Because the waters in and around Whalen Island are shallow, you should plan your canoeing or kayaking excursion during high tide. Tides switch about every six hours, meaning that there are two high tides each day. Check a local tide chart for the date of your kayaking trip and plan accordingly. Remember that you need to give yourself ample time to kayak out and back, therefore, keeping one half of your trip to about two hours will allow you to safely return. Otherwise, you may be carrying your kayak back across the sandy beach which is exposed when the tide is low.
There is a boar ramp located within Whalen Island County Park that is built for motorized boats. However, if it's not occupied, you may walk your boat to the edge of the water line, enter the boat and paddle off. Additionally, you may choose to launch your canoe, kayak or rubber boat from any point on the beaches open to the public. Bring things you need aboard the boat so they are not left unattended on the beach. Lock valuables that are not appropriate for the boat in your car or camper.
If you are a novice in the world of kayaking, canoeing or paddling a small boat, then consider going on a guided tour. Kayaking businesses in the area provide both public and guided tours lead by professionals who are certified in both CPR and first aid. Additionally, the guided tours have predetermined pathways to take around the various waterways that surround Whalen Island. Finally, guided tours also provide all the equipment needed for the trip including the watercraft, paddles, life jackets and helmets.
Sand Creek runs along the eastern side of Whalen Island and eventually empties into Sand Lake, which is the body of water that surrounds Whalen Island when the tide is high. Ultimately, the water of Sand Lake empties into the Pacific Ocean. In conjunction with the tide chart, create a map of how you will paddle around the island. If heading north, keep Whalen Island on your right. If heading south, keep Whalen Island on your left. If you head due west directly across from Clay Meyers State Natural Area, you'll head to the mouth of the Pacific Ocean. Keep in mind that as you get closer to the ocean, the current will become more extreme. If paddling with the current, this aids your direction. If paddling against the current, it impedes your ability to travel. By heading back toward Clay Meyers natural area, the current decreases.
