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19 Best Places to Go Kayaking in Ottawa + Rentals 2024
Kayaking in Ottawa is a great way to spend a summer or fall day.
The city has several kayaking spots that are perfect for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
I’ll give you the rundown on the best places to go kayaking in Ottawa, as well as where to rent kayaks if you don’t have your own.
Even people like me with poor upper body strength can enjoy paddling in the calm waters of the Tay River. The more adventurous can take on the white water kayaking of the upper Ottawa River and Mississippi River.
Although more people love to kayak near Toronto, I think Ottawa is my fave place to kayak in Canada – probably since I live here and go more often.
So, whether you want a leisurely kayak trip or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Ottawa has got you covered!
🚣 I recommend this kayaking tour of Ottawa
19 Best Places to Go Paddling and Kayaking in Ottawa
1. Ottawa River
The Ottawa River is easily the best place to go kayaking in Ottawa. Running the length of the city, it offers kayakers of all levels a place to paddle.
If you want a calm kayaking experience, stick to the section of the river near downtown Ottawa. Here you’ll find gentle currents and plenty of places to stop and rest.
Further upstream, the Ottawa River gets more challenging. This is where you’ll find kayakers testing their skills on the rapids. In fact, it’s one of the best whitewater rafting destinations in Canada!
If you’re new to kayaking or don’t feel comfortable paddling in white water, I recommend staying clear of this section of the river.
There are access points to enter the Ottawa River. Here are some of my favourite spots (many of which are specifically named on this list!):
- Downtown Ottawa
- Montebello
- Kemptville
- Cobden (best for white water rafting)
- Petrie Island
- Remic Rapids Park
- Britannia Beach
- Shirley’s Bay Park
- Sheila McKee Memorial Park
- Kemptville
Distance From Downtown: In downtown Ottawa to 3 hours away, depending on entrance point
Kayak Rentals: Urban Ocean SUP, Paddlefit, Ottawa River Canoe Club, Boreal River Adventures, Riverview Mobile Kayak Rental, Ottawa Kayak School, and local beach clubs.
Prices: Starting at $45.00/2 hours + GST (15% tax)
Hours: Varies by company, 11am – 5pm for Urban Ocean SUP
Bonus: Urban Ocean SUP offers kayak lessons and special classes. My favourite is their SUP pup option to bring your dog. I also love their October Halloween-themed witch SUP – where they dress as witches and paddle the Ottawa River.
Can you kayak on the Ottawa River?
Yes! You can kayak at many points along the Ottawa River.
In fact, it’s one of the best places to kayak in Ottawa as it’s easily accessible from downtown, has beach access, offers lovely views of Parliament Hill, and the water is easy to paddle on.
You can kayak, paddleboard, or canoe on the Ottawa River. There are many places to rent kayaks if you don’t have one yourself.
2. Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is a kayaker’s dream come true. Stretching 202km from Kingston to Ottawa, it’s the world’s longest skating rink in winter and a kayaker’s paradise in summer.
There are many kayak rental companies along the canal, so you can easily rent a kayak and spend a day exploring.
The Rideau Canal is perfect for kayakers of all levels.
Beginner kayakers will love the calm waters, while more experienced kayakers can challenge themselves with longer trips and faster currents.
There are also many places to stop along the way, so you can take a break and explore Ottawa or the nearby small towns like Perth and Smith Falls.
You can even take your kayak through 1800s-era locks to switch from the high to the low part of the canal.
This old lock system is kind of like riding a ferris wheel as you slowly rise from the increased water in each section of the locks.
The locks are what first made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
If you’ve been skating on the Rideau in downtown Ottawa, the many stops to get on and off the canal on the ice have boat launches nearby. This is where you can launch your own kayak, canoe, or paddle board.
Distance From Downtown: In downtown Ottawa to Kingston, 3 hours away
Kayak Rentals: Rideau Tours, Le Boat, Urban Ocean, Dow’s Lake Pavillion, Ottawa SUP, Drifters Outdoors Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Prices: Starting at $35 for 3 hours
Hours: Varied by company, 9am to 5pm for Rideau Tours
Can you kayak on the Rideau Canal?
Yes! You can kayak on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa during the spring, summer, and fall months.
However, in winter the canal freezes over for the Rideau Canal Skateway.
In the summer, the Rideau Canal is a lovely place to kayak as you can go through the historic locks and explore more of Ottawa’s waterfront. You can even kayak all the way to Kingston if your arms are up for it!
3. Dow’s Lake
Dow’s Lake is one of my favourite spots for kayaking in Ottawa.
It’s a man-made lake located in the heart of the city and it’s perfect for a summer day kayak trip.
The best part about kayaking on Dow’s Lake is that it’s very easy – which I adore since I have 0 upper body strength.
You can even paddle to the Rideau Canal from here!
Distance From Downtown:
Kayak Rentals: Dow’s Lake Pavillion (also tandem kayaks and paddleboard rentals)
Prices: Starting from $24 for the first hour, then $12 for each additional hour (lifejackets included)
Hours: 9am to 9pm
4. Calabogie Lake
Calabogie Lake is a large lake located just outside of Ottawa in the town of Calabogie. Pair a paddle here with a hike to Eagle’s Nest Lookout!
It’s a popular spot for kayakers, canoeists, and stand up paddle boarders because it has over 30km of shoreline to explore.
The lake is also very pretty with many cottages lining the shore.
In the summer, you can even kayak to one of the many restaurants on the lake for lunch or dinner.
Just be sure to call ahead and make a reservation so they can save you a spot!
Distance From Downtown: 1 hour drive
Kayak Rentals: Calabogie Peaks Resort
Prices: $33 per day per person or $87 for families
Hours: Dawn to dusk
5. Gatineau Park
If you’re looking for a kayaking destination that’s close to Ottawa, Gatineau Park is the perfect spot.
Located just across the river in Quebec, Gatineau Park is home to some of the best kayaking in the area.
This huge park has over 361km of trails to explore, so there’s plenty of opportunity to get off the beaten path and find your own little kayaking paradise.
There are also many lakes and ponds to choose from, so you can pick the perfect spot depending on your skill level.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even kayak over to Luskville Falls!
Just be sure to check the tides before you go so you don’t get stranded on a sandbar.
The best lakes in Gatineau Park for kayaking and canoeing are:
- Meech lake in Chelsea
- Philippe Lake
- Peche Lake
Distance From Downtown: 30 minutes
Kayak Rentals: National Capital Commission at Peche Lake and Philippe Lake
Prices: $23.25 for 1.5 hours, +$5 per additional hour. Daily for $53
Hours: 9am to 6pm. Hours vary by season. Check specific hours here.
🚣 I recommend this kayaking tour of Ottawa
6. Jacques-Cartier Park
Jacques-Cartier Park is located in Gatineau, Quebec – just across the river from Ottawa.
This is a great spot for kayaking because it’s right in the heart of the city, so you can kayak to views of all of the best sights.
You can get the best view of Parliament Hill from the water!
It can get a bit choppy in the summer if there are a lot of motor boats out, but usually, it’s sheltered enough to be beginner to intermediate friendly.
Distance From Downtown: 15 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Escape Rentals
Prices: $21 for 1 hour, and +$11 for each additional hour.
Hours: 11am to 6pm, by appointment only
7. Lac Leamy
Lac Leamy is a gorgeous spot for kayaking, located just outside of Ottawa in Gatineau.
The lake is relatively small and calm, making it perfect for kayakers of all skill levels.
You can rent kayaks at Lac Leamy Beach, or bring your own if you have one.
Either way, you’re sure to have a great time kayaking on this beautiful lake!
Distance From Downtown: 15 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Centre De Plein Air
Prices: $18 per hour. Free with Access Gatineau+ Card
Hours: 10am to 7pm
8. Outaouais
Looking to sea kayak?
Evasion Plein Air is the place to go!
They offer sea kayak rentals and tours in the Outaouais region, which is just outside of Ottawa.
The area is known for its beautiful scenery, so it’s the perfect place to kayak and take in the views.
Their packages go to Meech Lake, Lac Des Plages, and more!
They offer kayak packages for any time of day – including sunset and stargazing packages. The adventures run from 3 to 7 hours long.
Distance From Downtown: Varies by tour
Kayak Rentals: Evasion Plein Air
Prices: Starting at $75 for 3 hours of adventure
Hours: 5am to 11pm
🚣 I recommend this kayaking tour of Ottawa
9. Petrie Island
Petrie Island is a great spot for kayaking, located just east of Ottawa in the Orleans area.
The island has three different beaches to choose from, so you can find the perfect spot to set up your kayak and enjoy the day.
There are also plenty of places to picnic and relax on the beach, so it’s the perfect spot for a day trip.
Kayak rentals are available on-site, or you can bring your own kayak if you have one.
Distance From Downtown: 20 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Petrie Island Marina (Note: the canoe club runs summer camps for kids but does not rent kayaks to individuals)
Prices: Call (613) 841-0778 for accurate prices
Hours: 8am to 8pm
10. Eco-Odyssee Water Maze
The Eco-Odyssey Water Maze is a great place to kayak, located just outside of Ottawa in the town of Carp.
The water maze is a series of interconnected ponds and channels, making it perfect for exploring by kayak.
You can take a day trip to kayak this Ottawa waterway, or visit at twilight. I love their Perseids package to kayak through the marsh under the stars!
Distance From Downtown: 35 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Eco-Odyssee
Prices: Starting at $40/kayak
Hours: 9am to 4pm
11. Britannia Beach
Britannia Beach is a great kayaking spot located in west Ottawa.
The beach has a sheltered bay that makes it perfect for kayaking, and there are also plenty of places to picnic and relax on the shore.
With public changing rooms and even food trucks in the summer, it’s easy to spend a whole day here!
Note: This beach is sandy but it’s recommended that you wear water shoes as in the water there are pebbles and occasionally mussels.
Distance From Downtown: 25 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Riverview Kayak
Prices: $60 for 3 hours
Hours: 10am to 4pm (starting times for bookings)
12. Clayton Lake in Mississippi Mills
Clayton Lake is a great kayaking spot located in Mississippi Mills, just outside of Ottawa near Almonte.
The lake is relatively small and calm, making it perfect for kayakers of all skill levels.
There are also plenty of places to picnic and relax on the shore.
It’s got a lot of wildlife that the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists are amazing at documenting. They’ve spotted a lot of loons on the lake!
Distance From Downtown: 50 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Bring your own kayak and launch it at Clayton Taylor Park
Prices: BYO
Hours: 24/7
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
13. Mississippi River Ontario
The Mississippi River is a great kayaking spot located just outside of Ottawa in the town of Carleton Place.
The river is known for its beautiful scenery, so it’s the perfect place to kayak and take in the views.
The start of the river by Almonte is quite easy, but as you progress, there are significant rapids that make it an excellent spot for white water rafting in Ontario.
To avoid this, simply turn back before the rapids (you’ll notice the current starts getting stronger).
Distance From Downtown: 45 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Ottawa Valley Canoe and Kayak
Prices: Starting at $55 per day (varies by type of kayak. No white water kayaks)
Hours: 10am to 4pm, reservations required
14. Tay River in Perth
The Tay River is a great kayaking spot located in the town of Perth, Ontario.
The calm river is perfect for kayakers of all skill levels, and there are plenty of places to picnic and relax on the shore.
The river is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for some interesting sightings!
After kayaking, have lunch on a patio overlooking the Tay or hike part of the Rideau Trail.
Distance From Downtown: 50 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Perth Outfitters
Prices: Starting at $45/hour
Hours: 9am to 6pm
15. Ottawa Valley
The Ottawa Valley is the part of Ontario along the Ottawa River that is northeast of the city of Ottawa itself.
The Ottawa Valley is a great spot for kayaking, as there are many kayak-friendly waterways to explore.
There are many small towns along this route leading to Renfrew County that you can stop at for a day trip from Ottawa. I take Theo this was weekly for hikes!
Some kayakers even camp overnight in the Ottawa Valley to make the most of their time kayaking in this beautiful part of Ontario!
There are many access points and waterways to explore via kayak or canoe. My favourite are:
- Fitzroy Provincial Park
- Mississippi River
- White Lake Beach
- Robert Simpson Park
- Constance Beach
Distance From Downtown: Varies by location, as far as 2 hours
Kayak Rentals: Ottawa Valley Canoe & Kayak
Prices: Starting at $55 per day (varies by type of kayak. No white water kayaks)
Hours: 10am to 4pm, reservations required
Best Places for Canoeing and Kayaking Near Ottawa
16. Algonquin Park
Algonquin Park is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in Ontario.
The park offers a variety of kayaking experiences, from easy lakeside paddling to more challenging whitewater kayaking.
There are also plenty of places to camp in Algonquin Park, so you can make a weekend of it!
Great places to kayak in the provincial park include:
- Achray
- Golden Lake
- Madawaska River
- Bark Lake
Distance From Downtown: 3-5 hours
Kayak Rentals: Variety of options, but easiest to bring your own
🚣 I recommend this canoe tour of Algonquin Park
17. 1000 Islands and Gananoque
The 1000 Islands region is a kayaker’s paradise! There are so many islands to explore and the Gananoque Boat Line offers kayak rentals and tours.
The boat line also offers a variety of other activities, including sightseeing cruises and lunch/dinner cruises.
It’s a great summer or fall kayaking spot to see the foliage and explore the islands.
If you don’t feel like camping, stay overnight in Kingston.
Distance From Downtown: 2.5 hours
Kayak Rentals: 1000 Islands Kayaking
Prices: Starts at $55 for half a day, $65 for a full day
Hours: 9am to 5pm
18. Ragged Falls Provincial Park
Looking for a waterfall view?
Ragged Falls Provincial Park is a great kayaking spot for those who want to see some waterfalls!
The park is located on Oxtongue River in Algonquin and there are several falls to explore thanks to the rapids that give the park its name.
You can also portage around the falls if you want to avoid them altogether.
The park is a great place to kayak in the spring or early summer when the water levels are higher.
Distance From Downtown: 3 hours and 45 minutes
Kayak Rentals: Bring your own
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
19. Round Lake in Bonnechere Provincial Park
Round Lake in Bonnechere Provincial Park is a great kayaking spot for those who want to explore a larger body of water.
The lake is 8km long and there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery or have a picnic lunch.
Keep your eyes peeled for beavers, as they are often seen along the shoreline!
There are also several campgrounds in the provincial park if you want to make a weekend of it.
Distance From Downtown: 3.5 hours
Kayak Rentals: Bring your own
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
9 Tips for Kayaking in Ottawa
- Wear sunscreen and a hat, even on cloudy days! The reflection off the water can be intense.
- Pack insect repellent, especially if you’re kayaking in the spring or summer. Nothing ruin’s a good paddle quite like being eaten alive by mosquitoes!
- Bring plenty of snacks and drinks to stay hydrated.
- Floatation devices (aka. lifejackets) are legally required to be worn in Ontario. You can’t just have them in the kayak. They must be on your person.
- If you’re kayaking on a lake, be aware of wind conditions. Wind can pick up quickly and create waves that make kayaking difficult (and dangerous).
- If you’re kayaking on a river, be aware of the current. Some sections of the river can have a strong current that can sweep you downstream if you’re not careful.
- Whitewater kayaking requires a specific kind of kayak. If you are renting a kayak and it is not called a white water kayak, don’t take it on the rapids. You’ll end up paying a hefty fee to get it fixed – and you’ll likely need adventure sports travel insurance to afford your own medical bills!
- Watch out for wildlife. This is their home, not yours. Be respectful and give them space.
- Pack out what you pack in. Leave no trace!
🚣 I recommend this kayaking tour of Ottawa
Best Inflatable Kayak for Ottawa Paddling
If you’re looking for the best kayak for Ottawa paddling, we recommend the Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak.
The kayak has enough room for two people, so it’s great for couples, or people like me who treat their dog like an extra person (I put two towels under him to avoid punctures).
It also comes with two aluminum paddles and a foot pump, so you can inflate it quickly and easily.
The kayak has a weight capacity of 400 lbs, so it can accommodate two people and some gear easily.
And at just under $120, it’s a great value for the price!
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
What to Bring Kayaking
- Kayak
- Paddle
- Life jacket
- Bilge pump (to get water out of your kayak if it starts to fill up)
- Dry bag (to keep your things dry)
- First-aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof outer layer, like a shell
- Plenty of snacks and drinks
- Waterproof camera
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
Kayaking Safety
Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s important to be safe. Here are a few kayaking safety tips:
- Wear a life jacket at all times. It is the law in Ontario!
- Avoid paddling alone. Bring a friend or join a group tour. (That saved my sisters when their canoe got pushed down current and they got stranded on a beach as kids.)
- Be aware of your surroundings and the conditions. Know your abilities and limitations.
- Don’t kayak under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Bring a cell phone and/or satellite phone in case of an emergency.
- Pack a first-aid kit, including supplies for insect bites, blisters, and minor cuts.
- You will get tired. Don’t paddle to your limit and then need to turn around.
- Watch out for boats – especially motorboats and jet skis. They aren’t always keeping a watchful eye. (That’s why it’s important for kayaks to be bright colours to catch their attention.)
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
Do you have to wear a life jacket in a kayak in Ontario?
Yes, it is Ontario law that anyone kayaking or canoeing have a life jacket on board. In most cases, you are required to be wearing said life jacket at all times, especially if you are near rapids or motorized boats. This must be a Canadian-approved life jacket and not just an inflatable personal flotation device.
Do you need a permit to kayak in Ontario?
No, you do not need a permit or a license to kayak in Ontario.
You only need a boater’s license if you are operating a motorized boat. Since kayaks are self-propelled (aka. you paddle them to move them), they do not fall under the Ontario law requiring a license.
This means that you can operate a kayak at any age in Ontario.
Can you drink on a kayak in Ontario?
It is illegal to have open containers in public spaces in Ontario. As such, it’s also illegal to drink while kayaking in Ontario.
Much like operating any watercraft with a motor, it is also illegal to operate a kayak with an open container aboard.
Wrap Up: Best Kayaking in Ottawa
Ottawa has some of the best kayaking in Ontario!
With so many great kayaking spots, it’s easy to find a place to paddle that suits your level of experience and interests.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing paddle on a lake or an adventurous trip down a river, Ottawa has something for everyone.
Just be sure to follow kayaking safety guidelines and you’re sure to have a great time!
What’s your favourite kayaking spot in Ottawa? Let me know by emailing me!
🚣 I recommend this kayaking tour of Ottawa
Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
