If you’re sick of scrolling through Tumblr and watching videos on YouTube, remember that your dark little cave sits right on Manhasset Bay! Whether you’re looking to try your hand at fishing, explore the bay on a kayak, or catch a glimpse of those “Gatsby” houses, there are many opportunities for interesting aquatic exploration available to Port Washington residents.
Most recreational activities that can be done on the Bay start at a single store on Inspiration Wharf, located next to Douglas & James Ice Cream—Atlantic Outfitters, established in 2004.
Owner John Thomson has been offering a multitude of water-related products and services, amicably assisting customers with his knowledge and years of experience on the water. The store is well stocked with fishing bait and tackle, rods and reels, and other outdoor apparel, providing virtually all equipment necessary to spend some time on Manhasset Bay.
Atlantic Outfitters also provides a variety of activities on the bay such as fly fishing, kayaking, and standup paddle boarding. Of these, kayaking and standup paddle boarding are the most popular.
A single kayak rental is $30 for two hours, while the tandem kayak rental which is ideal for those who want to be on the water but put in half the effort is $45 for two hours. Kayaking is suitable for both beginners and advanced water-goers, providing a great opportunity to explore the bay and surrounding beaches.
“I went kayaking with my dad once and it was awesome. Port Washington looks so much prettier from the water,” said senior Lylia Li.
Group tours, which cost $60 per kayak, are also offered during the summer, and these are geared toward those with basic kayaking skills who want to watch the sunset from the southern end of Manhasset Bay.
“When I have a life outside of crew, I like to row some more and go kayaking with friends and de-stress,” said senior Matt Brandes.
For those who are more of a couch potato and want to put in minimal effort, taking a ride on the water taxi is a perfect alternative to kayaking and paddle boarding.
The Port Washington Water Taxi departs from the town dock Thursdays-Sundays at 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, and sunset, going on a tour of Manhasset Bay. The water taxi also offers tours of the various lighthouses located along western Long Island Sound.
While tickets for these tours range from $20 to $25, the Port Washington Public Library sells them at a discounted price on a first come, first serve basis during the spring and the summer.
“I didn’t know it was my town. It was so beautiful and it was nice to see it from a different perspective. The taxi makes a trip around the Bay. it’s cool to see how close we really are to the city. I didn’t realize that we had such cool lighthouses and other scenery nearby,” said freshman Amelia Zeh.
Inspiration wharf is a great place to go for a day of water sports or bay exploration. Before the cold weather hits, make your way to the bay to try out the fun waterfront activities.