Looking for a getaway near the water to enjoy the ever-popular stand up paddle boarding? Then look no further than Shelter Island NY; hands down it is a paddle boarder’s paradise. Located between the twin forks of Long Island clearly gives an advantage of location, accessibility and uniqueness. Shelter Island offers calm tranquil waters with unlimited water access, plus wildlife and nature scenes. Jump on a board and capture views of Ospreys catching fish in front of your eyes or the passing Egret, Herons, Swan or Deer all amongst the backdrop of sandy beaches, beach grass lined coves and quiet creeks. With one third of the island preserved as a nature conservancy and three protected marinas you are sure to find unparalleled beauty and tranquility abundant with animal and plant life.
If you are looking for more of a challenging boarding experience, then speak to the experts about the tides, in certain areas the tide runs fast and strong and can produce a counter current to give you a rigorous workout. For challenging group exercise try one of the paddleboard yoga classes offered through Venture Out. Venture out is located on Crescent Beach just a 10-minute walk from the West Neck Guesthouse. Boards can be reserved for use on the beach, long creek paddles in exclusive island locations, or they can be dropped off at any location on Shelter Island free of charge. Guided tours and lessons are offered as well. Should you be traveling with your own board be sure follow the safety rules of the island. Stand up paddle boarders must have a personal flotation device on the board for each person and they are required to be worn by children under 12 years of age.
The bays are still plenty warm in September so if you’re feeling competitive and philanthropic, then join the Great Peconic Race, September 9th. It is one of the East Coast’s premier paddle races for elite, intermediate and novice paddlers. The race features a 19-mile race course which circumnavigates Shelter Island, plus a 9 mile race course which goes halfway around. Proceeds are donated to support the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program. The race begins and ends at Wade’s Beach on Shelter Island, NY just a 2-mile drive from West Neck Guesthouse, hope to see you on the bays!!