Long Beach Kayak & Adventure

Lawyers often earn nicknames based on their tenacity in court, but Michael Bergman more likely got his from cramming a lifejacket into his briefcase. Known as “Kayak Mike,” the attorney has kayaked for more than 20 years, training at the Philadelphia Canoe Club—one of the country’s oldest clubs—and organizing one of Long Island’s largest kayaking clubs with more than 500 members. He combines this experience and his entrepreneurial spirit through Long Beach Kayak & Adventure. He and his team of guides lead kayak tours along the shores of Long Beach and Island Park to destinations such as Coyote Restaurant & Waterfront Lounge and Paddy McGee’s Fish House & Bar, where paddlers enjoy perks from VIP seating to food and drink specials. On each trip, they adhere to a set of safety guidelines, such as don’t eat the lifejackets. They also rent kayaks by the hour or by the day.