Want in on the secret to a perfect paddling escape for two? Make sure you’re both on the same page about the goals of your getaway well before embarking on your float. Agreeing about your key trip takeaways in advance will help ensure that you both have a wonderful time.

Once you’ve determined what the two of you are in the mood for, use the suggestions below to narrow down your options and find a trip that intrigues you both.

The On-The-Water Mood:
Cool, Calm, and Collected

If you’re looking for a relaxing paddling escape, opt for a float that’s on the calm, cool and collected side of the equation. This summer, there is a wide range of chilled-out paddling pursuits in Hamilton Halton Brant:

  • Ontario Staycation Adventure’s Mindful Paddle and Floating Meditation experience on Lake Ontario is a perfect class for those who are feeling unsure about climbing on a stand-up paddleboard for the first time.
  • Grand Experiences’ self-guided Grand River Rafting and Tubing adventure from Paris to Brant Park is another great option.
  • Tasty Road Trips’ self-guided Paddle & Taste Adventure in Paris includes a two-hour Grand River paddle, a local lunch and a self-guided walking experience exploring downtown Paris with tasty food and drink samples to enjoy along the way.
  • Grand Experiences’ four-hour guided Grand River Experience is an excellent choice for those who would like the assistance of an expert guide.
  • For those preferring a camping adventure, Grand Experiences’ self-guided overnight Grand River canoe or kayak trip includes your canoe or kayak, a campsite at Brant Park Conservation Area, and optional camping gear like a tent, stove, cookware, and lantern.

The On-The-Water Mood:
Social and Fun

If you’re both social butterflies who enjoy spending leisure time with others, consider joining in the fun of paddling as a pack. After your paddle, you can take some time for just the two of you with a nice meal out. Consider these best-bet group paddling experiences:

  • Grand Experiences’ Grand Voyageur experience is a four-hour guided trip down the Grand River in a 12-passenger Voyager canoe. The minimum size for the group is six people. Your expert guide will share stories and legends as you float down the river, and you’ll make a mid-trip stop to explore the shoreline that is home to a rare Carolinian forest.
  • Grand River Rafting’s “The Beast” is a supersized paddle board that can accommodate up to eight people. Available at Brantford’s Brant Park, your rental includes the board, paddles, lifejackets, and a safety kit.

The On-The-Water Mood:
Amazing Adrenalin Rush

If you’re both looking for a paddling pursuit that gets your hearts pounding, consider timing your trip after a heavy summer rainfall, which turns the Nith River into a wild white-water playground. Grand River Rafting’s Nith River White Water trip is a three- to four-hour guided trip showcasing some of the best white water splash in Southern Ontario.


Make Some Post-Paddle Plans

Once you’ve determined the paddling activity that floats your boat, choose a place to stay and some restaurants you’d like to try while you’re in the area.

If your paddling activity takes you to Burlington, excellent hotel options close to the lakeshore include The Pearle Hotel and Spa and Waterfront Hotel Burlington. Burlington’s outstanding collection of waterfront restaurants offers plenty of choice for a post-paddle meal. Try Spencer’s At The Waterfront, Beaver and Bulldog, or The Express Restaurant.

If you land on the Grand for your paddling escape, great local hotels include Arlington Hotel in Paris and Hampton Inn and Suites in Brantford. In Paris, pair your paddle with a meal at Stillwaters, 2 Rivers, or Cobblestone Public House. Tasty Brantford restaurant options include Sociable Kitchen + Tavern and Zander’s Fire Grill and Brew Lounge.


This summer, Travel True in Hamilton Halton Brant and discover the pure pleasure of creating new memories with your favourite people. From incredible natural landscapes for outdoor adventures, like the Niagara EscarpmentGrand River and scenic Lake Ontario shorelines, to fascinating sites that celebrate our country’s past, fun summer festivals and events, and immersive experiences and tours that put you in the heart of all the action, discover the perfect backdrop for unforgettable summer fun.

Want more ideas for summer day trips and stay trips like this delivered straight to your inbox? Be sure to subscribe

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Experiences & Tours View All >>

Now thru September 28

Wake Up the Wild

African Lion Safari

1386 Cooper Road, Hamilton, ON, N1R 5S2

Available on select dates from Jun to Sept, 2025. Tour subject to availability. Advanced reservations...

Now thru December 31

Introductory Flight Lesson

Brantford Flight Centre

110 Aviation Ave. Brantford, ON N3T 5L7, Canada

Dates: All year round Cost: $152.55 including HST

Now thru December 31

Private Date Night Painting for 2

studio k2

The Cotton Factory, DyeWorks Building, 9 Landsdowne Avenue, Hamilton

Whenever Date Night is! Event Price: $165.00 + hst per couple.

Now thru December 31

All Natural Skincare Workshop

Backed By Bees

6214 Appleby Line, Burlington, Ontario L7M 0P7

Dates and Times: March 1st - 1:30pm to 3:30pm March 20th - 7:00pm to 9:00pm

Now thru September 13

The Bee Encounter Experience

Backed By Bees

6214 Appleby Line, Burlington, Ontario L7M 0P7

Dates: Various Dates from Jun 21st to Sept 13th Times: 10:00am, 11:30am or 1:00pm Price:...

Now thru June 29

David Collier’s Family Daze

Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant

20 Ava Road, Brantford, ON, N3T 5G9

Now thru August 21

Behind the Scenes Tour

658 Catharine St N, Hamilton, ON L8L 8K4

Dates & Time: June 19th, July 17th, and August 21st from 5:30pm - 7:00pm Cost:...

July 5 - September 20

Bee Beard Experience

Backed By Bees

6214 Appleby Line, Burlington, Ontario L7M 0P7

Dates: Jul 5th, Aug 2nd, Sep 20th Time: 1:00pm Price: $249.99

Now thru November 4

Rural Routes and River Retreat

Woodstock and Paris, ON

Dates: The 3-day package is available Sunday to Tuesday on select dates May 4 through...

September 28

Cholera and Industrial Heritage Cemetery Tour

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology – National Historic Site

The Hamilton Cemetery, 777 York Blvd., Hamilton

Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Cost: FREE Ages: All

Now thru September 1

Hamiltonian Tour Boat

Hamilton Waterfront – Pier 8

47 Discovery Drive, Hamilton, ON L8L 8K4

Open Weekends Only until June 29th. Daily from June 29th to September 2nd. Price (includes...

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