Old Landing Wharf

Old Landing Wharf provides access to Sippicon Harbor, one of the more protected paddling destinations along the South Shore. This sheltered bay offers consistently calm conditions that make it ideal for beginners and anyone looking for a relaxed paddle without dealing with open ocean swells. The harbor connects to Buzzards Bay but remains well-protected from prevailing winds, creating a reliable spot when conditions elsewhere along the coast are too rough. What sets Sippicon Harbor apart is its combination of easy access, scenic shoreline dotted with classic New England waterfront homes, and enough area to explore without feeling cramped.

The tidal nature of Sippicon Harbor means you'll want to plan around the tide cycle, though the currents here are generally mild and manageable for beginners. High tide offers the most water and easiest navigation around the harbor's edges, while low tide can expose some shallow areas and mudflats that limit where you can paddle. Wind is rarely an issue thanks to the surrounding land, but when it does pick up from the south or southwest, it typically creates small chop rather than challenging waves. The harbor stays relatively calm even during moderate wind conditions that would make nearby open water uncomfortable.

Kayakers will find this an excellent spot for building confidence in tidal waters without the intimidation factor of ocean paddling. The protected nature makes it perfect for new sea kayakers transitioning from lakes and rivers. SUP enthusiasts particularly appreciate the consistently flat water, which allows for focus on technique without worrying about balance in waves. The harbor's size provides enough room for longer paddles if you explore all the coves and work your way toward the harbor mouth, though most paddlers stay well within the protected areas. Fishing from kayaks is productive here, particularly for striped bass and scup during their respective seasons.

March through November represents the prime paddling window, with water temperatures and weather conditions most favorable during this period. Spring paddling can be excellent once water temperatures rise, though you'll want to dress appropriately as air temperatures can still be cool. Summer brings the warmest conditions and longest days, making it the most popular time, which means sharing the harbor with more boat traffic on weekends. Fall offers some of the best paddling with fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and beautiful foliage along the shoreline. Winter paddling is possible for experienced cold water paddlers, but the seasonal boat ramp closure and harsh conditions make it impractical for most.

The concrete boat ramp at Old Landing Wharf handles launching easily, with enough space for multiple vehicles and trailers, though it can get busy on summer weekends. Parking is available right at the launch site, making the carry to water minimal. The ramp remains in good condition and provides reliable access across different tide levels, though launching at very low tide requires a longer walk down the ramp. From Marion center, it's a straightforward drive down Spring Street to the waterfront. The proximity to town means you can easily grab supplies or food before or after paddling, and the short distance from Route 6 makes it accessible from the greater Boston area without a major drive.