Herbert Hoover won Americans’ hearts and votes when he promised a college-educated chicken in every pot and a kayak in every garage. Get a taste of the American dream with today's Groupon: for $25, you get a basics of kayaking class (a $45 value) or a kayak nature tour (up to a $40 value) from BayCreek Paddling Center. Your Groupon is valid for one year but must be redeemed during kayak season, which takes place between June 1 and September 30.

For more than 15 years, the cordial paddle mongers at BayCreek Paddling Center have spread the gospel of kayak. If you opt to sharpen your strokes during the two-hour basics of kayaking course, a friendly staff member will run through the basic equipment and conditions: comfortably fitting into and boarding your kayak, proper safety precautions, how to grip your manual propeller, and effective paddle strokes. If you're looking to get more in tune with your environment, the kayak nature tour puts the gorgeous and historic Irondequoit Creek wetlands on full display. After some basic safety pointers and paddle techniques, you'll navigate the Dansville River, learning about its glacial beginnings and formation, former Seneca Indian inhabitants, and misguided Cubist period. Meanwhile, the river’s natural neighborhood (geese, muskrats, beavers, deer, trout, great blue herons, Ted Danson, etc.) gathers on the banks to play poker and practice cartwheels.

Kayak nature tours take place Saturdays at 9:30 a.m., and basics classes take place Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. You must call ahead to reserve a spot on the water.

Reviews

Google Mappers and four Insider Pagers give BayCreek Paddling Center an average of four stars:

• This is a cute place to kayak or rent boats. It provides a nice time for a family or even for someone looking for some peaceful alone time on the water. They have nice staff that help you learn what you're doing or stay out of your way if you already know. – Chris T., Insider Pages
• I went yesterday and rented a kayak for the first time. The staff was supportive, informative, and cooperative. I've kayaked before, but my roommate never has and they were great about teaching her the basics and not talking down to me. It was beautiful in the wetlands with deer, blue herons, turtles, muskrats, we even saw baby swans! I'll definitely go back! – Kadie, Google Maps
• The people at Baycreek are friendly and knowledgeable. They have the best boats, both rentals and for sale. I have taken lessons there and I bought my boat there. Their dock on the creek is easy for beginners and for experienced boaters alike, and it's an easy paddle into the bay or down the creek. – Vicki, Google Maps