We are open for the 2026 season

South Tahoe Kayak & Paddleboard rentals and tours



kayaker and paddle boarder enjoy the calm waters of South Lake Tahoe

Rental
Rates

1 Hour

3 Hours

Full Day

Single
Kayak

$32

$64

$96

Double
Kayak

$48

$96

$110

Paddle
board

$32

$64

$96

Inflatable
Paddle Board*

$96

South Tahoe Kayak & Paddleboard is the newest venture of Tahoe City Kayak, a paddlesports company that has has assisted in getting thousands of paddlers out on Lake Tahoe since 1997. Even though it’s in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, this new location offers paddlers easy access to a large stretch of pristine, undeveloped beach (known as “Secret Beach”), preserved marshlands filled with wildlife, and the upper Truckee River, which is home to river otters, endangered Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, and many species of birds. This scenic wonder is just a short paddle from our rental beach. All of this is accentuated by the stunning backdrop of Mount Tallac (Tahoe’s highest peak), and the beautiful peaks above Emerald Bay. Cave Rock is also clearly visible from this location.

Rentals

Our rental tent/kiosk is conveniently located on South Lake Tahoe's Lakeview Commons Beach, and operates 7 days a week (during the summer months) with beach-front rentals and guided tours.

Tours

There are lots of reasons to upgrade from a rental to a guided tour or lesson. Some people want to learn about the history and ecology of Lake Tahoe. Others like the safety of knowing that they’ll be paddling with a guide who’s been trained in ACA (American Canoe and Kayak Association) techniques for rescue, water safety, and efficient paddling form. Many of our guests just want to pick up some local knowledge or have our guides entertain the kids with G-rated “Dad Jokes.” Whatever your reason, we feel that upgrading to a guided experience will enhance your Tahoe adventure.

Compare Tours

kayaker and paddle boarder on Lake Tahoe at sunset

Sunset Tour

This tour begins 2 hours before sunset. This is a stunning time of day to see Lake Tahoe as the water reflects the vibrant sunset

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paddle boarder on Lake Tahoe

Get Up Stand Up

This one-hour paddle is an affordable way to learn proper technique for stand-up paddle boarding, and a great way to enjoy the lake’s smoothest water

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fireworks exploding in the sky

4th of July Fireworks Tour

We give every guest a headlamp and a glow stick and then group the kayaks together and enjoy the best seats in the house for the Fireworks display

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kayak at night

Illuminated Full Moon Tour

This tour starts an hour before sunset, and paddlers get to catch the sunset and the spectacular moon rise over the lake

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kayaker on Lake Tahoe near the beach

Discover Tour

This is a 1.5 hour lesson tour hybrid that is designed to introduce people to basic paddle strokes and techniques for becoming comfortable in their kayak.

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two person kayak at sunset

Emerald Bay Boat Camp Overnight

This tour includes a nature paddle in the Upper Truckee River, a hike on Fannette Island, a tour of Vikingsholm, stories and music by the campfire

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kayakers on a picturesque Lake Tahoe

Wild and Scenic Nature tour

Enjoy this family-friendly nature paddle while hearing tales of the Wild West from Tahoe’s past. This scenic wonder is just a short paddle from our rental beach

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  • We walked in on a Sunday morning and were able to hop in a kayak immediately. The instructors were helpful, and it was a great experience for the money

    Akshatha

Why Paddlers Keep Coming Back

What is the best time of day to go paddling?

Lake Tahoe is usually fairly windy and wavy from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. Although the West Shore of Lake Tahoe is somewhat sheltered from the wind most days, it’s usually best to paddle in the morning/early afternoon, or at sunset. For a multi-sport day, we recommend planning a morning paddle and hiking or biking for the afternoon. Our “Sunset Kayak Tour” and “Get Up Stand Up” programs are a great way to get on the water outside our normal business hours.

Paddle through our FAQs