Paddle Board or Kayak Micro Adventure!

🚣‍♂️ Sunset Paddling in Choctawhatchee Bay

There’s something special about getting on the water without an engine. No roar of a motor, no need for fuel — just you, your paddle, and the calm stretch of bay in front of you. For locals around the Emerald Coast, paddleboarding and kayaking are some of the easiest micro-adventures you can take, and one of my favorites is chasing the sunset in Choctawhatchee Bay.

Why It’s Worth Doing

The bay is usually calm in the evenings, and when the wind dies down the surface turns into a glass mirror. Pelicans dive, mullet jump, and the colors in the sky shift from orange to purple before fading into night. It’s the kind of experience that slows you down and reminds you why we live by the water in the first place.

What You’ll Need

• A kayak or paddleboard (rentals are easy to find in Destin and Fort Walton)

• Life jacket (safety first)

• Headlamp or flashlight if you plan to stay past dusk

• Camera or phone — you’ll want to capture the view

Best Time to Go

Late spring through early fall gives you the warmest evenings, but even cooler months can be rewarding with fewer boats around. Aim to hit the water about 45 minutes before sunset to catch the full show.

Tips From the Water

• Lots of local public launch access to launch.

• Stay close to shore if you’re new — the bay is wide and easy to underestimate.

• Bring a small dry bag with water and snacks; paddling always works up an appetite.

• Keep an eye out for dolphins. They love the bay and often cruise by in small pods.

Final Thought

You don’t need a whole day, a big boat, or even a fishing rod to have an adventure. A paddleboard or kayak can give you just as much freedom — and sometimes even more peace. Next time the sun starts dropping and the sky begins to glow, grab your paddle and get out there.