BEGINNER FRIENDLY KAYAK & CANOE TOURS IN GEORGIA

Most Beautiful Waterways

Paddle Georgia’s

Beginner- friendly kayak and canoe rentals with guide included, lessons, wildlife tours, and unforgettable paddling adventures on Lake Acworth, Carters Lake, the Okefenokee, and other experiences across North & South Georgia.

No experience required. All equipment included.

Find Your Adventure

No experience required. We teach you before you launch

Kayaks, canoes, paddles, life jackets, and dry bags included

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A green compass rose with directions N, E, S, W, overlaid with the words 'Earth, Wind, Water, Fire' in black text, arranged around the compass.

Small Group Tours

Local Guides

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All Equipment Included

Beginner Friendly

Passionate local guides who love sharing Georgia’s waterways

Relaxed pace with time for wildlife, photos, and questions

Find Your Adventure

From beginner lessons to multi-day expeditions, there’s a paddle for every experience level.

  • Two women kayaking on a lake during sunset, smiling and paddling in orange and blue kayaks.

    Learn to Kayak

    Beginner kayak lessons just outside Atlanta on Lake Acworth with patient instruction, all equipment included, and a guided tour

    View Beginner Lessons
  • Calm river surrounded by lush green trees with mountains and cloudy sky in the background.

    Private Day Adventures

    Explore Georgia’s lakes, rivers, waterfalls and hidden coves on a private guided kayak or canoe trip desiged around your group.

    Explore Private Tours
  • A tent set up on a grassy hillside during sunset with mountains in the background.

    Okefenokee Adventures

    Guided kayak and canoe tours through the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, including half-day, full-day, and overnight trips

    Explore Okefenokee Tours
  • Multiple colorful kayaks, including yellow, orange, and green, are lined up on grass and dirt, with paddles resting on top of some kayaks.

    Paddle Club

    Join a community of paddlers and discover new waterways throughout Georgia

    Learn About Our Paddle Club

THE DRIFTWOOD DIFFERENCE

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What to Expect on a Driftwood Adventure

We do more than hand you a kayak and point you towards the water. Every Driftwood experience combines guidance, local knowledge, and time to slow down and truly explore.

Learn as you paddle

Build confidence with friendly instruction and practical paddling tips.

Discover what others miss

Spot wildlife, hear local stories, and explore places you may never find alone.

Enjoy the experience

We handle the equipment, route, and planning so you can be present on the water.

“

The scenery is fantastic, and Matt and Amanda were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable guides. I'd paddle with them again!

— Thomas M.

Meet Our Guides

EXPLORE GEORGIA’S WATERWAYS

Find Your Next Adventure

From peaceful beginner lakes to blackwater swamps and overnight expeditions, every destination offers a completely different experience.

Two people kayaking on a lake during sunset with colorful sky and clouds.

FEATURED DESTINATION

Lake Acworth

Perfect for beginners and locals alike. Calm waters with no motorized boats, abundant wildlife, lotus blooms in summer and unforgettable sunsets.

Located conveniently less than an hour from downtown Atlanta.

BEGINNER FRIENDLY

WILDLIFE SPOTTING

SUNSET TOURS

“

I had a great experience with Driftwood Paddling Tours on Lake Acworth…The pace was relaxed and the lake was beautiful!

— Autumn E.

EXPLORE LAKE ACWORTH KAYAKING
A lake surrounded by trees under a blue sky with white clouds.

Carters Lake

Crystal clear water, mountain scenery, and a short paddle to beautiful waterfalls.

Explore Carters Lake
A river flowing through a lush green landscape with trees and Spanish moss hanging from the branches, under a clear blue sky.

Okefenokee

Georgia’s wild side. Paddle through ancient cypress forests and blackwater channels full of wildlife and wonder.

Explore the Swamp
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Lake Allatoona

Miles of shoreline, hidden coves, and waterfall destinations that make for an epic day on the water.

Explore Allatoona

The best adventures aren’t measured in miles, but in moments you’ll never forget.

MEET YOUR GUIDES

We’re Matt & Amanda.

GUIDES. ADVENTURERS. NATURE LOVERS.

A man and woman smiling and posing by a waterfall in a forest.

We created Driftwood to help people enjoy the joy of paddling with confidence.

Read Our Story

We created Driftwood because we believe the outdoors should feel welcoming to everyone.

Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or your hundredth, our goal is simple: help you feel confident, slow down, notice the little things, and leave with stories worth telling.

Some people remember the paddle. We hope you remember the feeling.

- Matt & Amanda

Adventures worth talking about.

  • Scenic landscape of mountains, a lake, and rolling hills under a cloudy sky

    "I went on a half day kayak trip with Driftwood Paddling to the Okefenokee... It was an awesome day and I will definitely be joining Driftwood on more paddling trips next year."

    — Kenny J.

  • Mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks in the background and a modern building on a hill in the foreground.

    "I had a great time kayaking on Lake Acworth with Driftwood Paddling...(Matt & Amanda) were a lot of fun and we all had a great time! Can't wait for another adventure..."

    — Lori W.

  • Modern wooden house with large glass window set in a mountainous landscape with brown and green hills.

    The scenery is fantastic, and Matt and Amanda were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable guides. I'd paddle with them again!

    — Thomas M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions?

We're happy to help. When you reach out, you'll be talking directly with Amanda or Matt—not a call center. We'd love to help you find the right adventure.

Email us at info@driftwoodpaddling.com

or

Call/Text us here!

  • Absolutely. Most of our guests are first-time paddlers. We provide all the equipment, a safety briefing, and instruction before we launch so you can feel comfortable and confident on the water.

  • No. Every guided tour includes a kayak or canoe, paddle, life jacket, and other essential gear. Just bring water, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure.

  • We guide paddling adventures throughout Georgia, including Lake Acworth, Carters Lake, Lake Allatoona, and the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. Each destination offers a unique experience, from peaceful beginner-friendly lakes to unforgettable swamp expeditions.

  • Wear comfortable clothing that can get a little wet and closed-toe shoes or secure sandals. We also recommend sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.

  • Safety always comes first. Light rain doesn't necessarily cancel a tour, but thunderstorms, lightning, or unsafe conditions may require us to reschedule or issue a refund.

  • Most guided tours last between 2 and 6 hours depending on the location. We also offer overnight expeditions in the Okefenokee for those looking for a deeper wilderness experience.

  • Yes! Many of our tours are family friendly. Minimum age requirements vary by trip, so check the individual tour page or contact us if you're unsure which adventure is the best fit.scription

  • Our goal is to redesign traditional kayak & canoe rentals. We specialize in professionally guided kayaking and canoe experiences throughout Georgia. Every kayak & canoe rental trip includes your kayak or canoe, paddle, life jacket, instruction, and a knowledgeable guide.

  • Dogs are welcome on select private tours if they're comfortable around water and people. Because some trips involve wildlife, overnight camping, or group experiences, pets aren't permitted on every adventure. Contact us before booking, and we'll help you choose the best option.

  • Yes! We offer private tours for couples, families, friend groups, corporate outings, and anyone looking for a personalized paddling experience. If you don't see the date or location you're looking for, just reach out.

  • We're more than a kayak rental. Every tour is led by experienced guides who love sharing Georgia's waterways, wildlife, and hidden places. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle, your first kayaking experience, or an unforgettable adventure, we're here to help you discover the outdoors with confidence.

  • For a scheduled beginner experience, book our Learn to Kayak class at Lake Acworth. For a private guided paddle, choose a private day adventure and select your preferred location including Lake Acworth, Lake Allatoona, or Carters Lake. Other locations may be available by request just give us a call or text at 770-383-1035.

Ready to get out on the water?

Whether you’re trying paddling for the first time or planning your next expedition, we’d love to paddle with you.

Most dates fill weeks in advance. reserve your spot today!

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