What is the best weather to go kayaking in?
Mia Phillips
Updated on February 27, 2026
Air Temperature Anything over 50 degrees makes things much more enjoyable for kayaking, but the best weather conditions for kayaking involve air temperatures over 70 degrees. That helps to make up for colder waters when you’re assessing the 120-degree rule.
Can you kayak in bad weather?
We’d never recommend going paddling in a thunderstorm. If the weather looks like it’s going to be stormy, just hang up your paddles and go another day.
What time of year is best for kayaking?
Most kayak trips are usually scheduled during the winter because the good weather offers excellent paddling conditions and coincides with peaks in the number of wildlife. Nevertheless, kayakers should watch out for rain and storms that may accompany the cold fronts coming down from the north.
What are ideal kayaking conditions?
Warm, dry weather, calm water, and thorough safety precautions make for amazing kayaking conditions. However, you’ll still want to pay close attention to the forecast and other signs of fast-changing weather.
What is bad wind speed for kayaking?
The best way to tell if it is too windy for you is to be honest with yourself about your experience and skill level. If you’ve never been kayaking before, then it is safest to follow the rule of thumb that you shouldn’t kayak unless the wind speed is below 10 knots / 12 mph.
Is 12 mph wind strong for kayaking?
Winds & Waves Generally, any wind under 10 knots (about 11.5 mph) offers safe kayaking regardless of wind direction. When the the wind hits closer to the 12 knot mark, less experienced kayakers should play it safe and stay close to shore .
Can you kayak in 20 mph winds?
At the point that wind speeds reach 17 knots or 20 mph, the conditions can get quite dangerous. With wind speeds this high, waves begin to increase in height. Typically, only advanced kayakers who have strength, stamina and experience on their side would go out in these conditions.
What month can I start kayaking?
What Is the Best Season for Kayaking? Most people find that late spring to early summer is the best time to go kayaking. By this point in the year, the weather is generally warm enough to not have to bundle up, but it isn’t so hot that you have to worry about keeping cool either.
Can you kayak alone?
You can paddle alone, but you should make sure people know where you are going. Paddling alone is riskier, and even the most experienced paddlers can run into trouble sometimes. After taking your paddler’s safety course, you might be tempted to think you can handle everything—and maybe you are right.