Sea kayaking takes you straight into the heart of the great outdoors: no motors, no noise, no pollution. You go with the flow, gliding effortlessly beneath towering peaks or along rocky shorelines while floating above sea life unapproachable in any other craft. Kayaks let you visit whales and seals in their natural environment; get close to calving glaciers and narrow, twisting fjords; and snake through mangrove estuaries teeming with birdlife. And you won't leave a hint of your passing--not even a footprint.

Top 10: Our favorite destinations
The Basics: Tips on how to get started
The Right Trip: Choosing a vacation to suit your interests
Gear Guide: Selecting the best sea kayak
Resources: Associations, schools, books, and magazines