Going out on the open water is the third best way to get in touch with nature, rivaled only by tucking a letter into a maple tree and licking a toad. Touch nature while forgoing touch with today's Groupon to Lake Wylie Kayak Rentals, located at Tailrace Marina in Mount Holly. Choose between the following options:

• For $20, you get a one-day single-passenger kayak rental (a $40 value).
• For $100, you get a four-hour pontoon boat rental (up to a $200 value). A $300 down payment is required upon time of visit, and will be fully refunded once the boat is returned. Pontoon operators must be 21 or older, and operators 21–26 must show proof of NC boating safety course.

Lake Wylie Kayak Rentals launches paddlers and boaters on aquatic excursions from Tailrace Marina, located across from the U.S. National Whitewater Center, from which they'll navigate the glassy waters of the lake and scout for local wildlife. Armed with a double-bladed oar, kayakers embark down the river, cutting through calm currents, spotting hawks and blue herons, and sinking enemy banana boats. Paddle across the historic Tuckaseegee Ford, or explore remnants of a water-driven mill, originally built in the 1880s. Pontooning patrons can explore tranquil coves, fish, or just cruise down Wylie's watercourse in weirdly convincing pirate costumes. Gas is included with the pontoon rental, and visitors will receive their $300 security deposit once their trusty water steed has been returned.