PaddleNews: Dos and Don’ts When Paddling Around Coral Reefs

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PaddleNews

January 21, 2026

Dos and Don’ts When Paddling Around Coral Reefs

Whenever paddling near a coral reef, remember to keep your distance from the coral, check the tides, and be aware of potential currents. Bring snorkel gear and remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen if you plan on jumping in the water. Always anchor away from the reef, and never paddle over a shallow reef. Avoid paddling on windy days, and always bring at least one buddy along for the adventure.

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Photo of the week

Catherine Gruber - Clubbs Creek, Brunswick, GA

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Five Winter Adventures Beyond The Ski Hill In Northern Ontario

When the lift lines are long or the corduroy is concrete, winter isn’t a season to skip. Northern Ontario is stacked with low-stress, high-reward days that don’t need a lift ticket. Here are five ways to keep the stoke alive without stepping into a gondola queue.

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Message Board of the Week

Winter paddling in NE FL

3 of the last 5 pre-dawn paddling days have been in the 30’s.

I can get used to the cool temps, but combined with the very low tides, from where I put in/take out, it makes for a very difficult time.

Putting in, I carry out to where I start to sink too much, then put down kayak, lean on kayak, and go out a few more feet. I use a ‘dish brush’ to clean off the boots, then bring in feet, sprayskirt, go on paddle.

On getting out (after paddle), I sink to just about the tops of the NRS Boundary Boots (just below the knee), THEN have to lift the kayak, very carefully, slowly. Then have to lift a foot out of the ‘quicksand’ and place it to the next step location. Very slow process for first few yards, then gets ok.

Looking forward to the next few days with higher tides (and temps).

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