Water Adventures Every College Student Should Try

Attending college offers the perfect opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and experience all that life has to offer. If your campus is near a lake, river, or ocean, there’s a whole world of water-based fun waiting for you. Every college student should try the following water adventures.

Paddleboarding With Friends

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is exploding in popularity among students, and for a good reason. It’s easy to learn, incredibly peaceful, and gives you a full-body workout while you soak up the sun. Many waterfronts near college towns rent boards by the hour, so you don’t need to invest in gear. Challenge your friends to a race or paddle out for some quiet time between classes.

Kayak Fishing

Fishing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of college sports, but kayak fishing blends the serenity of nature with the thrill of the catch. It’s affordable, accessible, and great for clearing your mind. Just make sure to read up on essential safety tips for beginner kayak anglers before heading out. Kayak fishing is fun, but you need to stay safe on the water.

Join a Whitewater Rafting Trip

If you crave adrenaline, gather a group of classmates and sign up for a whitewater rafting adventure. Outfitters often offer group discounts for college students, and the guided trips come with all the equipment and training you need. Rafting builds trust, teamwork, and stories you’ll tell for years to come.

Take a Surfing Lesson

Live near the coast? Surfing is the ultimate water adventure. Most beach towns offer beginner classes where you can learn how to catch your first wave. You’ll wipe out, but you’ll also experience one of the most freeing feelings in the world when you finally ride one in.

Try a Night Swim

Swimming under the stars is a rite of passage. If you’re lucky enough to be near a safe and legal spot, grab a towel and a few close friends for a late-night dip. It’s spontaneous, simple, and surprisingly magical. The cool water and quiet atmosphere create a peaceful escape from everyday stress.

Set Sail on a New Adventure

If you’re looking for a unique challenge and a peaceful escape, sailing is one of the most memorable water adventures every college student should try. It doesn’t matter if you’re learning to navigate a small dinghy or hopping aboard a larger vessel with friends; sailing teaches patience, teamwork, and a deep respect for nature. You’ll feel the wind in your face and experience a total break from campus life.

Go on a Canoe Camping Trip

Combine your love for nature and adventure with a canoe camping trip. Paddle along a river during the day, then pitch a tent under the stars at night. It’s a great way to unplug and bond with friends outside the dorms or lecture halls. You’ll sharpen your navigation and teamwork skills, all while experiencing breathtaking views.

College is short, and memories made outside the classroom often last the longest. Whether it’s gliding over calm water or tackling rapids with your crew, the water adventures in this guide offer fun, fitness, and even a little personal growth.

Image Credentials: By yossarian6, File 464227080