Why Casual Kayakers? We really enjoy kayaking! We want to share that joy with you.
Yes, whitewater kayaking/rafting can be exhilarating and kayaking can be great exercise. Our target demographic is in between those extremes. Casual Kayakers are:
- Those who want to see the sights, to take in the natural beauty and share the camaraderie a lake or stream/river that can only found when not running a motor constantly.
- Those who want to get their family and/or friends on the water without the stress or risks associated with whitewater or endurance paddling or the costs of motor-boat or jetski rental – plus everyone capable can paddle their kayak or SUP,
- Those who want to get a low-stress taste of kayaking/SUP human-powered water activities without committing to an expensive outing or high-energy experience.
- Those who want to try out multiple kayaks and SUPs and associated gear before purchasing their or renting elsewhere.
We are adding new launch locations & new kayaks / SUPs every summer.
This gives more flexible options for you and your family & friends.
Paddling Adventures Your Way
Barry Wardlaw
Lead Guide
Welcome you to Casual Kayakers. I grew up around numerous bodies of water, spending my childhood on the picturesque lakes, streams, and rivers of Arkansas. Through my time in the Boy Scouts and frequent trips to Greers Ferry Lake, I also became skilled in the essentials of scuba diving, boating, and canoeing, which quickly became a favorite pastime.
My passion for kayaking started as an adult, while I was stationed in Hawaii. Along with friends, I kayaked up the stunning Wailua River, located on the island of Kauai, the “Garden Island.” I then took a guided kayak tour to the Kāohikaipu Islet Seabird Sanctuary off the south eastern shore of Oahu. After falling in love with all the beauty, peace, and joy that can be found while kayaking, I was hooked. I took advantage of every opportunity to paddle the magnificent waters of Hawaii.
Once I moved to Southeastern Virginia in 2008, I bought my first kayak and started to explore the vast and varied waters around Suffolk, VA. Soon thereafter, I decided that paddle trips would be better with a friend, so I purchased a second kayak. I then purchased another kayak so I could take more friends, and finally, acquired additional kayaks so could share the adventure with small groups. This prompted me to start this new venture of sharing my passion for kayaking with others.
My goal is to provide safe, family-friendly fun, on the magnificent ocean, lakes, and rivers of Southeastern Virginia and North Eastern North Carolina. I’m starting this business as a mostly weekend endeavor, and keeping my weekday job, until I can do this fulltime.
I’ll be your personal guide for a half- or full-day trips on the local body of water we agree to. Using available public boat ramps and kayak/canoe launches, your trip with Casual Kayakers will offer you the opportunity to unwind and enjoy nature and the fresh air, some suggested launch locations are available to review.
Whether you are a novice or experienced paddler, your trip will be geared toward your experience and comfort level. For first-timers, Casual Kayakers offers an introduction to kayaking. Experienced paddlers can participate in longer, and more challenging trips. We can accommodate individuals, families, and groups up to ten to a dozen kayakers.
I hope you decide to spend some time on the water with Casual Kayakers. You only need to choose a location, gather up your crew, and make a reservation. We’ll bring the kayaks and all the essential gear!
If you have any questions, check our FAQs, or drop us an email at Paddle@casual-kayakers.com and we’ll get back with you as quickly as we can.
Phone: (757) 945-1332
Casual Kayakers Advisory Group & Contributors
No one starts a small business alone. The Advisory Group helped us bring this idea to reality; reviewed drafts of my FAQ, Paddle planner form, Paddler Profile, Waiver form, and information sheets. We could not have gotten Casual Kayakers off the ground without their advice and support. Amy at One Stop Tech Shop helped me conceive, design, and flesh out this website, our Google business site and our social media presence. Cassidy Nowak designed the amazing Casual Kayakers log of the solo, tandem, and group kayakers and the SUP paddler and all the logo variations.
C&C – Advisors & Supporters
C&L – Advisors & Editors
P&D – Advisors & Beta Testers
Vendors to Consider
Paddlesport Companies & Kayak, SUP, & Paddle Manufactures
Appomattox River Company
Virginia Paddlesport Specialists
Northwest River Supply
Paddle Shirts, Layering and Outerwear,
Safety Gear & Paddle Accessories
Kayak manufacturers
