Start with the basics
Paddling is easier when you build skills in a sensible order. This guide focuses on kayaking, and it covers what to practice first, in calm water close to shore. (Searches for “paddling for beginners” sometimes turn up pickleball or stand-up paddleboarding too. This article is about kayak paddling only.)
Get comfortable in the boat
Sit upright with your back against the seat, your knees slightly bent and your feet on the footrests. Adjust the seat and footrests so you feel supported, not cramped. If you are new to the boat, spend a few minutes just sitting and shifting your weight gently from side to side to feel how it tips.
Hold the paddle correctly
Check the blade orientation and hand spacing before you start. Our guide to the proper way to hold a kayak paddle covers this in detail. The main points are the scooped face toward you, hands about shoulder-width or a bit wider, and a relaxed grip.
Getting in and out
Whether you launch from a beach or a dock, keep the boat steady and parallel to the edge and keep your weight low. From a dock, sit on the edge, place your feet in the boat, hold the dock and lower yourself in. A fuller walkthrough is in how to launch a kayak from a dock.
The strokes to practice first
Paddling forward
Rotate your torso, plant the blade near your feet and pull it back alongside the boat by unwinding your torso, then lift it near your hip. Alternate sides.
Going straight
New paddlers often zigzag. Common causes are uneven strokes, looking down at the bow and relying on arms only. Look at a distant point, keep strokes similar on both sides and keep your torso rotating. Some kayaks have a skeg or rudder to help with tracking in wind (see skeg vs rudder).
Turning
Use sweep strokes. A sweep on one side turns the boat away from that side. A few strokes on alternating sides turn the boat on the spot.
Stopping and going backward
Use the reverse stroke, pushing the blade forward in the water near your hip.
Moving sideways
Use the draw stroke, which is helpful at docks.
All of these are explained further in kayak strokes explained.
Paddling a tandem kayak
In a tandem kayak, the person in front typically sets the pace and the rear paddler matches it. Talk before you start, agree on who steers, and keep your strokes in time so your paddles do not clash.
What if you fall in?
Falling in is common for beginners. Stay calm, keep hold of the boat if you can and follow the technique taught by your instructor or rental shop. Re-entering a kayak in deep water takes practice, so try it in shallow, warm conditions with a helper first. Lessons can make this much less intimidating; see kayak lessons for beginners.
Gear to start with
You do not need much (see what to bring kayaking): a kayak suited to your water, a paddle, a life jacket, clothing for the weather and the water temperature and a whistle. Many beginners rent first.
Keep it safe
- Wear your life jacket.
- Choose calm, protected water and good weather.
- Tell someone your plan.
- Avoid paddling beyond your ability, and stay near shore.
- Be careful in cold water, which can reduce your ability to swim and think clearly even on a warm day. See what to wear kayaking in 60 degree weather.
Is it hard?
Most people find the basics approachable. A good approach is to paddle often for short sessions and add skills gradually. When you are ready for more, the essential kayaking skills guide shows what comes next, and kayaking for the first time can help you plan an easy first outing.