Howlands Landing

Howlands Landing provides straightforward access to Kingston Bay, a sheltered corner of Massachusetts' south shore that's ideal for paddlers developing their skills. The launch sits on the eastern side of the bay near Duxbury, offering protection from Atlantic swells and a naturally calm paddling environment. The bay itself is relatively shallow and enclosed, making it forgiving for beginners while still offering enough distance to explore. You'll paddle through a mix of open water and narrow channels lined with salt marsh, giving you variety without the exposure of open ocean paddling.

Expect tidal conditions that noticeably affect your paddling experience here. The bay has a decent tidal range, so plan your outings around the tide cycle rather than fighting current or dealing with thin water. Low tide can expose mudflats in certain areas, which limits where you can paddle safely. The water tends to be calm and protected regardless of wind direction, thanks to the surrounding geography. Conditions are manageable for kayaks and SUPs alike, though you'll find easier paddling at mid to high tide when the entire bay is accessible. Wildlife is common here, particularly waterfowl and wading birds in the marsh areas, so bring binoculars if that interests you.

The paddling season runs strong from March through November, with shoulder months offering fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Summer brings the most activity and warmth, but also more boat traffic in nearby areas. Winter is technically possible but water temperatures drop significantly. Howlands Landing sits just 2.3 miles from downtown Duxbury, making it convenient to reach from the north shore area. Parking is available at the launch site, though spaces can fill on weekends during peak season. There's no formal facility here, so bring what you need. Duxbury itself has restaurants and shops if you want to grab food before or after paddling. Launch and recovery are straightforward with sandy beach access suitable for both kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.