You can launch from an area shared by the Stonington Town Dock and Connecticut’s last commercial fishing fleet. There is free parking. A small launch beach is maintained by the Stonington Small Boat Association. While in there area, stroll quaint Stonington Village, with its lovely shops, restaurants, and Stonington Lighthouse.
3. Barn Island to Napatree Beach or Sandy Point: The route from Barn Island to Napatree Beach or Sandy Point is ideal for more experienced kayakers. Begin your adventure at the Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, which has a large, free, paved parking lot and launch area. Paddle out into Little Narragansett Bay past salt marshes teeming with birdlife. As you enter the open water, be mindful of summer boating traffic. You can choose the beaches of Sandy Point or Napatree as your destination. Bring sandwiches, drinks, and towels to enjoy some time at these pristine, uncrowded beaches before paddling back to your starting point.
4. Long Pond: Tucked away amidst lush forests and rolling hills, Long Pond offers a tranquil oasis for all skill levels, especially beginning paddlers. It is just 1 mile from Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn. You can park for free and launch from the public boat launch at the north end of the pond. Watch for turtles basking in the sun, frogs hopping along the water’s edge, and songbirds flitting through the trees. There are resident bald eagles and great blue herons. With its pristine beauty and sense of serenity, Long Pond is the perfect spot to reconnect with nature and recharge your soul.
5. Lakes of Isles: Just 1 mile from Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn, Lakes of Isles is nestled amidst one of the best golf courses in Connecticut. This popular spot for paddlers has a spacious, paved, free parking lot and convenient launch area. The shallow water lets you see turtles while golfers tee off and golf carts cross the wooden bridge on the lake.
Where To Rent Kayaks and Paddleboards:
Adventure Mystic: You can rent paddleboards and single or double kayaks for anything from a couple of hours to a few days to a week. You can launch right from their location for a paddle on the Mystic River. They are located at 15 Holmes Street in downtown Mystic, CT.
Blue Heaven Kayak and Paddle Board Rentals: They rent anywhere from an hour to a full day. You can launch from their location on the Mystic River: 37 Water Street, downtown Mystic, CT.
Elevate Your Paddling Adventure at Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn:
After a day of paddling adventures, unwind in comfort and style in our luxurious beds. Each room at Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn is designed to provide the perfect sanctuary, ensuring a restful night’s sleep to recharge for your next day of exploration.
Reconnect with nature as you relax on our charming grounds or stroll through the nearby forest trails, rejuvenating your mind, body, and spirit. Make Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn your home base for your adventure and discover the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty.
Book your stay at Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn! We look forward to welcoming you.
