Set out on an overnight paddling trip at Assateague Island with Bayside Outfitters’ kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals. Discover untouched beaches, wildlife, and the island’s iconic wild horses on an adventure you won't forget.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
24 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling skills recommended
Wildlife
History
Assateague Island has been a protected area since 1965, known for its feral horses preserved through local conservation efforts.
Conservation
The business emphasizes sustainable paddling practices to minimize impact on the delicate salt marshes and protect wildlife habitats.
Assateague Outfitters
Set out on an overnight paddling trip at Assateague Island with Bayside Outfitters’ kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals. Discover untouched beaches, wildlife, and the island’s iconic wild horses on an adventure you won't forget.
Assateague Outfitters is an outdoor rental and tour provider based in Berlin, Maryland, serving visitors to Assateague Island National Seashore. The company offers a wide range of watersports rentals—single and tandem kayaks, standup paddleboards (SUPs), and canoes—alongside bicycle rentals available from both the Bayside Stand and the Visitor Center. Rentals span two-hour, full-day, multi-day, and weeklong options, including two-hour watersports and bike rentals, full-day and three-day watersports and bike rentals, three-day and weeklong watersports choices, and overnight 24-hour bike and watersports rental options.
Guided programming includes the Wildlife Discovery Tour, a two-hour kayak tour led by naturalist guides that explores salt marshes, hidden channels, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Tours include hands-on activities such as clamming and netting, plus ecological interpretation about the island's habitats and species. Watersports rentals include a brief orientation and personalized route suggestions to help guests navigate back bays and coastal waterways. Overnight rentals accommodate extended island exploration; park entrance fees referenced with some rentals are valid for a week.
Assateague Outfitters operates from both Bayside Stand and the Visitor Center and provides equipment for solo paddlers, tandems, and groups. The offering emphasizes accessible, self-guided and guided outdoor experiences for all skill levels at Assateague Island. Full-day watersports rentals run from 9 AM to 6 PM, providing a window for exploration. Two-hour watersports rentals are suitable for all skill levels and also include orientation and route suggestions. Weeklong options let visitors keep equipment for extended coastal exploration, while three-day and overnight 24-hour rentals support multi-day island stays.
Location
Berlin, MD
Based near Assateague Island
Watersports
Kayak, SUP, Canoe
Single & tandem options
Bike Rentals
2h–3 day
Full day & overnight options
Guided Tour
Wildlife Discovery
Two-hour naturalist kayak tour
Reserve a kayak, SUP, canoe, or bike for two hours up to a week — choose a guided wildlife tour for expert naturalist interpretation.
Check Weather Forecasts
Always verify weather conditions before heading out; coastal weather can change rapidly.
Bring Navigation Tools
Carry waterproof maps and GPS devices to stay oriented in marshy or open water areas.
Protect Your Gear
Use waterproof bags and containers to keep belongings dry during overnight trips.
Plan Your Campsite
Identify legal and safe camping spots along the shoreline before starting your paddle.
Personal Flotation Device
A properly fitted PFD is crucial for safety on open water.
Sun Protection
Bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure.
summer
Dry Bags
Use dry bags for storing electronics, clothing, and food.
Camping Equipment
Pack lightweight camping gear suitable for coastal overnight stays.
spring;summer;fall