Discover Michigan’s Harbor Country as you enjoy New Buffalo kayaking or paddleboarding through the New Buffalo Marsh, a unique Great Lakes marsh that formed along the Galien River just upstream from Lake Michigan. Your Galien River kayaking adventure begins by paddling upstream (north) before an easy return downstream to our rental location.
Weather may affect hours. Click “Book Now” for real-time calendar.
Designed for all experience levels, these trips offer calm water, straightforward routes, and plenty of time to relax and take in the scenery.
Your safety is our top priority. We adhere to strict safety standards so you can focus on your paddling adventure with confidence.
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available mid-May through mid-October for river locations and late May through Labor Day for beach locations. Please check availability as hours are subject to change due to weather.
The Galien River is one of New Buffalo’s best-kept secrets, winding gently through a peaceful marsh before it meets Lake Michigan. Just upstream from the harbor, it opens into the Galien River Marsh, a rare Great Lakes wetland full of birds, turtles, fish, and native plants. It’s a perfect place for kayaking in New Buffalo or Galien River paddleboarding, where calm waters wind through the marsh and the sights and sounds of nature surround you.
A big part of this special area is the Louis J. Sima Great Lakes Marsh Preserve, managed by Chikaming Open Lands. It protects over 150 acres of wetland and provides homes for more than 140 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The preserve is part of a larger conservation area that includes Galien River County Park, where you can stroll along boardwalks, spot bald eagles and cranes, or fish and birdwatch along the river. Whether you’re paddling, walking, or just taking it all in, the Galien River is a peaceful, wildlife-filled escape in the heart of Harbor Country.
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Galien River kayaking and paddleboard rentals are located at the north end of the New Buffalo Boat Launch, 200 Marquette Dr, New Buffalo (across from New Buffalo City Beach).
Parking: Available in the lot ($7.50 for 3 hours). Fees are set by the City of New Buffalo and are subject to change.
No, you simply paddle back to where you started when you’re done. It is easy, as there is very little current on the Paw Paw River, Galien River, and Wade’s Bayou. It is also convenient since you don’t have to wait for a shuttle – just paddle upstream or downstream and return back to the rental site when finished.
Yes, you really can paddle both upstream and downstream at our river rental locations. Our launches are situated near where the rivers meet Lake Michigan — which results in much less current than if you were to paddle at points farther up the river. You can paddle out and return right back to where you started. No need for a shuttle or getting dropped off, which we do not offer.
At all of our rental sites, you can paddle as long as you like and just turn around when you’re ready to return to the launch site. (No need for a shuttle, which we do not offer.) Our most popular reservation length is two hours.
If you need to reschedule your reservation, use the link in your booking confirmation email to choose a new day and time. You must reschedule BEFORE your original reservation time. We’re happy to reschedule rentals, but there are no refunds on these services.
You do not need to worry about tipping our kayaks over. They are beginner-friendly sit-on-top style kayaks that are very stable and designed not to tip easily. While our kayaks are designed for stability, it’s important to note that any kayak can tip if a paddler stands up or behaves unsafely.
Yes, each guest is required to sign a waiver, which includes agreeing to wear their life jacket the entire time.
We encourage you to book ahead of time online to make sure you get the equipment you want when you want. Visit thirdcoastpaddling.com, click “book now,” and choose your rental location. You’re also welcome to drop by to rent, but your selection may be limited – or not available at all – depending on demand.
