Bourne’s Beautiful Buttermilk Bay is the Perfect Escape to Kayak Paradise
If Heaven was a place on Earth, you could find it just down the road in Bourne.
Right on the Wareham line is a body of water called Buttermilk Bay where you can float your worries away. As an avid kayaker, I'm always looking for new spots to launch from and I just discovered the jackpot.
Half of it surrounds Wareham, while the other half borders the town of Bourne.
The quaint Bay is small but just right for beginners alike. The current is slow and the only thing disturbing the glass water are the wakes from passing boats. A good friend of mine, Kyle Costa, once recommended this magical place and he couldn't be any more spot on. The launch is easy, the views are beautiful and the water is as warm as a bathtub. Add a hot summer day and prepare to live your best life in the slow lane.
The ride from New Bedford to the launch point is approximately 29 minutes and 100% worth the trek. Your best bet is to type 27 Gardinier Ave into your GPS, which will take you over to Electric Avenue Beach. After heading north from the Route 28 rotary at the Wareham/Bourne town line, take the second left onto Electric Avenue. You'll need a sticker to park in the beach parking lot, but there is free street parking just feet away from the shoreline.
You'll notice that directly across from the beach area is a tiki restaurant called Captain Al's Tiki Bar. There's a tiny sandy patch perfect for kayaks, canoes, and jet skis right by the establishment where you can park and go eat/drink. It's a nice little break to grab some fried seafood or a refreshing mudslide before returning to the launch site.
While you're out on the Bay, avoid the middle if possible as it's a designated channel for boats. Not to worry, they pass by slowly to avoid wakes. Your best bet is to start your adventure by heading to the right of the launch and following the coastline around the Bay until you end up at Captain Al's. The waterfront houses are a dream and the sandy shoreline is a great way to stop for a stretch or picnic break (as long as it's not on someone's private property). Buzzard's Bay Coalition put together a convenient map to show you the ropes of Buttermilk Bay.
Keep in mind that there is no shade or cover to hide from the exposed sun, so be sure to lather up with sunscreen repeatedly to avoid burning. Like any other kayak adventure, be sure to bring proper hydration (Gatorade, water, etc.) and consume it periodically throughout your trip. Other than that, let your feet soak in the warm waters and enjoy the beauty and peace of Buttermilk Bay. You won't regret it.