Getting out on the water with a paddle is, throughout the summer as well as the shoulder seasons, one of the most enjoyable ways to take in the breathtaking scenery along the Southern Oregon Coast. In addition to its breathtaking shoreline, the area is home to more than 140 miles of natural rivers, including Umpqua, Chetco, Rogue, and Coquille rivers. You don't need to bring your raft, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. You will have no trouble booking guided tours with locals who are more than happy to divulge the secrets and enigmas of the South Coast to you.

Always keep in mind that there are other people around who want to enjoy the water just as much as you do. This involves not leaving any rubbish behind and always trying to leave the location in better condition than when you discovered it. Even while your animal pals may like the water just as much as you do, you should probably leave them and any drugs or alcohol at home.

It is important to remember a few safety precautions when you are around water. If you plan to bring children with you, always keep a close eye on them, and don't forget to wear a life jacket that fits you correctly. This is a must for children under 12 years old and strongly advised for people of all ages. If you find yourself abruptly submerging into cold water, having something on you might very well save your life. To prevent muscular cramping, get out of the water and stretch, and warm up often. If you don't have your life jacket, free loaner stations are available at several lakes. Be wary of shifting winds and vessels that might generate significant waves or wakes after you've reached the sea.

Ocean Kayaking and SUP

South Coast Tours allows customers to go on various kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding excursions from Coos Bay, Port Orford, and Brookings. Paddling trips may be combined with other activities, such as snorkeling or fishing, on some of these itineraries. Consider paddling the 22 miles from Gold Beach to Whaleshead Beach over what is known as the "Banana Belt" for two days if you are ready for an exciting challenge (an area of milder temperatures). The path takes you through the Arches region, which is close to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and has a wide variety of natural arches, and coves to discover. Kayakers from all over the globe tackle this section because of its challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery.

River Rafting, Kayaking, and SUP

The southern region of Oregon is home to some of the greatest whitewater rafting the state has to offer. And kayaking is also possible in the same locations where whitewater rafting is possible. All these choices are available to guests on half-, full-, and multiday tours offered by the outfitters listed below. If paddling through whitewater rapids isn't your thing, you may take things easy with a paddle designed for flat water instead.

Rogue River

South Coast Tours offers a relaxing kayak and stand-up paddleboard trip on the Rogue River that is 4 miles long and lasts 1.5 hours. The trips begin at the Quosatana Campsite, which is around 15 miles from Gold Beach, and continue until mid-October. Foster Bar Campsite is the starting point for another kind of trip provided by South Coast Tours called the 5-mile, 2-hour kayak, and SUP tour.

Chetco River

Kayaking down the Wild and Scenic Chetco River is not for the faint of heart, but it will not let you down if you are searching for an extreme experience. The Lower Gorges of the Chetco and the Upper Chetco River are both part of the multi-day guided trips that Northwest Rafting Company offers. The Upper Chetco River tour starts with a 10-mile trek through the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. The upper half of the river remains almost undisturbed and is characterized by green gorges, boulder-congested rapids, and green pools of crystal-clear water; the bottom portion of the river changes into a large river channel through lush woods on its approach to the Pacific Ocean. The adventures begin in Grants Pass and continue until the end of September.

You also have the option to do flat-water kayaking with South Coast Tours from May until about halfway through October on the estuary of the Chetco River near Brookings. Watch for kingfishers, pelicans, and seals as you go through this area.

Coquille River

Also, if you're interested in flat-water kayaking, the Coquille River near Bandon is an excellent place. An estuary tour that goes through the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is one of the things South Coast Tours offers. See the historical high docks, shipwrecks, seals, shorebirds, and migrating birds. Throughout May until the middle of October, tours are available.