-- Last Updated: Feb-02-13 10:04 AM EST --
Search the Meetup site. If what you want is not there, start one yourself. It works. You can set your own criteria.
Example of thriving free beginners included kayaking group quickly advancing as instruction and pool practices are organized:
http://www.meetup.com/Kayak-Portland/
Meetup is good software for group outings.
I solved the nobody-available by training a water rescue buddy.