Seattle Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals on Lake Union
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Discover Seattle From a New Perspective
Kayak and paddleboard rentals on Lake Union offer an easy, approachable way to explore Seattle from the water. Paddle past the Seattle skyline, Gas Works Park, and the floating homes and houseboats that make Lake Union famous.
Our rentals include top-quality equipment, friendly guidance and a comfortable 90-minute minimum.
This gives you enough time to reach the best scenery and enjoy your paddle without feeling rushed.
Walk-ins welcome most times
Open year-round for rentals weather permitting
Why paddle Lake Union?
Lake Union offers some of the most approachable urban kayaking in Seattle, with calm water, wide open views, and iconic scenery in every direction. From floating homes and historic houseboats to skyline views and seaplanes taking off overhead, it’s a uniquely Northwest experience that’s easy to enjoy at your own pace.
Kayak and Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Rental Rates
90 minutes included
Rental Time
Single Kayak
Double Kayak
Triple Kayak
Paddleboard (SUP)
90 minutes
$36
$46
$54
$38
2 hours
$48
$62
$72
$50
3 hours
$72
$94
$108
$74
Hourly rate after 90 minutes
$24/hour
$32/hour
$36/hour
$24/hour
Prices do not include sales tax.
Additional time is pro-rated every 5 minutes after the first 90 minutes
New lower 90 minute price
Our 90-minute minimum gives you more time to explore Gas Works, Portage Bay and Skyline Views without watching the clock.
More time on the water means a better experience and better value.
Included with Every Rental
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Orientation and basic instruction as needed. We'll help you to be comfortable with the basics of stopping, turning and moving forwards.
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We offer premium Delta and Old Town kayaks and will help fit you to the right kayak, including rudder-equipped boats if you have a preference.
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Dock assistance launching & landing.
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Free dry bags for use and we can store belongings inside the shop for you.
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A 90-minute minimum designed for a safer, more relaxed experience.
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Rentals are weather- and wind-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable for safe paddling, we’ll let you know before you head out. You can always check current status on our Are We Renting? page.
We'll fit you to a kayak or SUP based on size and ability. We offer sit-inside kayaks for nearly any size and ability level, and have a sit-on-top double and single kayak available upon request.
Paddle Seattle from the Heart of Lake Union
We’re located on the west side of Lake Union, close to South Lake Union, Fremont, Queen Anne, Wallingford, Capitol Hill, Eastlake, and the University of Washington.
Our docks are within an easy 20-minute paddle of the Fremont Bridge and South Lake Union.
More Rental Info
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The last rental leaves 90 minutes before closing or sunset and must be returned by that time.
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Only basic paddling skills are required, such as knowing how to stop and turn. We’re happy to help.
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The last reservation can be made up to 2 hours before closing.
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Paddlers under 18 must paddle with a parent or legal guardian. Paddlers under 16 must paddle in a double or triple kayak with an adult.
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Pet friendly. Dogs must be well-behaved and able to sit comfortably in a kayak or on a SUP.
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All paddlers must complete a waiver before heading out on the water.
What to Know Before You Paddle
Wear a lifejacket! In general dress for the weather, and wear clothes you don't mind getting wet On colder days you are welcome to wear a paddle jacket and/or wetsuit at no charge Make eye contact with other boaters/sea planes and be aware Be able to find your way back from the water (use the QR codes on equipment) Please no alcohol or other drugs (we can keep 'em cold for you) Our kayaks are not allowed through the Ballard Locks
