2013 Visitor's Guide

Paddling PLEASURES A coastal cruise atop a stand-up paddleboard isn’t exactly like walking on water — but it comes wonderfully close. The sport of stand-up paddleboarding has officially arrived in Maine, giving paddlers the chance to stroll the ocean standing up. Photo: Dustin Turin

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Paddleboarding originated in Hawaii several decades ago, and here in Maine it has become increasingly popular with outdoor adventurers who appreciate the unique opportunity to tour local rivers, lakes, and harbors with the water just under their feet. Paddleboards can cruise in shallow waters or be paddled right up to an area beach – places a boat simply can’t go. It's a leisurely way to take to Maine's scenic waterways. Paddle the mellow Audubon preserve in Scarborough and count shorebirds along the way, or take to the Atlantic and keep your eyes peeled for curious seals. A paddleboard looks much like an oversized sur-oard, and the longer, wider dimensions give it stand-on stability. They can tour flat water just like a kayak, can catch waves like a sur-oard, and can replace the canoe for avid fishermen. Even for first-timers,

stand-up paddleboarding is incredibly accessible. A little bit of balance is all that’s needed, and new paddleboarders might be surprised by how quickly they pick it up. SOPOSUP, a dedicated paddleboard shop in South Portland, offers one-hour lessons throughout the summer. They also have paddleboard yoga classes and “paddlebirding” – bird watching from a paddleboard. Lessons often take place in Cape Elizabeth’s scenic Kettle Cove, where the rocky coastline serves as a backdrop and a handful of moored fish- ing boats keep a watchful eye. And if balance should momentarily escape you, enjoy a refreshing splash into water. That's half the fun. There’s also plenty of opportunity to let your inner explorer lead the way. Maine Island Kayak Company offers full-day and half-day guided kayak tours in and around the nooks and crannies of

Casco Bay’s many islands. Novice and experienced paddlers can investigate the craggy shoreline, Civil War-era forts, and hidden beaches, or get an ecological education on Maine’s amazing geologi- cal history. And along the way – perhaps after you’ve surveyed a lighthouse or climbed the ramparts of Fort Gorges, accessible only by private vessel – you’ll find yourself hypnotized by the rhythmic plunge of your paddle and by the sound of the Atlantic lapping at your boat.

LOCAL TIP You can sail, surf, and paddle throughout Casco Bay and the Lakes Region but don’t miss the exciting

whitewater rafting on Maine’s wild rivers or a carefree float trip below the rapids.

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