Season Ends Mid October - Old School RSVP via 516-669-2296
Everything you need to know before you get on the water.
Whether you're a first-time paddler, a regular, bringing the family, planning a group outing, or visiting Long Island from NYC, here's what to know before your Shore Thing adventure.
Walk-ins are welcome throughout the day. Let us know if you have a large group, groups of 6 or more can complete their waiver and deposit ahead of time so we can prepare for your group and get everyone on the water efficiently.
Yes. Every participant must complete a waiver before getting on the water.
We recommend completing your waiver before you arrive so there are fewer steps between you and your adventure. Once it is done we will keep it on file for the current season.
It’s not necessary to support credit card companies and their fees. We have lots of options for payment when you arrive, but if you’d like to pay ahead of time that is great.
Yes. Shore Thing welcomes beginners and offers equipment for different experience levels.
If you're new to paddling, let us know. We're happy to help you choose equipment and get started.
No. That's the whole point!
Shore Thing provides kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and other equipment so you can enjoy the water without hauling and maintaining your own gear. There is an option to pay a launch fee if bringing your own equipment.
Our rental options include:
We also offer special experiences and group outings throughout the season.
Yes. Private guided paddles are available for an additional fee and should be requested in advance.
Guided experiences can include route recommendations and destination stops depending on the experience you're planning.
Yes. Shore Thing can accommodate private experiences for groups of up to 40 people, including parties, family gatherings, corporate team building outings, wellness experiences, bachelor/bachelorette and other custom adventures.
Because availability is limited, groups should contact Shore Thing in advance.
We may be able to refer you to one of friendly nautical neighbors if you're looking for something outside of the regular rental fleet. Contact Shore Thing Rentals with what you're interested in and we'll help determine what's possible.
Shore Thing is located on the North Shore of Long Island with access to Hempstead Harbor and nearby waterfront areas.
Depending on conditions and experience level, you can explore the harbor, paddle toward Sea Cliff or Glen Cove beaches, birdwatch at a nature preserve and stop for a swim, or join one of our weekly guided excursions.
You are welcome to explore within the appropriate areas for your rental and conditions, but always follow Shore Thing's instructions and local water-safety requirements.
If you're unsure where to go, ask us. We can help you find the right route for the wind and water conditions that day. If you’re craving a peaceful paddle we can tell you the place, if you’re looking to socialize, we’ve got that too.
Water activities are weather-dependent.
Sunset outings and special events may be affected by weather conditions. Shore Thing will make decisions based on conditions and safety.
When in doubt, contact us before heading out.
Rentals are generally for 90 minutes, but we love to see you have fun on the water and like to be liberal with the time, so bring the picnic or go for that swim! You can always book extra hours or days. Be sure to check out our monthly and seasonal rentals.
Wear clothing and shoes appropriate for being outdoors and potentially getting wet. We recommend only bringing what you may need while on the water, we have a safe place for the rest.
Yes. You're welcome to bring your own cooler and make your rental part of a full day outdoors.
Shore Thing also has snacks and beverages available.
Yes. Bathrooms and showers are available so you can rinse off and comfortably transition to your next activity.
Our equipment is powered by humanoids.
Our kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and bikes are human-powered, giving you a way to enjoy the outdoors with a low-carbon-footprint approach.
We believe enjoying the water and taking care of it should go together.
Keep an eye out while you're paddling.
If you see litter in the water or along the waterfront, bring it back to Shore Thing and we'll give you an ice pop or another treat.
It's our small way of making environmental stewardship part of the Shore Thing experience.
We ask customers to:
We're here to help you have fun. We expect you to help us keep the experience safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone.
Shore Thing welcomes families, but participation and equipment should be appropriate for each person's age, size, ability, and the current conditions. Our large double kayaks can accommodate a 3rd small person (under 10 years old). We will help you find the best available equipment for your group.
Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising children and following all applicable safety requirements.
Yes. Private experiences can accommodate up to 40 people, depending on the activity and availability.
For groups of 6 or more, please contact Shore Thing or complete your online arrangements before arriving.
Yes. Social media pages are the best place to find our weekly events. Depending on the season, Shore Thing may offer:
Yes. Shore Thing is accessible from NYC via the LIRR Oyster Bay Line, with nearby train stations serving the area.
This makes it possible to turn a trip from the city into a full North Shore day.
Yes. There is plentiful parking available inside the marina.
Don't feel like you have to head home immediately.
Take a shower, grab a snack, relax, rent a bike to explore the area, visit a nearby beach, or grab something to eat at a nearby waterfront restaurant.
The rental can be the beginning of your day—not the end of it.
Shore Thing is about more than getting equipment into your hands.
We've been part of the North Shore community since 2012, and we're focused on creating a place where people can get outside, connect with the water, try something new, and come back again.
You can come for a kayak rental, but you might stay for the sunset, discover a new fitness routine, meet other people, or make Shore Thing part of your summer by enrolling in our unlimited “board membership” for a month or the whole season.
If you like being outside, trying new things, spending time on the water, moving your body, exploring Long Island, and having a good time without making everything complicated, you're probably in the right place.
You don't have to be an expert.
You just need to show up ready to participate, respect the water, and enjoy the experience.
We're happy to help.
If your question is about a special event, private group, guided paddle, boat experience, accessibility, or something specific to your planned visit, contact Shore Thing Rentals before you arrive.
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