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While waterfront views are stunning from terra firma, those who canoe and kayak around Jamaica Bay know that the sights are even more beautiful out on the water. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn your way around the bay or an expert in search of a boating challenge, Jamaica Bay is full of places to paddle the day away. Marine Park surrounds Jamaica Bay's westernmost inlet and features the Salt Marsh Nature Center, a prime site for spotting water birds. Fresh Creek Nature Preserve's 42 acres of salt marsh offer a quiet spot to discover the plants, butterflies, birds and fish that call the area home. And Paerdegat Basin Park provides boaters with a channel that measures over a mile and leads into the Bergen Beach section of Jamaica Bay. For more information, visit nps.gov.

Looking for a little guidance on the water? Check out these summertime boating opportunities for even more things to do:

May 30–September 1
Open Paddle Program at Sebago Canoe Club
Venture out on a free trip around the bay. This summer's schedule also features guest lecturers who educate participants about environmental issues. For more information, visit sebagocanoeclub.org. 

June 2 and July 8
Intermediate Canoeing at Marine Park
More seasoned paddlers ages 8 or older can improve their skills during a late-morning/early-afternoon session. For more information, call 718-421-2021 or visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

July 5 and 19; August 2 and 16
Let's Go Kayaking at Canarsie Pier
Spend a warm summer evening on the water. Meet at Canarsie Pier at 5pm.

July 21 and August 4
Basic Canoeing at Bayswater Park (July 21) and Fresh Creek Park (August 4)
There's no experience necessary for these simple starter lessons. For more information, call 718-846-2731 or visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

July 27 and August 10
Let's Go Sailing at Gateway Marina
From 9am to noon, the Brooklyn marina invites guests on a waterfront outing.