Curated Guided Paddle Experiences
Private, beginner-friendly paddle adventures personally hosted by Maria.
My greatest joy is helping people discover places, experiences and even confidence they may never have imagined possible.
🐟 SALMON RUN SEASON IS HERE!
Experience one of Burlington’s most incredible seasonal wildlife events from the water.
Join me for a relaxed, family-friendly Salmon Run Wildlife Paddle as we explore the creek, watch for migrating salmon and discover the other wildlife we meet along the way.
Come on your own, bring a friend or bring the family — you no longer need your own group to join.
Public Salmon Run Paddle Dates
Saturday, Sept. 19 • 9:30 AM
Sunday, Sept. 27 • 9:30 AM
Saturday, Oct. 3 • 9:30 AM
Sunday, Oct. 11 • 9:30 AM — Thanksgiving Weekend
$150 per person — OSA paddleboard package included
$79 per person — Bring Your Own Paddlecraft
Small groups • Advance booking required
🐟 Salmon and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Every paddle is different — and that’s part of the adventure.
Want the experience just for your people?
Private Salmon Run Wildlife Paddles are also booking throughout September and October.
👯 Gather Your People. I’ll take care of the rest.
🌿 More Than a Paddle. An Invitation to Explore.
Looking for a memorable way to experience Burlington from the water?
Hi, I’m Maria.
For more than 13 years I’ve been helping people discover the confidence, freedom and joy that come from trying something new. Whether it’s your very first time on a paddleboard, a celebration with family, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, my goal is to help you feel welcomed, supported and inspired from the moment we meet.
Ontario Staycation Adventures was created for people who want more than simply renting equipment. Together we’ll explore beautiful waterways, discover local wildlife, share stories and create memories that last long after the paddle is over.
Most of my guests are complete beginners. You don’t need previous experience—just a willingness to say yes to something new.
What Makes These Experiences Different?
Choose Your Experience
🌿 Wildlife & Creek Explorer
Discover hidden waterways, local wildlife, and fascinating stories while enjoying a relaxed guided paddle. (Salmon Run September-October)
❤️ Couples Escape
Designed for connection, conversation, and unforgettable time together on the water.
👨👩👧👦 Family Adventure
A relaxed, beginner-friendly experience perfect for visiting families, multi-generational groups and anyone looking to unplug and connect.
🌅 Sunrise & Sunset Experiences
Experience the magic of calm water, golden light, and Ontario’s most beautiful paddling hours.
🎉 Celebration Paddles
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, bachelorettes, or simply celebrating life with friends.
✨ Custom Curated Experiences
Looking for something unique? Let’s create a private experience designed around your interests, whether it’s photography, birdwatching, wellness, exploration, or a special celebration.
Included
✔ Premium inflatable paddleboard rental
✔ Paddle
✔ PFD
✔ Safety orientation
✔ Guided experience
✔ Local stories
✔ Photos during your experience
✔ Personalized recommendations after your paddle
2020
Meet Your Guide
Hi, I’m Maria.
For over 13 years, I’ve had the privilege of introducing thousands of guests to the joy of paddleboarding—here in Ontario and around the world. Whether someone is stepping onto a board for the very first time or looking to build confidence and refine their skills, I love helping people discover just how rewarding time on the water can be.
Ontario’s waterways have incredible stories to tell. From peaceful creeks and thriving wildlife to hidden corners that many people never experience, every outing offers an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and see familiar places from a completely different perspective.
My goal isn’t simply to take you paddling. It’s to create an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve left the water. Every adventure is thoughtfully planned, personally guided, and tailored to your group’s interests, pace, and comfort level—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, exploring with family, enjoying a unique date, or simply looking for a memorable day outdoors.
I look forward to welcoming you on the water.
📍 Current Featured Destinations
Destinations to choose from:
Bronte Creek (Oakville)
Sixteen Mile Creek (Oakville)
Have somewhere else in mind? Call me to discuss.
🌊 What to Expect
From the moment we meet, my goal is to help you feel relaxed, welcomed and excited for the adventure ahead. We’ll begin with a friendly introduction to the equipment and a brief safety orientation before taking a little time to practise and build your confidence on calm water.
Once we’re underway, there’s no rush. Every experience unfolds at a comfortable pace, allowing plenty of time to explore, take in the scenery and simply enjoy being on the water. Depending on the adventure you’ve chosen, we may paddle peaceful creeks, explore Burlington’s beautiful shoreline, search for turtles, swans and herons, enjoy a spectacular sunset, or celebrate a special occasion with the people you’re sharing it with.
Along the way, I’ll share local stories, point out wildlife, capture photos so you can stay present in the moment, and adapt the experience to your group’s interests and comfort level.
No two adventures are exactly alike—and that’s part of what makes Ontario Staycation Adventures so special.
💙 Come as you are. Leave with wonderful memories, new confidence and a fresh appreciation for Burlington’s incredible waterfront.
Looking to Learn?
New to paddleboarding or want to build your confidence on the water?
My private paddleboard lessons have helped thousands of people safely discover the sport over the past 13 years. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, I’d love to help you enjoy the water with confidence.
Looking to build your skills?
My Women on the Water series are designed specifically for beginners to intermediate paddlers who want to gain confidence and enjoy the freedom of exploring on their own.
Latest News
- Paddle Boarding is for Everyone! Classes for 50+June 18, 2025 - 6:28 pm
Summer Staycation Greatness begins for Summer 2025May 14, 2025 - 11:38 am
90 sleeps until Summer Staycation 2025February 15, 2025 - 3:17 pm
