As paddlers, we see firsthand the staggering effects of pollution and environmental neglect. According to EarthDay.org, global plastics have reached an estimated 460 million metric tons in recent years, with 75 to 199 million tons currently polluting our oceans. Smaller items, like cigarette butts, contribute immensely to the problem. 4…
Kayaking is one of the most exciting ways to get close to nature – but your vessel itself can make (or break) your adventure. For women paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s crucial to select a kayak that fits your needs, skill level, and the type of water you’re navigating. This guide…
Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the water or searching for a different type of paddleboarding excursion, finding the perfect paddleboard is key to enjoying your time on the water. While the variety of paddleboards may seem overwhelming at first glance, we’re here to help! Here is how you…
By Sonya Schweitzer, Founder When we first set out to organize the Crystal River Manatee Retreat for Girl Paddlers, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I had high hopes—it seemed like the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and connection—but as with any group event, there’s always that little bit…
Spring is just around the corner, for Girl Paddlers it’s a season of possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker, a canoeing enthusiast, or an avid stand-up paddleboarder (SUP), the warmer temps and longer days signal the return of the adventures you’ve been dreaming about all winter. Now is the perfect…
Happy Valentine’s Day! For us Girl Paddlers, stepping into a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard means more than communing with the water. It’s about building strength and fitness, boosting mental health, making new memories with loved ones, and much more. Whether you’re new to paddling or a seasoned pro, there’s…
Calling all paddlers: Now is the perfect time to experience Australia’s breathtaking waterways in all their glory. Starting in February, the “down under” summer heat softens into more comfortable temps, making it ideal for water activities. Australia features an array of waterways for all experience levels and speeds, not to…
So you want to be a better paddler – awesome! No matter your current level of expertise, water sports provide endless opportunities for improvement. These practical and empowering tips will help you maximize your potential and paddle stronger, smarter, and safer in 2025. Designed with all paddlers in mind, this guide…
Admittedly, these podcast episodes have been subjectively chosen by our team, in no particular order. They’re so great that we wanted to make sure other Girl Paddlers didn’t miss the chance to listen to them. From Olympic-winning journeys to tips for growing your skills, these 5 paddling podcast episodes will…
After working for about three years in the outdoor industry, I decided to make my biggest seasonal work life change yet: heading north to guide in Alaska. Going to Juneau felt like the pinnacle of my guiding career thus far, and I’d be taking on a sport I’d never professionally…
Guiding in Alaska is a dream of many in the outdoor industry, its wilderness calling to lovers of the mountains and the water alike. Having lived in Alaska for a season before, I jumped on the opportunity to go back and guide, this time in Southeast Alaska, a region I…
In the world of water sports, where every paddle stroke counts, there’s an opportunity to make even more of a splash this Giving Tuesday. This annual day of generosity is a perfect time to unite for a cause that resonates deeply with our love for water. This year, Girl Paddlers…
At Girl Paddlers, our mission is to empower and elevate women in the world of paddling by sharing stories, experiences, and insights that inspire our community. We’re thrilled to introduce a new guest series from a professional multi-sport guide who has navigated not just challenging waters, but the obstacles faced…
Shopping malls, crowded family gatherings, flashing lights, holiday cheer – and paddling? If you’re like us, the holiday season isn’t any reason to put down your paddles. Amid what can feel like an endless parade of obligations, why not glide past the chaos and take an opportunity this fall and…
If you’re lucky enough to live in an area where your paddle season is extended and you’re able to enjoy the water year-round. If not, there will come a time when the temperatures are too cold to enjoy an outing, or the water freezes over and you have nowhere to…
Every member of the Girl Paddlers community has a unique tale to tell. By sharing those ideas and experiences, your stories can help enrich the group as a whole by providing words of encouragement, hope, strength, and joy. As a kinship, we have a deep desire to showcase the thoughts…
It’s spooky season, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by combining Halloween with your favorite water activity – paddling! Whether you’re a kayaker, paddleboarder, or simply someone who loves the great outdoors, this guide is packed with creative costume ideas and practical tips to help you plan the…
It can be argued that one should always live in the moment. Some people might be of the belief that stopping to take a photo on the water detracts from the sheer joy that you’re trying to capture for prosperity. Others might take the side that there is also delight…
What happens when you combine your passion for the water with an opportunity to learn interesting information, meet like-minded people, see new things, and be an inquisitive champion of nature? For one, it’s a stellar opportunity for a good workout, but it’s also what can happen when you participate in…
The 2024 Summer Olympics was nothing short of thrilling, especially for fans of women’s water sports. From the adrenaline-pumping rapids of canoe slalom to the intense sprints on smooth waters, female athletes showcased their incredible skill and determination. Let’s take a deep dive into this year’s unforgettable moments in women’s…
Girl Paddlers is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community.
We welcome women of all skill and experience levels including kayaking, SUP, canoeing, and any other water vessels to join us.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, we provide an environment where women feel safe, supported, and inspired to enjoy their paddling journey.
