Hawkesbury River Kayaking with Sydney Kayak
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Recommended for anyone with decent stamina and ability to paddle for about 2.5 hours with breaks; suitable for ages 8 and up.
Overview
Paddle the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Kayak on a 3.5-hour journey through bushland, Aboriginal rock art, and towering sandstone cliffs. Stop to swim and enjoy a gourmet picnic at a sandy beach before tracing your route back past ocean views.
Cowan Creek Paddle
Ages 8+ • 3.5 Hours • See Aboriginal Rock Art • Paddle the Hawkesbury River
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 3.5-hour kayaking adventure along the Hawkesbury River, where stunning bushland, Aboriginal rock art, and majestic sandstone cliffs await. Enjoy a gourmet picnic on a sandy beach, take a refreshing swim, and soak in breathtaking views of Pittwater and the ocean on your return journey.
Intermediate paddle passing Aboriginal rock art, sandstone & bushland • Spectacular Bush Scenery!
Duration
3.5 Hours - 2.5 Hours Paddling
About
Leaving from the Parsley Bay Boat Ramp at Brooklyn, we paddle down the Hawkesbury River. Passing beautiful bush, Aboriginal rock art and spectacular sandstone cliffs, this paddle has spectacular scenery and views. We stop for a stretch (and a swim if you are up for it) on Eleanor Beach. Just to make sure that this is not becoming a hectic exercise, we stop for lunch at one of the Sandy Beaches in Cowan Creek. The lunch that we have to offer, justifies the whole kayaking experience.
After lunch, we will continue the Paddle and retrace our path back to Brooklyn. On the return paddle, we look at a spectacular view down Pittwater, past Lion Island, and out to the Ocean.
What is Included:
- Gourmet picnic
- A comfortable sit inside Kayak
- Paddle
- PFD (life jacket)
- Spray deck
- Paddling instruction
- Sunscreen
More Information
- Suitable for people 8 years and older of moderate fitness. As the Kayaks are the much more comfortable seat inside type, you will need to be less than 2M tall and able to fit in a 40cm wide seat.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Children (8 to 14) must be accompanied by an adult and minimum age is 8 yrs old. Each child or teen will need (1) adult each per double kayak.
- Bring plenty of water, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable quick-drying clothes (no cotton) suitable for the weather and a change of clothes for the trip home.
- Depending on the season, dress for both sun protection and warmth knowing all attire can get wet.
- Suitable footwear is recommended.
Adventure Tips
Bring plenty of water
Hydration is essential on this mid-length paddle, so pack enough water to stay refreshed throughout.
Wear quick-drying clothes
Choose lightweight, synthetic fabrics to stay comfortable as you may get splashed or take a swim.
Use sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses; the open river stretches offer little shade midday.
Prepare for moderate fitness level
This paddle is suitable for most with basic stamina, but some previous paddling experience helps maximize enjoyment.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Water dragons basking on rocks
- Varied birdlife including kingfishers and sea eagles
History
The Hawkesbury River holds long-standing cultural significance to local Aboriginal peoples, with rock art reflecting thousands of years of history.
Conservation
Sydney Kayak emphasizes minimal impact practices to preserve native bushland and wildlife habitats along the river corridor.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-drying clothing
Helps keep you comfortable when wet, whether from river spray or swimming.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Wide-brim hat
Provides crucial protection against sun exposure during extended river time.
summer|spring|fall specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you well hydrated on the river, a must for any paddle trip.
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects skin from intense UV rays reflected off the water surface.
spring|summer|fall specific