More Than Rentals – Sharing the Water We Love

We’re Ryan and Erin, and we believe the best way to experience West Michigan is from the water. With eight beautiful waterfront locations across lakes, rivers, and marshes, our focus is simple: create welcoming, easy, and memorable kayak and paddleboard adventures for families, visitors, and locals alike.

Whether it’s your first paddle or your fiftieth, we’re here to make every adventure safe, simple, and full of fun.

Our History

Our journey began in 2005 with Third Coast Surf Shop, serving the Great Lakes’ growing watersports community through retail, lessons, rentals, and camps. Over time, we realized the moments that mattered most weren’t inside the shop — they were out on the water. Today, we focus entirely on kayak and paddleboard rentals and camps, helping people see the Great Lakes shoreline from a fresh perspective.

With two active, water-loving boys of our own, we’re even more attuned to what makes a day on the water fun, safe, and memorable for families. Every adventure we offer is designed to be approachable, exciting, and full of the small moments that turn a paddle into a lasting memory.

Now with eight waterfront locations and a team that loves getting out on the water as much as our guests, we’re proud to help people of all ages explore the lakes, rivers, and marshes that make this area so special.

photo collage of a family kayaking and a family in a surf shop van

Why Third Coast Paddling?

Commitment to Safety

Your safety is our top priority. We adhere to strict safety standards so you can focus on your paddling adventure with confidence.

Exceptional Service

Over 20 years of working to provide the best possible experience – check out our 4.9 Google Reviews average customer rating!

Top-Notch Equipment

We offer the industry’s leading kayaks and paddleboards to provide you with a safe, comfortable paddling experience.

Everyone Is Welcome

No matter your age or experience, our rentals are a great fit — perfect for beginners, families, and kids.

Unmatched Convenience

Our online reservation system makes it easy to book your rental in advance – just show up and paddle!

Easy Adventure

Planning a trip to West Michigan? With eight locations, we’ve got rentals ready wherever you’re headed.

photo collage of an employee helping guests into a kayak and. guest carrying a paddleboard

Meet Our Team

Our staff come back season after season because they love being outdoors, on the water, and helping guests have a great day. They know how to make every paddle safe, fun, and memorable — and they love seeing familiar faces return year after year.

Interested in joining the team? Explore current job openings

Explore All Our Locations

Pick YOur Location

Galien River – New Buffalo
Jean Klock Beach – Benton Harbor
Paddler Park – St. Joseph
Paw Paw River – Benton Harbor
Silver Beach – St. Joseph
Van Buren State Park – South Haven
Wade’s Bayou – Douglas
Warren Dunes State Park – South Haven