easy
1.5 hours
Suitable for beginners and those in average physical condition, no prior kayaking experience required.
Discover the beauty of Norfolk’s Lafayette River on a 90-minute guided kayak tour. Spot dolphins, bald eagles, and learn about local restoration with Norfolk Kayak Rentals.
1 Hour & 30 Minutes • All Ages
Embark on a 90-minute guided kayak adventure along the Lafayette River, where you'll discover its vibrant ecosystems and marine wildlife. Learn about restoration efforts and witness the beauty of nature, with chances to spot dolphins and bald eagles. Your participation supports the Elizabeth River Project's vital conservation work.
1 Hour & 30 Minutes
Norfolk Kayak Rentals brings the Lafayette River's first Nature & Eco tour.
Join us as we explore the Lafayette River on our Nature & Eco Tour. On this tour we discuss the river’s ecosystems, marine wildlife, issues facing the river, explore restoration efforts currently underway, and how we can help. If you’re lucky, we may see a pod of dolphins chasing fish or catch a bald eagle flying high above. This tour runs for 90 minutes and will cover approximately 2.5-3 miles of kayaking at a leisurely pace. All experience levels are welcome; however, please be prepared to paddle the majority of the time on the water.
Norfolk Kayak Rentals is excited to announce proceeds from all future Nature & Eco Tours will be benefiting the Elizabeth River Project for the rest of the 2023 season.
The non-profit Elizabeth River Project has worked since 1993 to restore the environmental health of the urban Elizabeth River, once presumed dead. Today most major industries on the port river along with the cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach and tens of thousands of school children and residents collaborate with Elizabeth River Project in the success story that is the river’s revival. Pelicans, eagles, river otters, seahorses and dolphins are now a common site.
Along with Paradise Creek Nature Park, signature programs of the Elizabeth River Project include the Dominion Energy Learning Barge, River Star Homes, River Star Businesses and the Youth Resilience Expo. Landmark projects include restoring oyster habitat in the Lafayette and Eastern branches and cleaning up some of the world’s highest levels of contamination at Money Point in Chesapeake, resulting in a six-fold reduction in fish cancer. Do something beautiful. Join us today: ElizabethRiver.org.
Opt for moisture-wicking, quick-dry apparel to stay comfortable on the water.
Protect your skin with environmentally-friendly sunscreen to preserve local wildlife.
Keep your phone safe and dry for emergency use or photos.
Give yourself time for check-in and equipment fitting before your tour starts.
The Lafayette River played a key role in Norfolk’s maritime history and has been a focus for ecological restoration since the late 20th century.
Your tour supports the Elizabeth River Project, which restores water quality and habitats critical for sustaining local marine life.
Mandatory safety gear included or brought for every paddler.
Stay hydrated throughout your kayak tour.
Helps protect your face and neck from strong sun.
summer specific
Ideal for staying dry during occasional spring showers.
spring specific