Kayaks, Rowboats, and More in Nassau County

At Atlantic Outfitters in Port Washington, kids will find paddleboard, rowboat, kayak and canoe rentals, and more. Photo courtesy of Atlantic Outfitters

Atlantic Outfitters — Port Washington
Atlantic offers paddleboard, rowboat, and kayak rentals, as well as fishing equipment rentals, lessons, tours, and parties. Set sail on Manhasset Bay to catch some nautical North Shore views. Bonus: Inside the shared space, Wharf Sports, you can enjoy indoor golf and other sports simulators.

Empire Kayaks — Island Park
This waterfront store sits alongside Barnums Channel and offers kayaks and equipment, as well as clinics, boat, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals, and guided bay tours. It also hosts marsh explorations, kayak clinics, and more. Launch right into Middle Bay and the surrounding wetlands for an eco-friendly experience while exercising. It also has kayaks outfitted for fishing, as well as a Hobie pedal drive kayak. 

Levy Preserve — Merrick
Before heading to the hill at Levy Preserve, check out the kayak launch into the original Meadow Brook. Kayaking is offered at Levy Park in June, July, and August. The brook is tidal, so tours are offered based on the high-tide time for each day. Visitors can also bring their own kayaks. The site includes three miles of hiking and jogging trails with 18 exercise stations along the way. The 52-acre facility also features a 500-foot fishing pier with sweeping views of Merrick Bay all the way to the Jones Beach tower. No kidding .. there are also Nigerian dwarf goats that roam the property as nature's lawnmowers, and Guinea fowl who assist with the tick population.

Kayaks, Rowboats, and More in Suffolk County

Belmont Lake State Park — North Babylon
Chosen by Robert Moses to be the regional headquarters of all state parks on Long Island, 42-acre Belmont Lake offers pedal boat, rowboat and kayak rentals from the boat dock from May through early October. You can also bring your own kayak. The park grounds are ideal for picnicking, playground play, hiking, biking, fishing, and more. Bonus: Leashed dogs are allowed.

Blydenburgh County Park — Smithtown
This 627-acre park features Stump Pond, which has been called one of the most picturesque on Long Island. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, visitors can rent a rowboat to enjoy the scenery or fish for pumpkinseed, sunfish, largemouth bass, perch, and bluegill. Other activities include hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, camping, birdwatching, and fishing. Note: There are two entrances to the park, one off of Veterans Highway and the other off of New Mill Road.

Carmans River Canoe & Kayak II — Brookhaven
Rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. Located directly on the Carmen's River, which winds its way through the scenic Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, it's a beautiful spot for kayaking on calm river water. Head out alone or on a guided river tour. They also offer a summer adventure camp for kids ages 6 to 16.

Long Island Kayak Rentals — Riverhead
Spend a few hours or an entire day exploring the Peconic River area. This East End spot features in-season canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board, fishing pole, electric tour board, and bicycle rentals. Seasonal guided tours also offered. While children must be accompanied by an adult, most tours are suitable for any level of experience. It even offers a moonlight tour with glow lights for under your SUP/kayak/canoe.

Stony Brook Harbor Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals — Stony Brook
Located directly across from the Three Village Inn, this company offers kayak and paddleboard rentals for a enjoyable day on the North Shore's Stony Brook Harbor. Open May through November, this activity spans a few Long Island seasons.

Radio-Controlled Boats and Model Boats on Long Island

Christopher Morley Park  —  Roslyn
Located in northern Nassau County, this near 100-acre park provides a range of recreational activities, including hiking trails. Follow the signs for the boat basin to challenge your navigation skills. From tennis to handball, swimming and ice skating, playgrounds and picnicking, this park is full of year-round family fun. Bonus: Find the Knothole, a pine cabin in the park that once belonged to prolific writer Christopher Morley.

RELATED: Long Island State Parks Worth a Visit

Enjoy "sailing" with your fellow radio-controlled yachtsmen at the Eisenhower Park Model Yacht Club. Photo courtesy of the club

Eisenhower Park — East Meadow
Merrick and Stewart Avenues
The Eisenhower Park Model Yacht Club sails on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings at 10am from March until the end of June. All are invited to watch, or build your own and hit the pond. There's also indoor swimming, ice skating, an outdoor sprinkler park, as well as fitness trails, a bike riding area, fields, picnicking, and more. One of the most unique playgrounds can be found at Field 4.

Hempstead Lake State Park — West Hempstead
Eagle Avenue
At North Pond, look for the North American Model Boat Association's District 1 building, where team members race their radio-controlled boats. This group gathers sporadically throughout the year. Note: A state permit is required to race radio-controlled boats in the park.