That paddling session needn't mean venturing way out of town. You can float your boat much closer to home, with a jaunt along our very own Yarra. For a chance to see the city sights from an entirely different angle, try a leisurely kayak.

Holidaying along the mighty Murray River has become synonymous with aquatic adventures. But you don't necessarily need an overnight stay to enjoy its scenic, paddle-friendly waters. 

Literally surrounded by sparkling water, the Mornington Peninsula has canoeing and kayaking options on tap. All that's left is to decide is which bit of gorgeous coastline you're in the mood to paddle through today. 

A renowned haven for swimmers, paddlers and boaters, Barwon Heads sits an easy 90-minute drive from the Melbourne CBD, offering a serene aquatic playground at the mouth of the Barwon River. 

For a scenic paddle with a high chance of platypus sightings, take a spin on Lake Elizabeth, deep within The Otways. A favourite aquatic playground along the Barwon River, this one's loved by canoers and billed monotremes alike.

A 90-minute drive from Melbourne in the heart of Ballarat, Lake Wendouree offers up 238 hectares of primo paddling space, for water enthusiasts of all skill levels. And, having hosted the rowing events of the 1956 Olympics, it's also got quite the reputation. 

Featuring almost 1400 hectares of mountain bike trails, walking tracks and bushy parkland, Lysterfield Park is brimming with opportunities for outdoor adventuring. 

A much-loved water sports destination that hosts regular kayaking championships throughout the year, the inviting waters of Lake Nagambie are guaranteed to bring out your inner paddler.