Staten Island’s Kayak Day Paddles in Midland Beach

Midland Beach splashed last night with Staten Island’s Kayak Day, rowing NYC’s spring waves. Guide Tariq Evans led 40 through the bay, a $15 paddle fest at dusk. It’s borough oars—kayaks lent, pure SI vibe. A kid splashed wild; a pro glided smooth. ‘Staten rows—this is it,’ Evans says, steering strokes. The water turned adventure.

The day’s fresh—March 25’s kickoff, it tripled since RSVPs, packing shores by 3 p.m. Evans, a Tottenville paddler; last night’s crowd hit max—waves rolled. A latecomer nabbed a boat; seals popped—NYC grit glowed. Tips hit $30—paddles ruled. #SIKayak trended; Bronx wants a splash.

Some griped—’Too cold,’ shivered a newbie, dodging spray. Tide tugged—oars slipped; grit held. A rival’s pitching a St. George row, splitting boats. Still, 50 stayed—water reigned. Midland’s never paddled so bold.

Evans hints at a monthly run, maybe a night paddle if spring bites. ‘NYC’s coast—this rides it,’ he says, hauling kayaks. The day’s a Staten win—grit meets glide. It’s a water rush; catch the next. Bring a towel—waves soak.