A trip to the Douglas–Saugatuck area isn’t complete without time on the Kalamazoo River. Launch from Wade’s Bayou Park in downtown Douglas, Michigan, and explore by kayak or paddleboard while soaking in scenic waterfront views and peaceful natural surroundings.
Weather may affect hours. Click “Book Now” for real-time calendar.
Pick up a one- or two-person kayak for your beach or river house with convenient multi-day rentals.
Bring a stand-up paddleboard to your favorite spot on the water with multi-day rentals.
Designed for all experience levels, these trips offer calm water, straightforward routes, and plenty of time to relax and take in the scenery.
Your safety is our top priority. We adhere to strict safety standards so you can focus on your paddling adventure with confidence.
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available mid-May through mid-October for river locations and late May through Labor Day for beach locations. Please check availability as hours are subject to change due to weather.
Wade’s Bayou is a peaceful escape in the heart of downtown Douglas, Michigan, just steps from shops, art galleries, restaurants, and local attractions. The bayou is part of the Kalamazoo River and Lake Kalamazoo system, a historic waterway that has shaped the region for centuries — from its use by Native American tribes to its role in early settlement and local commerce. Today, it’s a scenic spot where history and nature meet, making Wade’s Bayou kayaking one of the area’s most popular activities.
The calm waters make it easy for paddlers of all skill levels to explore Saugatuck and Douglas, Michigan, in a whole new way. On your paddling adventure, you’ll be surrounded by lush wetlands and abundant wildlife, from herons and ducks to turtles and songbirds. Whether you are here for a Wade’s Bayou paddleboard excursion or a relaxed afternoon of Wade’s Bayou kayaking, this location offers a perfect place to slow down, unwind, and soak up the beauty of nature.
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Wade’s Bayou kayak and paddleboard rentals are located on the shores of the Kalamazoo River in downtown Douglas, just minutes from Saugatuck and Oval Beach.
Parking: Free parking is available on-site at Wade’s Bayou Park.
No, you simply paddle back to where you started when you’re done. It is easy, as there is very little current on the Paw Paw River, Galien River, and Wade’s Bayou. It is also convenient since you don’t have to wait for a shuttle – just paddle upstream or downstream and return back to the rental site when finished.
Yes, you really can paddle both upstream and downstream at our river rental locations. Our launches are situated near where the rivers meet Lake Michigan — which results in much less current than if you were to paddle at points farther up the river. You can paddle out and return right back to where you started. No need for a shuttle or getting dropped off, which we do not offer.
At all of our rental sites, you can paddle as long as you like and just turn around when you’re ready to return to the launch site. (No need for a shuttle, which we do not offer.) Our most popular reservation length is two hours.
If you need to reschedule your reservation, use the link in your booking confirmation email to choose a new day and time. You must reschedule BEFORE your original reservation time. We’re happy to reschedule rentals, but there are no refunds on these services.
You do not need to worry about tipping our kayaks over. They are a beginner-friendly sit-on-top style that is very stable and designed not to tip easily. While our kayaks are designed for stability, it’s important to note that any kayak can tip if a paddler stands up or behaves unsafely.
Yes, each guest is required to sign a waiver, which includes agreeing to wear your life jacket the entire time.
We encourage you to book ahead of time online to make sure you get the equipment you want when you want. Visit thirdcoastpaddling.com, click “book now,” and choose your rental location. You’re also welcome to drop by to rent, but your selection may be limited – or not available at all – depending on demand.
