Reviewed by: Sharron Swain
7 ways to beat the heat on the water this summer— kayaking, paddle boarding and more
We know—it’s hot out there. With temperatures climbing toward the 90s by morning, we have to find ways to stay cool. Keep reading for seven ways to get on the water and beat the heat around Birmingham this summer.
1. Flip Side Watersports
Flip Side Watersports is a cable wakeboard park located at Oak Mountain State Park. Whether you’re just starting out or a professional rider, they have the coaches and the features fit for any skill level. With one of the longest cable in North America, you are sure have a great time.
- Location: 8195 B John Findlay III Dr, Birmingham, AL 35242
- Hours: Daily 10AM-6PM
- Price: tickets vary
- Facebook | Website
2. Blue Water Park
Did you know you can go scuba diving right outside of Birmingham? Blue Water Park also has many fun water activities and rides.
PLUS—you can bring your own paddle board or kayak and just enjoy the lake if that’s more your vibe.
- Location: 100 Industrial Park Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
- Hours: Friday 10AM-5PM | Saturday 9AM-6PM | Sunday 9AM-5PM
- Price: $30 entrance fee | rental prices vary
- Facebook | Website
3. Lake Purdy
Lake Purdy is a state water reservoir with some of the cleanest water in the state. Bank fishing is free and they have lots of fishing equipment to purchase, live and artificial bait and boats for rent. Sounds like the perfect way to enjoy a day on the water.
- Location: 3780 Boat Launch Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 6AM-8PM
- Price: rentals vary
- Facebook | Website
4. Big Canoe Creek
Whether you need a relaxing float, a fishing expedition or just some good ole family fun, Big Canoe Creek is a great setting for it all. Their creek is great for all levels from beginner to advanced experience.
- Location: 6545 AL-23, Springville, AL 35146
- Hours: Friday-Sunday 8:30AM-4:30PM
- Price: Single Kayak $40 | Double Kayak $50 | Shuttle fee with your own boat $20
- Facebook | Website
5. No Worries Kayaking
No Worries Kayak Rental makes preparing for your summer adventure very easy. They provide the kayak, paddle, life jackets and anything else you can think of.
- Location: 593 County Rd 336, Piedmont, AL 36272
- Hours: Daily 8AM-2PM
- Price: Kayak $30 | Double Kayak $50 | Canoe $50
- Facebook | Website
6. Tree Line Expeditions
Treeline Expeditions has a variety of kayaking expeditions, including a scenic night cruise where the moonlight guides you down the Cahaba River. There’s one way to beat the heat!
- Location: 1137 S Shadesview Terrace, Birmingham, AL 35209
- Hours: Check website for tour times
- Price: Tours vary
- Facebook | Website
7. Terrapin Outdoor Center
What’s better than a quiet, peaceful float down Terrapin Creek? There’s clean, clear water, beautiful scenery, great fishing, wildlife and enough moving water to keep things fun.
- Location: 4114 County Road 175, Piedmont, AL 36272
- Hours: Open daily 9AM-5PM | Closed Mondays
- Price: Kayak rentals $30 | Shuttle your own boat $10
- Facebook | Website
Not so into the watersports of it all? No worries. Here are a few more ways to keep cool:
- Hang out at these 19 pools and splash pads in Birmingham this summer
- Celebrate summer with these 6 family friendly water activities near Birmingham
- Feel refreshed at the 5 best spots to get lemonade in Birmingham
Birmingham, where are you cooling off this summer? Tag us and let us know your favorite spots @bhamnow!
