From places to stay to where to eat on Smith Island, check out www.visitsmithisland.com.
Here's a list of Practical Tips for Your Visit to Smith Island.
Paddling Tips
- Leave your paddling route with a friend or relative before you head out. Paddle with a partner or a group.
- Wear a life jacket.
- Always carry water when paddling.
- Seek local knowledge about weather, tides and currents. Tidal currents are modest but may make your route more difficult.
- Bring a spare paddle in case one is lost or breaks.
- Wear wading shoes and clothes that can get wet. Bring a change of clothes in a dry bag or heavy duty trash bag.
- When paddling at night or in dim light, carry a headlamp or flashlight.
- Never stand up in a canoe or kayak.
- Allow enough time to get off the water if summer thunderstorms are threatening.
- Operating watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal.
- It is your responsibility to have the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment for a safe visit.
Recommended Gear
- Life jackets
- Water
- Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Bug repellent
- Headlamp or flashlight, for evening paddles
- Change of clothes in dry bag or heavy duty trash bag
- One paddle per person, and one extra paddle
- Water trail guide and compass
- Whistle attached to life jacket
- Bailer and sponge
- Camera or binoculars in waterproof carrying case
- Spray skirt, at kayaker's discretion
- Fishing license
- Snacks
For waterproof copies of the Smith Island Water Trails Paddlers Guide brochure, email Jim Rapp at dlitedirector@comcast.net, or visit www.delmarvalite.org.