How do I access Sand Island?

Sand Island is a public boat ramp in Pennsylvania. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Sand Island?

Sand Island supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Sand Island?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Sand Island?

The best time to paddle at Sand Island is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Sand Island?

Water conditions at Sand Island include mild current.

Is Sand Island good for beginners?

Yes, Sand Island is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

a bridge over a river with a building in the background

Photo by Zhen Yao on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Sand Island

Bethlehem, PA · Boat Ramp · Public

Sand Island is a public boat ramp on Lehigh River near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

River access at Sand Island near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Sand Island offers access to Lehigh River in Pennsylvania. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Bethlehem, Sand Island is a convenient option for Bethlehem-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Sand Island?: Sand Island is a public boat ramp in Pennsylvania. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Sand Island?: Sand Island supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Sand Island?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Sand Island?: The best time to paddle at Sand Island is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Sand Island?: Water conditions at Sand Island include mild current.
Is Sand Island good for beginners?: Yes, Sand Island is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 40.6151, -75.3863