KENNEBUNK KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle to Goat Island: Kayak the Sheltered Harbors and Lighthouse of Cape Porpoise
A guided, beginner-friendly kayak tour through the sheltered waters of Cape Porpoise with a landing at Goat Island to visit its historic lighthouse.
Paddle to Goat Island: Kayak the Sheltered Harbors and Lighthouse of Cape Porpoise.
From a private launch at the south end of Cape Porpoise Harbor, a Registered Maine Sea Kayak Guide leads paddlers through sheltered channels and among small islands, with a planned landing on Goat Island to visit the island’s historic lighthouse, and a route that may include Stage Island and Sampson Cove as you thread back toward this classic New England fishing village.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Goat Island Lighthouse
Every tour includes a landing on Goat Island to visit the historic lighthouse; when conditions and keeper permission allow, guests may enter the lighthouse and photograph views from the top deck while exploring the pebble beach for sea glass.
Islands, Ledges and Open-Atlantic Views
The route often takes paddlers north to Stage Island to view the open Atlantic from within the protection of islands and a high ledge, then winds into Sampson Cove before returning toward the harbor center.
Sheltered, Beginner-Friendly Paddling
Cape Porpoise Harbor’s protected waters and small islands create placid conditions ideal for first-time kayakers and relaxed island exploration led by a Registered Maine Kayak Guide.
What the day feels like
What the Paddle Feels Like
The tour unfolds as a gentle circuit of a sheltered harbor: a short shuttle and fitting, an easy paddle through channels around small islands, a beach landing on Goat Island to stretch legs and photograph the lighthouse, followed by coastal ledges at Stage Island and a quiet glide into Sampson Cove before returning toward the village.
THE LANDMARK
Goat Island Lighthouse
Every tour includes a landing on Goat Island to visit the historic lighthouse; when conditions and keeper permission allow, guests may enter the lighthouse and photograph views from the top deck while exploring the pebble beach for sea glass.
THE ROUTE
Islands, Ledges and Open-Atlantic Views
The route often takes paddlers north to Stage Island to view the open Atlantic from within the protection of islands and a high ledge, then winds into Sampson Cove before returning toward the harbor center.
THE EXPERIENCE
Sheltered, Beginner-Friendly Paddling
Cape Porpoise Harbor’s protected waters and small islands create placid conditions ideal for first-time kayakers and relaxed island exploration led by a Registered Maine Kayak Guide.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should plan carefully.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full outing runs 4–5 hours total, including the shuttle pickup, PFD fitting, the on-water tour and shuttle drop-off.
Participants should meet at the Coastal Maine Outdoors shop for a complimentary shuttle to the launch; arrive 15 minutes before the shuttle departs and note that the tour is timed with the tide.
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water; wear clothing appropriate for the weather that you don’t mind getting wet.
The tour provides a kayak (single or tandem), paddle, personal flotation device (PFD), a dry box for phone and wallet, and a Registered Maine Kayak Guide.
There is no parking at the launch; park at the shop lot (pay kiosk) or the free lot about 0.6 miles away and use the complimentary shuttle to the launch site.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are tour start times fixed?
No — tour start times are determined by the tide; choose a date during booking to view available times.
Is Goat Island Lighthouse always open to visitors?
Lighthouse access is not guaranteed; entry is subject to the keeper’s permission and may be closed if it is unsafe.
Where do I meet for the tour and how early should I arrive?
Meet at the Coastal Maine Outdoors shop (shuttle departs to the launch); arrive 15 minutes before the shuttle leaves.
Can I bring my phone or other electronics on the tour?
Guests may bring personal electronic devices, but the operator is not responsible for lost or damaged devices; a dry box is provided for phone and wallet.
Who should I contact with questions or special requests?
Call 207-967-6065 or email [email protected] with questions about the tour, availability, or accessibility.
Is there parking at the launch?
No — there is no parking at the launch; use the shop parking or the free lot and take the complimentary shuttle to the launch site.