Discover the joy of paddling on Onset Bay with the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s well-loved Adult Paddling Club. Perfect for all skill levels, this three-week program combines expert guidance with breathtaking coastal scenery.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 weeks, flexible weekly sessions
Fitness Level
All fitness levels, basic agility and comfort on water recommended
Wildlife
History
Onset Bay’s maritime history dates back to the 1700s, once serving as a hub for fishing and shipbuilding.
Conservation
The Buzzards Bay Coalition actively works to preserve water quality and coastal habitats, promoting sustainable recreation.
Buzzards Bay Coalition
Discover the joy of paddling on Onset Bay with the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s well-loved Adult Paddling Club. Perfect for all skill levels, this three-week program combines expert guidance with breathtaking coastal scenery.
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 and pack water-resistant gear
Bring a good life jacket and water-resistant clothing to stay comfortable and safe in changing conditions.
Arrive early for best conditions
Getting on the water early can offer calmer waters and a peaceful paddling experience.
Practice safety protocols
Always listen to your instructor’s safety instructions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun
Bring plenty of water, sunblock, and a hat to enjoy the day without sunburn or dehydration.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A life jacket is essential for safety and required on all paddling trips.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses help prevent sunburn during daytime paddles.
summer
Waterproof clothing
Waterproof layers keep you comfortable in changing weather.
spring;fall;winter
Water bottle and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized throughout your paddling session.