Kayak Rentals

Wind and Water Learning Center kayaks lined up next to each otherREQUIREMENTS AND TERMS

When you rent a kayak, you will launch from and land at the W&WLC, help clean up and properly store your boat, and associated equipment. If this is your first time renting with us, you must pass a skills assessment (includes an intro to our facility, dock, boats, and best launching/landing practices). A skills assessment which includes on-the-water practice is required of everyone on an annual basis (no exceptions). Once you pass your skills assessment for the initial year, you are eligible to rent until next year and can recertify/review at that point. 

To enjoy access to our rental fleet at great rates you must:

  • Be over the age of 18.
  • Provide a government-issued photo ID for all rentals.
  • Have at least one person in their group with kayaking experience, and know about the right of way and local water body.
  • Wear a USCG-approved Type III PFD at all times while on the water.
  • Have a communication device with you at all times while on the water. 
  • Be responsible for any damages to the boat or equipment during use including total loss.
  • Sign a waiver accepting responsibility for any damages or injuries arising from your use of the rental.
  • Pass a written and on-the-water skills assessment before obtaining access to the rental equipment.
    • For people who do not pass the on-the-water skills assessment, we recommend scheduling a private or small group lesson to hone your paddling skills. To be eligible for Wind & Water Learning Center equipment rentals, individuals must be 18 years or older, provide a government-issued photo ID, pass an annual on-the-water skills assessment, and know boating rights of way and marine channel markers.

Renters must sign a waiver of liability, wear a USCG-approved Type III PFD, and carry a communication device at all times while on the water. Payment must be made at the Wind & Water Learning Center office. 

A person kayaks on Wolf Bay at the Orange Beach Wind and Water Learning Center

Kayak Rentals

  FEE DETAILS  COST    
  Initial Skills Assessment Fee (required for any new Renter)  $40     
  Skills Assessment Review Fee (required annually for established Renters) $20    
  Kayak Rental Rate  $25 per hour, $65 per half day (plus tax)     
  Kayak/SUP $25 per hour, $65 per day (plus tax)    

Payment must be made at the Wind & Water Learning Center office. For questions, call 251-424-5909 or email pellison@orangebeachal.gov.

Kayak Rental Request and Acknowledgement Form

Q&A’s:

Q: Do you have life jackets?

A: USCG-approved Type III lifejackets are included with the rental; if you have your own that is also USCG-approved you are welcome to use it. 

Q: Can I pick up a rental boat and take it to another launch location? Do you deliver and pick up rental equipment?

A: No; all rental boats and equipment are to be launched and landed on-site at the W&WLC. 

Q: Do you have a waterproof case for my phone?

A: You provide your waterproof casing/dry bags for your items. We are not responsible for anything that gets damaged or lost overboard. 

Q: How old do my children need to be to kayak alone?

A: All minors under the age of 18 must have an adult guardian with them/in their kayak group.

Q: What if the boat becomes damaged or lost while in use or while in my care?

A: We provide a complete list of replacement parts and prices to allow you to assess the cost of the damage or loss for which you are responsible.

Q: How do I know what condition my kayak is in before my rental term?

A: We provide an itemized list of previous wear to the hull and other parts.

Q: What is involved in the Skill Assessment?

A: Curriculum to be covered in skill assessment course:

  • Proper PFD fit and Swim Capability Check
  • Weather awareness and response
  • Beach Launching and Landing
  • Right of Way and Boater Awareness on the water
  • Capsize Recovery 
  • Basic kayaking maneuvers (forward, reverse, sweeps, stopping, draws) 
  • Review of permitted recreation area using a chart
  • Float plans and emergency contact information