Best Kayak Rentals for Families in Santa Rosa Beach
Family kayaking in Santa Rosa Beach is easiest with rental services that deliver tandem kayaks, child-size PFDs, and guided eco-tours.
Santa Rosa Beach is a perfect destination for family kayaking adventures, thanks to its calm coastal dune lakes and family-friendly rental services. This guide highlights the top seven kayak rental providers in the area, each offering tailored options for families, including tandem kayaks, child-safe gear, and convenient delivery services. Here's a quick summary:
- Yellowfin Ocean Sports: Offers tandem kayaks, fishing kayaks, and free delivery for multi-day rentals. Locations in Seagrove and WaterColor.
- Rent Gear Here: Specializes in double kayaks, free delivery to over 65 locations, and additional rentals like beach bonfires and baby gear.
- The Rental Shop 30A: Provides 1-3 seater kayaks with annual inventory updates and fast delivery across the 30A corridor.
- Jongle Beach: Focuses on family convenience with free delivery, baby gear rentals, and beach bonfire setups.
- Reef Beach Services: Tandem kayaks with flexible half-day and full-day options, plus discounts for partner guests.
- 30A Longue Vue Beach Service: Offers hourly and daily tandem kayak rentals with on-site setup help.
- Stay Afloat Paddle: Delivers kayaks directly and offers guided eco-tours for families.
Each provider caters to different needs, from fishing enthusiasts to families seeking bundled rental options. Pricing for single kayaks typically starts at $65 per day, while tandem kayaks range from $70 to $90 daily. Weekly rates provide cost savings, starting at $175. Delivery services and extra perks, such as guided tours or beach bonfires, vary by provider.
Quick Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and consider multi-day rentals for added convenience and savings.
1. Yellowfin Ocean Sports
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
For over 25 years, Yellowfin Ocean Sports has been a go-to spot for families visiting 30A. They offer the Hobie Kona 11'6" tandem kayak, a perfect choice for parents with younger kids. For older children and teens, the Hobie Lanai 9' solo kayak provides a great way to build confidence on the water. Every rental includes essential safety gear like life jackets and whistles, so you can focus on enjoying your time out on the water.
Delivery Services and Convenient Locations
Yellowfin makes it easy for families to get their gear with two locations in Santa Rosa Beach: their main store in Seagrove at 30 Herons Watch Way and another shop in Watercolor at 88 WaterColor Way. They also offer free delivery for multi-day rentals, or you can pick up your gear with roof pads and tie-down straps included for convenience.
Rental Pricing
| Kayak Type | 1 Day (24 Hours) | 2-3 Days | 4-7 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo Kayak (Hobie Lanai 9') | $70 | $125 | $175 |
| Tandem Kayak (Hobie Kona 11'6") | $85 | $140 | $195 |
| Solo Fishing Kayak (Hobie Quest 11') | $80 | $135 | $190 |
Planning to spend several days on the water? The 4-7 day rental rates offer the best bang for your buck, especially if you're looking to make kayaking a central part of your vacation.
Additional Family Perks
Yellowfin’s team is known for their friendly and helpful approach, especially with families. One satisfied customer, Mark Wagner, shared his experience:
I really appreciated these old salts helping a newcomer master fishing techniques and coaching me into a couple of great mornings of fishing. Staff was great, kayaks were great, and my experience was southern hospitality at its finest!!!
In addition to kayaks, they offer bike rentals with trailers to help you easily transport your beach gear. Their fishing kayaks come ready with rod holders and storage compartments, making it simple for anyone to try their hand at catching dinner. These thoughtful touches make Yellowfin Ocean Sports a standout choice for families exploring Santa Rosa Beach.
2. Rent Gear Here
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
Planning a family outing on the calm waters of Santa Rosa Beach? Rent Gear Here offers double tandem kayaks that are perfect for all ages and skill levels. These kayaks are designed for easy handling, making them a great choice for beginners and families alike. Each rental includes paddles and life vests, with sizes tailored for kids (30-50 lbs, 50-90 lbs, and 90+ lbs). Plus, Florida law requires U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for children under 6, and Rent Gear Here provides these at no additional cost. It’s a safe and hassle-free way to enjoy the water with the whole family.
Delivery Services and Convenient Locations
You can visit Rent Gear Here’s storefront at 4042 E County Hwy 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, open daily until 5 p.m. But here’s the best part: they offer free delivery to over 65 locations along 30A, including spots like Adagio, San Remo, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Dunes, and the Santa Rosa Beach Club. With their door-to-door service, you can have your kayak delivered directly to your vacation rental. If you run into any issues during your rental, they also provide on-site support to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Rental Pricing
| Kayak Type | Daily Rate | Weekly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Double Tandem Kayak | $85 | $260 |
| Kayak Caddy (Add-on) | $30 | - |
If you’re planning multiple paddling trips, the weekly rate offers a better deal. For added convenience, you can rent a kayak caddy for $30 per day to easily transport your kayak to the water’s edge.
Additional Family Perks
Rent Gear Here isn’t just about kayaks - they also offer a wide range of family-friendly rentals to simplify your vacation. From baby gear and beach bonfires to golf carts, bicycles, chairs, and umbrellas, they have everything you need to make your trip stress-free. By bundling all your rental needs into one order, you’ll save time and enjoy a more relaxed vacation experience at Santa Rosa Beach.
3. The Rental Shop 30A
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
The Rental Shop 30A stands out as the only rental provider in Santa Rosa Beach offering 1-3 seater kayaks. Their Perception Tribe models are designed for comfort, featuring built-in captain's chairs with soft cushions and adjustable aluminum frames for lumbar support. The 13.5 ft double kayak is especially versatile, functioning as a single, tandem, or triple-seater, with a center space perfect for a small third rider. This makes it an excellent choice for families with young kids who want to share a boat.
What sets this shop apart is their commitment to quality. They update their entire inventory every year, ensuring customers receive brand-new, top-notch equipment instead of worn-out gear. Rentals include paddles, locks, and U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) at no extra cost, ensuring safety and compliance for all ages.
Delivery Services and Convenient Locations
The Rental Shop 30A offers free delivery across Santa Rosa Beach and the entire 30A corridor. They deliver to driveways, beach access points, and dune lake boat ramps in areas like Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Seaside, WaterColor, Seagrove Beach, and Rosemary Beach. Deliveries are fast - most arrive within two hours, and some can be as quick as five minutes if a driver is nearby. For early morning plans, you can call the night before to secure a spot at the top of the delivery route. This quick and reliable service makes the rental process even easier.
Rental Pricing
| Kayak Type | Daily Rate | Weekly Rate (3-7 Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Kayak (11.5 ft) | $65 | $175-$180 |
| Double/Triple Kayak (13.5 ft) | $70 | $175-$185 |
Weekly rates cover rentals lasting 3-7 days, and occasional discounts may bring double kayak prices down to match single kayak rates. Online booking isn’t available, so you’ll need to call or text 850-260-0001 to make a reservation.
Additional Family Perks
In addition to kayaks, The Rental Shop 30A offers family-friendly bundles that include street-legal golf carts, stand-up paddleboards, beach chairs, and umbrellas. For a memorable evening, families can book professional beach bonfire setups starting at $285. With over 200 five-star reviews and a 4.8/5 rating on Yelp as of February 2026, the shop is frequently praised for its excellent communication, comfortable equipment, and dependable service. Up next, we’ll look at a quick comparison of these family-friendly options.
4. Jongle Beach
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
Jongle Beach Service is a go-to spot for kayak rentals along South Walton's beaches, including Santa Rosa Beach. They focus on family-friendly gear, offering not just kayaks but also paddle boards, bicycles, and golf carts. To ensure safety, all rentals include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets. This attention to safety and family needs aligns with the offerings of other rental services in the Santa Rosa Beach area.
Delivery Services and Convenient Locations
Jongle Beach makes your beach day hassle-free with free delivery and setup right at your vacation rental or beach access point. Prefer to visit them in person? Their store is located at 1598 S County Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. You can reserve equipment through their website at jonglebeach.com, by emailing management@jonglebeach.com, or by calling (850) 687-5484. Booking in advance ensures your gear is ready when you need it.
Rental Pricing
For up-to-date kayak rental prices, reach out directly by phone at (850) 687-5484 or email. Free delivery and setup are included with every rental.
Additional Family Perks
Jongle Beach offers more than just kayaks. Their rental options include electric bikes, beach chairs, umbrellas, and golf carts, making it easy to bundle everything you need for a perfect day at the beach. They also provide beach bonfire setups, creating unforgettable family evenings. Like their other rentals, all equipment comes with free delivery for added convenience.
5. Reef Beach Services & Rentals
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
Reef Beach Services & Rentals offers high-quality tandem kayaks, perfect for families looking to paddle together on the stunning emerald waters of 30A. Each rental comes with life jackets and paddles, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Their friendly staff is always ready to share tips on where to spot dolphins or uncover sand dollars. To save time, you can download and fill out the Watersports Rental Form from their website before your visit. Be sure to check out their delivery services for added convenience.
Delivery Services and Convenient Locations
Located at 43 Cassine Way, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Reef Beach Services & Rentals provides rentals to many popular 30A communities, including Seaside, WaterColor, Seagrove, Grayton, Blue Mountain, Gulf Place, Seacrest, Alys, Rosemary, and Dune Allen. They operate daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering flexible pickup and drop-off options to fit your plans. For the latest hours or availability, give them a call at (850) 296-9077.
Rental Pricing
Tandem Kayak Pricing:
- Half-day: $65
- Full-day: $94
- Weekly: $250 (less than $36 per day)
Each rental includes all necessary gear. If you're visiting during the off-season, it's worth calling ahead to ask about potential discounts.
Additional Family Perks
Guests staying with partners like My Vacation Haven can enjoy a 10% discount on rentals (excluding bonfires and shrimp boils). Beyond kayaks, Reef Beach offers a variety of rental options, including golf carts, bicycles, paddleboards, beach chairs, and umbrellas - everything you need for an ideal beach day. They also provide beach bonfire setups, perfect for creating unforgettable evenings by the ocean.
6. 30A Longue Vue Beach Service
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
30A Longue Vue Beach Service, operated by La Dolce Vita (LDV Beach), provides two-seater tandem kayaks that are perfect for family adventures on the Gulf. Each rental includes paddles and personal flotation devices (PFDs) for all participants. Plus, helpful beach attendants are on hand to set up your equipment and offer guidance, making it especially reassuring for families with kids kayaking for the first time. Their support ensures you can start your outing with confidence and ease.
Convenient Location
You’ll find 30A Longue Vue Beach Service at Longue Vue Dr, Inlet Beach, FL 32461, conveniently located at the eastern end of the 30A corridor. This spot is great for families staying in Santa Rosa Beach or South Walton, as it provides easy access to top-notch kayak rentals without the hassle of a long commute.
Rental Pricing
Flexible rental options are available, including hourly, half-day, full-day, and weekly choices. Keep in mind that rentals are seasonal and unavailable from November 1 through February 28. For the most up-to-date pricing and availability, simply reach out to the on-site attendants. Their assistance ensures your family outing is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
7. Stay Afloat Paddle
Family-Friendly Kayak Options
Stay Afloat Paddle offers both single and tandem kayaks, perfect for families looking to explore the waterways of Santa Rosa Beach. Their double kayaks are especially great for parents with young children, making it easy to share the experience. To enhance your adventure, they also provide guided eco-tours. Owners Jason and Tiffany kick things off with a quick lesson to ensure everyone feels comfortable and ready to paddle. Plus, their mobile service makes getting on the water easier than ever.
Delivery Services
Stay Afloat Paddle takes the hassle out of renting by delivering kayaks straight to your vacation rental or dock. Jason and Tiffany personally handle all deliveries across Santa Rosa Beach, offering a seamless and family-friendly experience. As one happy customer, Gordon C., shared: "Jason and Tiffany delivered our paddle boards directly to our dock, provided a quick lesson, and made drop-off and return effortless."
If you’d like to visit them in person, their base is located at 17 White Dune Cove in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
Rental Pricing
Daily rentals are available every day of the week, offering flexibility for your schedule. For the latest pricing and availability, give them a call at 687-5010 or 420-3884. Want to make the most of your day? Pair a morning kayak rental with an afternoon Beach Happy Hammock rental for a full day of fun outdoors.
30A kayak rentals from the rental shop- Santa Rosa Beach Florida
Quick Comparison of Family Kayak Rentals
Santa Rosa Beach Family Kayak Rental Comparison: Pricing and Services
Here’s a quick overview to help you compare family kayak rental services. The seven options highlighted here differ in pricing, delivery coverage, and family-focused features, making it easier to pick what suits your vacation plans best.
Daily rates for single kayaks range from $60 to $90, while tandem kayaks are priced between $70 and $90. If you’re planning an extended stay, weekly rentals offer better value, starting at $175 and going up to $260, depending on the provider.
Delivery policies vary, so it’s worth checking the specifics for each service. For instance, The Rental Shop 30A extends delivery to Destin and Miramar Beach. Some services also cater specifically to families, with perks like The Rental Shop 30A's Perception Tribe kayaks that fit up to three riders. Others, like Rent Gear Here and Jongle Beach, offer baby gear rentals alongside kayaks, while Yellowfin Ocean Sports provides fishing kayaks equipped with rod holders.
The table below breaks down pricing, delivery areas, and standout family perks to help you decide:
| Rental Service | Single Kayak (Daily) | Tandem Kayak (Daily) | Weekly Rate (Starts) | Delivery Coverage | Key Family Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowfin Ocean Sports | $70 | $85 | $175 | Seagrove & Watercolor | Fishing kayaks with rod holders; free delivery on multi-day rentals |
| Rent Gear Here | N/A | $85 | $260 | Rosemary to Blue Mountain | Rents cribs, high chairs, beach bonfires |
| The Rental Shop 30A | $65 | $70 | $175 | All 30A towns + Destin | 1-3 person kayaks; annual equipment replacement |
| Jongle Beach | $75 | $75 | $175 | Entire 30A community | Rents baby gear, scooters, golf carts |
| Reef Beach Services | $90 (full day) | $90 (full day) | $250 | Santa Rosa Beach | Half-day option ($65) |
| 30A Longue Vue Beach Service | $60 | $90 | $195 | 30A beaches | Hourly rates available; wide gear selection |
| Stay Afloat Paddle | Contact | Contact | Contact | Santa Rosa Beach | Personal delivery by owners; guided eco-tours |
This comparison makes it easy to weigh your options based on cost, convenience, and family-friendly extras. Whether you’re after fishing kayaks, baby gear rentals, or guided tours, there’s something for everyone.
Conclusion
Santa Rosa Beach offers seven kayak rental services tailored for families, featuring options like fishing kayaks, tandem models, and even triple-seaters. Many services also provide the convenience of direct delivery to vacation rentals. Pricing starts at around $70 for solo kayaks and $85 for tandem models, with discounts available for multi-day rentals.
When choosing a rental, consider what matters most to you. For example, Yellowfin Ocean Sports provides free multi-day delivery, while The Rental Shop 30A is known for its updated, high-quality gear. If you're new to paddling, South Walton's 16 coastal dune lakes offer calm waters and a unique experience, perfect for beginners.
"Most of the time my clients call to rent a kayak or paddle board for a day and they want to know the best spot to go to. First off I am always going to suggest the rare coastal dune lakes."
- Noah Vickers, Owner, The Rental Shop 30A
To ensure a smooth family adventure, plan ahead and book your rental early, especially for tandem or specialized kayaks. Multi-day bookings often include perks like free delivery, saving you the trouble of transporting equipment yourself. Also, be mindful of the beach flag warning system - paddling in the Gulf is prohibited during Red Flag conditions.
Looking for more to do? Visit sowal.co for family-friendly activities, hidden beaches, and local events in the Santa Rosa Beach area. The "Explore SoWal" section offers detailed maps of state parks and coastal dune lakes, while the events calendar highlights upcoming happenings.
FAQs
Which kayak rental is best for a family with a small child?
For families with young kids, sit-on-top kayaks are a great choice because they’re easy to use and offer extra safety. Companies like Butterfly Bike & Kayak and Glow Paddle cater to families with options like kayaks equipped with lights for a more exciting experience. They also provide guided tours specifically designed with families in mind, making the adventure both enjoyable and secure for everyone.
Do any Santa Rosa Beach kayak rentals deliver to our vacation rental?
Kayak rental services in Santa Rosa Beach, such as Butterfly Bike and Kayak Rentals and The Rental Shop 30A, offer the convenience of free delivery and pick-up directly to vacation rentals. This means families can enjoy kayaking without worrying about transporting the gear themselves, making their beach experience even more hassle-free.
Where are the safest places for beginners to kayak in Santa Rosa Beach?
Coastal dune lakes, such as Grayton Beach State Park and Western Lake, are perfect for beginner kayakers in Santa Rosa Beach. These spots offer calm, gentle waters and convenient access points, creating a stress-free environment for those new to paddling. The peaceful setting of these lakes makes them a great choice for families and first-time kayakers looking for a safe and enjoyable outing.
