LL Bean Outdoor Discovery School

I recently discovered the L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery School in New Rochelle and had no idea such great local activities existed right here in Westchester! I signed up for several kayaking classes—including the beginners course, fundamentals, and sunset kayak tour—and each one exceeded my expectations. The sunset kayak was definitely a highlight for me! The instructors I worked with (Bob, Megan, and Lydia) were incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and focused on safety, which made me feel completely at ease getting back on the water.

Beyond the basics, I learned rescue techniques, gear recommendations, and even got some fascinating insight into the area’s history and local wildlife. The program also offers paddle boarding, fly fishing, hiking, archery, and more—all at an affordable price and without needing to buy your own equipment. It’s flexible too; you can even customize your experience based on your interests.

Whether you’re local or coming from NYC (just a 45-minute drive), I highly recommend checking them out. It’s a fantastic way to explore the outdoors and support an accessible, community-centered program. Many courses are open to ages 8 and up, making it a great option for families as well!

Kayaking and archery classes are amazing! Instructor Bob is so knowledgable, is very welcoming, and really shares his enthusiasm and info with participants. Absolutely recommend! Find Bob as your guide

Such a great program in New Rochelle for kayaking, standup paddleboarding, archery, and more! The instructors are awesome. Not enough people know about this program.

Had an amazing time at the archery course on Sunday! The instructor was so helpful, and you get so much practice. Really great way to spend our day outdoors!

LL Bean offers wonderful classes where you can go and learn how to improve your skills kayaking or using a paddle board. They have skilled teachers who Lionel to help students of all ages gain confidence on the water. A few weeks ago I visited the all Bean store at Ridge Hill and I was shop for a kayak. Gabe , my salesperson suggested that I might enjoy taking one of their workshops that they offer in New Rochelle at Five Island Park. I register for one of their Discovery School classes and to my surprise, Gave was one of the instructors, along with Mark who together took us out along with about 15 other participants who seemed to range in ages from 15 to 75! I’m now ready to buy a kayak but I’m also looking forward to returning to take some more advanced kayaking and paddle board classes! I would have taken more photos of our instructors and being in the kayaks but we weee encouraged not to bring our ones with us in the water!