Join the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s unique Glow-in-the-Dark Paddle on Onset Bay, where kayaks and paddleboards come alive with light for a magical night on the water. Perfect for families and all skill levels, this event turns a peaceful bay into an illuminated adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Basic paddling skills and moderate comfort on calm water are recommended, suitable for beginners and families.
Wildlife
History
Buzzards Bay has a long maritime heritage, once vital for fishing and shipbuilding, which is honored in current conservation efforts.
Conservation
Buzzards Bay Coalition actively works to reduce pollution and restore habitats to maintain water quality and biodiversity in the bay.
Buzzards Bay Coalition
Join the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s unique Glow-in-the-Dark Paddle on Onset Bay, where kayaks and paddleboards come alive with light for a magical night on the water. Perfect for families and all skill levels, this event turns a peaceful bay into an illuminated adventure.
Buzzards Bay Coalition offers a catalogue of outdoor education, recreation, and youth programming centered on bays, wetlands, woodlands, and rivers. Programs include summer day camps, afterschool clubs, guided hikes, wildlife explorations, paddling and sailing clubs, and equipment rentals. Key sites named in programming include The Sawmill, Hawes Family Learning Center, Onset Bay, Tinkhamtown Woodlands, Horseshoe Mill, The Bogs, West Falmouth Harbor, Beebe Woods, and the Weweantic River.
Youth offerings span ages 2–13 with options from the Itty‑Bitty Bay Adventure for ages 2–6, Freshwater Fishing (ages 4–7), to the Bay Explorers Day Camp for ages 8–13. The Bay Explorers Day Camp features kayaking, sailing, beach exploration, experienced instructors, and meals provided. Afterschool programs include boating and waterfront skills, boatbuilding, and fall youth sailing clubs.
Adult and community options include adult sailing and paddling clubs, specialty workshops such as a nature photography session with expert Fran Grenon, seasonal paddles including glow‑in‑the‑dark and Halloween events, and guided kayak tours at West Falmouth Harbor. Rentals such as paddleboards are supplied with lifejackets and paddles. Family‑friendly events include amphibian and fungi walks, OutHounds dog hikes at The Bogs, hiking challenges, and shellfishing experiences.
The Buzzards Bay Coalition’s schedule blends skill‑building, environmental exploration, and recreation across land and water. Program descriptions note provided gear and instructor‑led formats where applicable, helping participants choose age‑appropriate activities and prepare for outdoor experiences. Special events listed include Life‑Saving Station Celebration, BirthBay Parties, BaysGiving shellfishing and quahog boil, the Halloween Paddle Parade, and seasonal Sawmill programs. Registration is required where noted.
Tours Offered
28
Diverse land & water programs
Ages Served
Ages 2–13
Programs for children and teens
Expert Instructors
Named experts
Fran Grenon & experienced staff
On‑Water Activities
Kayak, Sail, Paddle, Shellfish
Rentals, clubs, and tours available
Search camps, workshops, paddles, hikes, and rentals — view program details and register for listed experiences.
Wear Your PFD at All Times
Personal flotation devices are required for every paddler to ensure safety during this nighttime event.
Secure Your Glow Decorations
Make sure all glow sticks, LED lights, and decorations are firmly attached to your craft to avoid losing them in the water.
Register Early for Equipment
Space is limited for borrowing kayaks and paddleboards from the Onset Bay Center, so pre-registration is strongly recommended.
Bring Your Own Light Source
While you can decorate, it’s smart to bring a small waterproof flashlight or headlamp for personal safety and navigation on shore.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Mandatory for safety during night paddling.
Waterproof Headlamp or Flashlight
Helps with visibility on shore and during setup before launch.
Waterproof Glow Decorations
Brighten your kayak or board, making your craft visible and festive.
Light, Layered Clothing
Allows for comfort as temperatures can drop after sunset.
fall|spring|summer