New York’s summer months can be particularly punishing, but visitors can cool off a bit with free kayaking in the city’s rivers.

Near midtown, Pier 96 offers kayaking on the Hudson Mondays through Wednesdays in the evening and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM – 6PM. Kayakers must know how to swim. Visit www.manhattancommunityboathouse.org for more information.

Those who wish to venture a little farther from Manhattan can kayak in the protected waters near Louis Valentino Jr. Pier Park in Brooklyn. Hosted by Red Hook Boaters, free kayaking takes place on Sunday afternoons until September 23rd and Thursday evenings through August 16th. After kayaking, visitors can also participate in the optional beach cleanup efforts in line with the program’s ongoing mission for environmental protection. Visit www.redhookboaters.org for more information.

If you prefer to kayak on the East River, Pier 2 in Brooklyn Bridge Park will allow you to view breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge. And if the river mist doesn’t cool you off completely, you can take a quick walk to the nearby Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory for a sweet treat. Visit www.bbpboathouse.org for more information.

Further up in Queens, The Long Island City Community Boathouse offers kayaking in three locations this summer, all with unique views along the East River. Visit www.licboathouse.org to view the full calendar of events.

Last, but not least, if you find yourself day-tripping to Staten Island, Kayak Staten Island hosts free events on select Sundays at Raritan Bay with views of Red Bank Beach. Visit www.kayakstatenisland.org for more information.

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