Salem Willows

To say we're happiest at the Willows is no exaggeration. (And it's not just because of the popcorn , though that doesn't hurt.) Designated a public park in 1858 and turned into an amusement park in 1880, this stunning ocean-side park featured boat slides, rollerskating rinks, and a casino. In its hay day, the park drew as many as 10,000 visitors, many drawn by famous singers such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Louis Armstrong. Today, the Willows is still a charming, beautiful ocean-side park, offering food, entertainment, and, of course, paddling, to visitors from all over Massachusetts and beyond.

Our Salem location hosts some of our favorite paddling routes. From the sheltered cove where we launch, you can paddle less than a mile to get to Fort Pickering Light on Winter Island. Along the way you’ll paddle along the beautiful coastline of Juniper Point, once a series of farms and seaside camps, but now home to quintessential New England coastal homes. On a high tide, tuck into Juniper Cove for an easy float, or stop at Waikiki Beach on Winter Island for a rest and a swim. (Just make sure you land far away from the swimming area).

Or, you can head west into Beverly Harbor, where a short paddle can take you under the Beverly/Salem bridge, or deep into Collins Cove, which is a perfect place to dip in the water, have a floating lunch or snack- wait, did we mention the popcorn?-or paddle along a rocky and wooded coastline whose pre-settlement essence endures.

No matter which route you choose, our knowledgeable staff will help you determine the best route to take based on the day’s conditions, ensuring that your time on the water will be both safe and fun!