Spring is here and the water is calling. There’s nothing better than to be out on a boat in the spring and summer summer, whether the boat is a kayak, a pontoon, a pedal boat or something in between.
But what if you don’t own a boat?
There are still several opportunities for enjoying a float or a paddle on a river or a lake. Read on for some places where you can rent a boat or sign up for a guided tour on the water. The price varies and so does the exertion level required for the experience. Whether you want to relax, work out, or party, there’s a way to enjoy the water this summer.
We’re including opportunities that are within about a hour and fifteen minutes from Charlotte, but several are right here.
Do you know of other great ways to get on the water this summer? Let us know! We might add to this article.
Also, if you want your own kayak but you don’t want to spend a lot of money, consider an inflatable kayak. There are some for under $100! Another advantage is that you don’t need a lot of space in or on your vehicle to transport it. (The downside is, well, you need to inflate it.) Jump to the end of this article for some inflatable kayaks.
You might also be interested in where to swim in the Charlotte area.
Mecklenburg County Nature Preserves
Two of Mecklenburg County’s Nature Preserves have access to lakes. Latta Nature Preserve is the gateway to Mountain Island Lake, and McDowell Nature Preserve accesses Lake Wylie. Both Latta and McDowell offer guided kayaking tours, at $20 ($24 for non Mecklenburg County residents.)
Look at the schedule for kayak activities, and register, here.
- Latta Nature Center and Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville
- McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, 15222 South York Road, Charlotte
In addition, there are sometimes kayaking opportunities at Colonel Francis Beatty Park in Matthews. Those activities will also show up in the above search.
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Anne Springs Close Greenway offers kayak, tandem kayak, and stand-up paddleboarding rentals on Saturdays and Sundays. The cost for two hours is $16 for non-members, and 50% off for Anne Springs Close Greenway members. Please note that the Greenway is open to only members on the weekends, unless you have a boat rental. Reservations are required. Follow the above link to make your reservation.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
The Whitewater Center offers flatwater kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the Catawba River and Long Creek. For $39 you can have access to both kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding all day. The fee includes a personal flotation device. Tandem kayaks are available, but require two activity passes. Parking is $12.
U.S. Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte
Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation
Catawba Riverkeeper offers kayaking experiences from two locations. The cost is $25 per kayak rental, or $20 for residents of Belmont, Cramerton, Lowell or McAdenville.
- Confluence, 117 Center Street, Cramerton, NC
- The Boathouse, 115 Willow Drive, McAdenville, NC
The organization also offers many guided kayak tours, including full moon paddles, eco tours and more.
Cane Creek Park
Cane Creek Park in Waxhaw provides a wide variety of boating experiences with a low price. This park boasts a 350-acre lake with a swim beach. Jon boats, canoes and kayaks are all available for rental for just $4/hour. Or rent a pedal boat for just $2 for 30 minutes. You can also buy a day pass for $5, and that includes swimming, mini golf and pedal boats. Veterans with honorable status receive a 50% discount. Entrance to Cane Creek Park is $4 per vehicle. Here’s the rate sheet for all that Cane Creek offers.
Cane Creek Park, 5213 Harkey Road, Waxhaw
Dave’s Paddleboats
Paddleboats are available at Shoppes at University Place. They can accommodate two adults, plus one small child. The cost is $16 for 30 minutes. From April to September there are hours in the evenings during the week, and on days and nights Saturdays and Sundays. From October to March, hours are just Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Shoppes at University Place, 8929 JM Keynes Drive, Charlotte
Lake Fisher
Interested in fishing? Lake Fisher, which is operated by the City of Concord Parks and Recreation, rents 14-foot and 15-foot jon boats. Personal flotation devices and oars are included in the rental fee, which is:
City of Concord Residents
- Children under 12 (must be accompanied by an adult): Free
- Youth (12-16): $4
- Adults (17-59): $5
- Seniors (60+): $4
Non-Residents
- Children under 12 (must be accompanied by an adult): Free
- Youth (12-16): $8
- Adults (17-59): $10
- Seniors (60+): $8
You need to bring your own fishing equipment and tackle. You may also bring an outboard motor up to 10 HP, fuel, trolling motor and/or marine batteries, if you’d like. You need a North Carolina fishing license.
Lake Fisher, 5099 Lake Fisher Road, Kannapolis
Morrow Mountain State Park
Morrow Mountain State Park provides access to Lake Tillery, as well as a beautiful view from the top of the mountain. You can rent a kayak or canoe from the boathouse on the weekend. The cost is $10 per hour. Rentals are available first-come, first-served until they run out of personal flotation devices. If you bring your own U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, you can use that. Morrow Mountain State Park is just an hour and fifteen minutes from Charlotte.
Morrow Mountain State Park, 49104 Morrow Mountain Road, Albemarle
Rent a Pontoon Boat
There are many outfitters on Lake Norman and Lake Wylie that rent pontoon boats. In some cases the rental comes with a captain and in some cases you are the captain. The price varies, but generally up to ten people can be aboard, so if everyone chips in, it becomes more affordable. Also, always check Groupon. Just go to Groupon and search for “boat.” Jet ski rentals and ski boats are also available for rental. (Please note that if you make a purchase on Groupon through the above link that Charlotte on the Cheap will earn a small commission.)
Boat Sharing
Boatsetter is a boat-sharing program (think airbnb, but for boats.) Learn more here. Another boat sharing platform is GetMyBoat.
Tailrace Marina
Another option, besides the U.S. Whitewater Center, for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Catawba River, is Tailrace Marina. Two-hour rentals are available for single kayaks ($30), double kayaks ($40) and stand-up paddleboards ($30.) One thing that could make this a good option is that they offer season passes for $180. Tailrace Marina also rents pontoon boats.
Tailrace Marina, 1010 Marina Village Drive, Mount Holly
Lilly’s Bridge Marina
Another option, besides Morrow Mountain State Park, for paddling on Lake Tillery is Lilly’s Bridge Marina. They rent kayaks at $20/hour, or $100 for a full day. They also rent pontoon boats.
Lilly’s Bridge Marina, 1183 Lilly’s Bridge Road, Mount Gilead
Inflatable Kayaks
- Outdoor 2-person watercraft kayak is made of rugged 30-gauge vinyl for stronger durability, ideal for lakes and mild rivers
- Inflatable seats and backrests are adjustable for a comfortable ride and feature grab lines on both ends with a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds
- Built with inflatable I-beam floors for stability and has a streamlined design for easy paddling and removable skeg that provides enhanced directional stability
- Features 2 quick filling, fast deflating Boston valves on the main hull chamber and comes with a repair patch and carrying storage bag
- Includes (2) 86-inch aluminum oars and an Intex high-output hand pump for ultimate convenience; Inflated dimensions (L x W x H): 123 x 36 x 20 inches
- Kayak has a 220-pound capacity making it great for boating and fishing on lakes or mild rivers; Weighs 27 pounds and is U.S. Coast Guard I.D and TUV-approved
- Comfortable and spacious cockpit with inflatable seats, backrests, and a cargo net to keep personal belongings in the boat; Streamline design for easy paddling and removable skeg for directional stability
- Inflatable I beam floor for comfort and rigidity, streamlined design for easy paddling, grab lines on both ends, and made of rugged tough 30 gauge vinyl for durability; Noticeable graphics give a sporty flair and maximize safety on the water
- Strong molecular structure of this plastic makes it highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight special PVC plastic material also allows more air pressure for greater rigidity while maintaining the PVC material’s natural flexibility and
- Easy-to-store and carry package includes Challenger K1 kayak, 86-inch aluminum oar, High capacity/output hand pump with 2 quick fill, fast deflate Boston valves on main hull chamber, repair patch kit and carry bag; Dimensions (LxWxH): 108 x 30 x 13 inches
- Intex Excursion Pro Kayak made with low profile Polypropylene to maintain color and structural strength when in contact with oil, salt water, or other chemical agents, ready for use in rivers or lakes
- Kayak with built-in footrest and adjustable seats for comfort, able to hold maximum weight capacity of 396.8 pounds; Ideal for adventurous water enthusiasts
- Versatile 2 Person kayak featuring 2- 86 inch aluminum oars, 2 detachable fishing rod holders, 1 adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, high-output pump and one repair patch
- Inflatable and foldable kayak comes with US Coast Guard ID and TUV certifications, guaranteeing top-notch safety standards, bringing utmost peace of mind when fishing
- Lightweight and equipped with carrying handles on the front and back for easy transport even when inflated; Dimensions (L x W x H): 151 x 37 x 18 inches; Weights 39 pounds
- Inflatable 2-person kayak is 10.25 feet long and comes with a pair of included 86-inch long oars, along with a quick-inflating air pump; Designed to comfortably hold up to 400 pounds
- Designed for speed and agility in the water, this kayak features a dual-skeg system; Long skeg excels in maintaining straight-line tracking while the short skeg allows for quick and easy turns
- Heavy-duty vinyl material is engineered to resist punctures, ensuring durability in challenging environments; Three separate air chambers and an inflatable I-beam floor provide added rigidity
- Kayak is easy to handle in and out of the water, thanks to its thoughtful design; Features a convenient grab line and sturdy carry handles on the front and back, ensuring easy transport when inflated
- Includes inflatable seats with backrests that are removable and adjustable; WIth 2 dry bags and a carry bag for carrying the kayak and accessories; Dimensions (L x W x H): 10.25 x 3 x 1.6 feet
- GET OUTSIDE AND EXPLORE: Take your summer to the next level. The Hydro-Force Cove Champion X1 Inflatable Kayak Set drifts along the lake, river or ocean and can comfortably fit 1 adult (220 lbs weight capacity).
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The Inflata-Shield material ensures the boat can resist punctures, limits stretching and enhances the boat’s grip. The roomy cockpit has a firm, rigid inflated floor and features one adjustable inflatable seat with a backrest for extra support and comfort.
- NAVIGATE WATER WITH EASE: With two interchangeable and removable fins, you can customize your ride based on water conditions for optimal directional stability.
- SIMPLE TO USE: With quick and easy setup, the lightweight kayak inflates with the included Air Hammer hand pump. Transporting the kayak is a breeze using the grab ropes and the included carry bag makes for convenient storage when not in use.
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED: Have a great day on the water with 1 kayak, 1 aluminum paddle, 1 hand pump, 2 fins, 1 carry bag, and repair patch kit. Also, plenty of storage space exists between the storage cord and net for snacks, equipment, and other necessities.
- 5-minute setup lets you spend more time on the water
- Easy-to-carry backpack system turns into the seat
- 24-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- Tarpaulin bottom and polyester cover provide durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- 5-minute setup lets you spend more time on the water
- Easy-to-carry backpack system turns into the seat
- 21-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- Tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Roomy fishing boat can fit 4 adults and has plenty of space for everything you need, allowing you to enjoy boating and fishing trips with friends or family
- Features 2 inflatable seats with backrests that provide a comfortable and relaxing experience during your excursions; Relax as you fish by mounting your rods on the 4 holders
- Equipped with a Boston valve on the 2 main hull chambers for quick and easy inflation and deflation, allowing you to save time setting up your inflatable boat raft
- Constructed with heavy-duty and puncture-proof PVC material, ensuring a longer lifespan for your inflatable fishing boat and a more reliable experience
- Dimensions of the 4-person inflatable fishing raft measure 124 inches long, 65 inches wide, and 17 inches tall with a maximum weight capacity of 1,100 pounds
- Pack of (2) one-person inflatable kayaks with a maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds and ideal for lakes and mild rivers with oars and air pump; Durable nylon carry bag and repair patch included
- Comfortable and spacious cockpit with inflatable seats, backrests, and a cargo net to keep personal belongings in the boat; Streamline design for easy paddling and inflatable beam floor for rigidity
- High capacity output hand pump with 2 quick fill, fast deflate Boston valves on main hull chamber; Grab lines on both ends and removable skeg for directional stability
- Made of rugged, super tough 30 gauge vinyl made stronger for durability; Strong molecular structure of this plastic makes it highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight
- Special PVC plastic material allows more air pressure for greater rigidity while maintaining the PVC material’s natural flexibility; (L x W x H): 108 x 30 x 13 inches; Weight: 27 pounds
- FOR OPEN WATER ADVENTURES – This inflatable kayak is designed specifically for exploring serene lakes and gentle rivers. Its sturdy construction and impeccable stability make it the ideal choice for tranquil water bodies. With a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds, it can effortlessly accommodate two adventurers and their gear. It measures 11.37 feet x 2.75 feet when inflated.
- STABLE AND MANEUVERABLE – This kayak, equipped with two skegs for enhanced stability, offers exceptional maneuverability in various water conditions. Its well-balanced design ensures a steady ride, allowing you to navigate through calm or mild waters with ease.
- PORTABLE WITH EASY SET-UP – This kayak effortlessly folds down into a compact size and comes with an included portable storage bag. Its inflatable design allows for quick and hassle-free setup, making it perfect for transportation and storage.
- ADJUSTABLE SEATS – Comes with 2 inflatable adjustable seats. Designed to accommodate different body types and seating preferences, they allow you to find the perfect position for an optimized and enjoyable paddling experience.
- PREMIUM PVC CONSTRUCTION – Made with heavy duty PVC material, this inflatable kayak is built to last. The PVC has an updated thickness and is puncture-resistant. It is BPA-Free and does not have phthalates.
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