U.S. kayaking trends: top regions & preferences

Kayaking is not just a sport, it's a way to connect with nature, a form of exercise, and for many – like us! – it’s a passion.

Across the United States, the popularity of kayaking varies by region, reflecting the diverse landscapes and waterways that define this vast country. We’ve talked about these stats before, but today we want to utilize the power of Google Trends reporting and analyze regional kayaking interests.

How does your region stack up against the States in kayaking popularity? Let’s find out…

Kayaking hot spots in the U.S.A.

Check out this Google Trends data for the search topic “kayaking” over the last 12 months in the United States of America… The great thing about this intel is that it’s live and will keep updating over time!

The pull of the Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest, encompassing states like Washington and Oregon, stands out as a kayaking mecca – in fact, if you’re not familiar with us at Flatwater Kayak Club, this is our home and where we focus our kayaking routes and stories.

With its sprawling coastlines, majestic rivers, and serene lakes, it's no wonder kayaking enthusiasts flock here to the PNW (have we mentioned the mountains, rainbows, wildlife, and waterfalls?).

The allure of the Northeast

The Northeast, with its rich history and diverse waterways, from the tranquil lakes of the Adirondacks to the rugged coastlines of Maine, holds a special place in the heart of many kayakers.

Here, kayaking blends the love for adventure with the appreciation of history, as paddlers navigate waters that meander through some of America's oldest and most charming towns and cities.

The region's seasonal weather patterns make it particularly popular for summer and fall kayaking, when the waterways are framed by lush greenery or vibrant autumn hues… this is definitely the place to kayak for spectacular leaf peeping!

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The Southern charm

Clear bottom kayaking in Florida with my mom a few years ago.

The South, with its warm, sunny climate and vast network of bayous, rivers, and coastal waters, offers a unique kayaking experience that blends sport with exploration of the region's distinctive ecosystems.

Places like Crystal Springs in Florida are hotspots for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure paddlers alike. Kayaking here allows for magical encounters with the region's abundant wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and a great variety of water bird species.

On a recent glass bottom kayaking experience, my mom and I enjoyed a tandem tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking to Shell Key Island. The water was crystal clear, the sun was shining, and we paddled through a mangrove tunnel to the stunning white, sandy beach. We spotted incredible West Florida wildlife too – from upside-down jellyrish, tons of waterbirds, and even an adorable little shark!

The Midwest’s hidden gems

The landlocked Midwest region harbors some of the most beautiful and serene kayaking destinations, especially for lake kayaking fans. The Great Lakes, with their vast expanse and island-dotted horizons, offer an ocean-like kayaking experience, while the region's rivers and lakes, such as those in Michigan and Minnesota (the land of lakes!) are perfect for tranquil paddles through lush landscapes.

The Midwest's friendly kayaking communities and numerous water trails cater to families and beginners, making it an ideal region for those new to the sport. (We were just contacted by a lake-kayaking-couple asking about our Oru kayaks, and we’re thrilled that our flatwater kayaking community has expanded beyond our homebase).

Growing up in Central Ohio, I’m always nostalgic about the beautiful, serene lakes in the Buckeye State…

The West’s diverse landscapes

The Western states offer a dramatic backdrop for kayakers, from the desert reservoirs of Arizona to the alpine lakes of the Sierra Nevada. The variety of landscapes ensures that there’s something for every kayaker, whether you’re seeking the thrill of whitewater rapids or the peace of a mountain lake. The kayaking culture here is as diverse as the geography, with a strong emphasis on adventure and exploration.

As for us? We have kayaking the salt flats in Utah on our minds…

Conclusion

The regional popularity and preferences for kayaking across the United States reflect the country's vast and varied landscapes. As we continue to explore the waters of our beautiful nation, let's do so with respect for the natural beauty and the diverse cultures that make kayaking in the USA truly unparalleled.

Where do you kayak? Tag us in your kayaking adventures on Instagram at #FlatwaterKayakClub – We’d love to see! And check out our full article on Top Kayak Quotes if you’re in need of some social media caption inspiration.

About Flatwater Kayak Club

Flatwater Kayak Club is a leading woman-owned online platform dedicated to supporting beginner and intermediate kayakers in the Pacific Northwest. Our company founder, a former writer for The National Geographic Channel and a current ACA member, guides our mission with her passion for kayaking, nature, and storytelling.