Erin, our Ad Sales Manager, moved to the area a few years ago with her boyfriend. They just got engaged (yay!) and she and her fiance, Mike, are having some fun discovering the Shoreline (which means they still go on “dates”!). And I’m having some fun telling them where to go! I’m in recovery mode from shoulder surgery, so not up to my usual summer antics, but there’s an E-List to write, so I sent Erin and Mike over to Black Hall Outfitters for a Sunset Stand Up Paddle. There are myriad ways to get out on the water here, but nothing quite as up close and personal as SUP.

This two-hour tour for all levels heads out from Old Lyme to the Great Island National Preserve just in time for a stunning sunset. A guide will set you up and provide instructions and safety tips (kayaks are available if you’d prefer), then off you go through the preserve. The water is calm at this time of day, making for a leisurely paddle, and along the way, you’ll spot hawks and herons. As you can see from the photos, it’s spectacular!

Black Hall offers eco-tours and kayak fishing, too, using state-of-the-art equipment, in Old Lyme and at their brand new location in Westbrook at the Stewart McKinney Wildlife Preserve.

Check out their website and reserve your tour here.