• Gateway offers surprising natural diversity, outdoor recreation and historic discoveries within the largest metropolitan area in the U.S.

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    National Recreation Area NY,NJ

Jamaica Bay Kayak Trails

kayaker at Canarsie Pier

NPS photo

Paddler at Canarsie Pier Launch Site

Jamaica Bay Kayak Trail

The kayak launch sites within Jamaica Bay offer opportunities for every level of paddler. Whether you canoe, kayak, or row, you will find launch sites and trips that meet your skill level. Before you launch, please download the Jamaica Bay Kayak Trail Map for important safety and regulatory information.

In order to launch after-hours in Jamaica Bay, or at anytime at kayak launch facilities at Riis Landing and Rockaway Point, you must first obtain a permit at the Floyd Bennett Field Ranger Station. Permits are no longer required, dawn to dusk, at Plumb Beach, Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp, Mill Basin, Canarsie Pier, and the North Channel Bridge. Call (718)338 3799 or e-mail us for more information.

Also available to visitors of Jamaica Bay are a number of boating programs, including kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.

 
Jamaica Bay Kayak Trail Map
Jamaica Bay Kayak Trail Map
NPS photo
  • Sailing and Kayaking Programs at Jamaica Bay Sailing and Kayaking Programs at Jamaica Bay

    Come have fun boating with a National Park Service Ranger. Read More

  • USCG float plan USCG float plan

    File a float plan for a safe trip. Read More

  • Area Tide Charts Area Tide Charts

    Know the tides before you go paddling. Read More

Did You Know?

Women's Army Corps soldiers crossing out the

Did you know that Fort Hancock had an integrated unit in World War II?  The 1225th Army Service Unit had African-American soldiers and in 1943 received a group from the Women's Army Corps. More...