TRIP – Haven Beach / Chesapeake Bay

This public beach in Mathews County Virginia is a great place to go for a “big water” paddle in the Chesapeake Bay. In recent years, the road has been paved, and a parking area has been added with a comfort station. There is plenty of room for cars now – even on a gorgeous day like today!

Here’s a tip: Save the bottom of your kayak! Unless you can shoulder the boat and gear, use a kayak dolly to haul it from the parking area to the beach.

There were a number of plastic boat comrades out paddling all types of kayaks. There were several stand up paddlers too. I would have thought the wind and swells would make it too difficult, but they seemed to be having fun!

The protected lagoon would be a good place for a beginner to practice using a sea kayak. The water at high-tide is deep enough to practice rolling and re-entering the boat. Then you can head out for a paddle to Rigby Island and back. Depending on tides and wind across the Chesapeake Bay, this short trip could be a real workout!

If you have the time and experience in open water, a paddle to Gwynn’s Island and Milford Haven would make a great day trip.