How To Ocean Kayak

If you enjoy kayaking and are going on vacation to the coast, you may be wondering how to ocean kayak. Ocean kayaking is actually a very easy activity, even if you have never paddled before. If you want to go paddling on the ocean, consider a sit-on-top kayak. The sit-on-top kayak is the perfect type of kayak for ocean kayaking and is great for beginners and experts alike.

To ocean kayak, you will need:

• A kayak
• A paddle and leash
• A personal flotation device (PFD)

1. Set up your equipment. You need to get your equipment in order before you try to ocean kayak. If you have a kayak seat, you will need to clip your seat to the little eyelets located around the kayak. Take your paddle and attach the leash to the paddle (usually via a strap) and clip the other end of the leash to one of the eyelets on your kayak. Put on your personal flotation device. Stow any loose gear in the cargo hold unless you don't mind it getting wet and salty.
2. Launch your kayak. Drag your kayak to the edge of the water and wait for a break in the waves. Push your kayak into the water so that it's floating and jump into the kayak and seat yourself. Quickly start paddling before any waves come to upset your kayak on the beach.
3. Paddle forward. Hold your paddle so that your hands are shoulder-width apart. Your elbows should be bent to almost a 90-degree angle. Place the right end of the paddle in the water, extending your right arm out in front so that the paddle is going into the water close to where your toes are. Pull the blade back through the water until it is by your side. As soon as the blade is at your side, lift it out of the water while at the same time repeating the process on the left side of the kayak.
4. Paddle backwards. While looking over your shoulder to make sure you don't hit anyone, bring the right end of the blade back as far behind you as you can, by rotating your shoulders back. Next, push the blade forward through the water until the blade reaches your feet. Your right arm should be fully extended and your left arm should be bent. Repeat on the left side.
5. Landing your kayak. When you are done ocean kayaking, slowly approach the area where you intend to land your kayak, checking for rocks or any other kinds of obstructions. Keep an eye out for waves that could push you forward, causing you to crash on the beach. When it seems calm and clear, paddle forward until the kayak is about ankle-deep in water. Hop out of the kayak and drag the kayak onto the beach.