Kayaking & Paddleboarding in Bay of Islands: Waterfall

★★★★★★★★★★ 4.76 (49 reviews) 80% rated it 5 stars

Free cancellationExcellent quality

1/8

Duration2h 30m

GroupUp to 40

Mobile ticketAccepted

Paddle to a waterfall that drops into the sea

Kayak or paddleboard through the Bay of Islands to a waterfall where water meets ocean, guided by a local who knows the mangrove channels and the sea bird colonies nesting overhead. No prior experience is required; a safety vessel stays with the group the whole time, and anyone who needs a rest can sit it out in comfort. Children from age 5 are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

The Experience

You arrive at the launch point and get on the water with a guide who knows where the birds nest and which channels stay calm. The paddle takes you through mangrove forests where you can get close enough to photograph, then out toward the final destination—a waterfall that drops straight into the sea. The whole outing runs about two and a half hours, which means you can fit it into a free afternoon without reshaping the rest of your day.

Kayaking or paddleboarding here is not a race. You move at your own pace, and the guide adjusts the route to what the group wants to see. If someone in your family is less confident on the water, the safety vessel is there—comfortable, always nearby, and ready to offer a rest without anyone having to ask twice. The water stays calm enough that even beginners paddle without strain, and you can bring a small bag with a camera, sunscreen, water and snacks so you're not fumbling for things once you're out there.

Bring a towel and a change of clothes or wear swimwear under what you bring, because the closer you get to the waterfall, the more tempting it is to get wet. A warm jacket matters too—the Bay can be cooler than you expect—and sunscreen is non-negotiable. Three departures run most days at 10am, 1pm and 4pm, though times can shift, so confirm before you book.

What’s included

A local guide leads the paddle; a safety vessel stays with the group at all times for anyone who needs a rest or wants to sit out a section.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Bay of Islands Night Kayaking Ltd

Is this one for you?At two and a half hours, this fits into a free afternoon without eating up the whole day. The safety boat means anyone less confident on the water can rest without slowing the group, so families with mixed paddling abilities can go together without compromise.