Third Coast Paddling FAQs
Jump to Answers
Reservations & Booking
Do I have to book online?
We strongly encourage booking online in advance to guarantee your equipment and preferred time. Walk-ups are welcome, but availability may be limited — especially on busy summer days.
How do I reserve?
Visit thirdcoastpaddling.com and click “Book Now.” Choose your location carefully to make sure you’re paddling where you want to be.
How much does it cost?
Pricing starts at:
- $25/hr – Single kayak or paddleboard
- $30/hr – Double kayak
Rates vary based on demand (similar to hotels and airlines). The online calendar shows real-time pricing.
How long should I rent for?
Our most popular reservation length is 2 hours. You paddle out and return to the same launch — no shuttle needed.
Can I extend my time?
Often, yes! Just check with our crew before heading out. Extensions depend on availability and closing hours.
What if I return early?
You’re welcome to come back anytime within your reserved window. Unused time is not refundable.
If I’m running late for my reservation, can I still use the same amount of time I reserved?
equipment isn’t booked after you. Please note that rentals cannot be extended past closing time.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. No cash or checks.
Do you offer group discounts?
Groups of 10+ may qualify for weekday off-peak discounts. Must be arranged in advance – click here (groups page) to learn more.
Do you offer a veterans' discount?
Yes — 15% off weekday rentals with advance online booking. Must be arranged in advance via email ([email protected]).
Can I rent overnight or off-site?
Multi-day rentals are available only at Wade’s Bayou (Douglas). Select “Overnight Rentals” when booking.
Hours & Season
What are your hours?
Hours vary by location and weather. Always check the online booking calendar to confirm availability.
What time zone are you in?
All locations operate on Eastern Time (ET).
When are you open for the season?
River locations: Mid-May through late September
Beach locations: Memorial Day through Labor Day
Weather and water conditions may affect hours.
Can you open for a private group on a closed day?
Sometimes! Email us ([email protected]) with advance notice and we’ll see what’s possible.
Our Equipment
What’s included in my rental?
Kayak or paddleboard, paddle(s), and Coast Guard-approved life jacket(s).
What types of kayaks do you have?
Beginner-friendly sit-on-top single and double kayaks.
What are the weight limits for rental equipment?
• Single kayak: 350 lbs
• Double kayak: 500 lbs
• Paddleboard: ~240 lbs
• Loungeboard: 400 lbs
Are the kayaks stable?
Yes! They’re designed for comfort and stability. As with any watercraft, standing or unsafe behavior can cause tipping.
What are loungeboards?
Extra-wide, ultra-stable inflatable paddleboards — perfect for families and couples (available at beach locations).
What are sandboards and sand sleds?
Similar to snowboarding, sandboards and sand sleds are designed with hardwood decks and slick base material for riding down the face of a dune (available at the Warren Dunes location).
Do you sell used equipment?
Occasionally, in the fall or spring. Follow us on social media for updates.
Can I bring my own kayak or board?
Yes — our sites are public launches. Please be aware of any parking or launch fees set by local authorities.
Locations & Water Conditions
Which location should I choose?
Beach vibes: Silver Beach, Jean Klock, Warren Dunes
River adventure: Galien River, Paw Paw River, Wade’s Bayou
Each offers a unique experience — you can’t go wrong!
What is there to do near your rental sites – lodging, restaurants, other activities?
All of our rental sites are located in fantastic West Michigan coastal communities. Here are some resources to help you start planning:
- Harbor Country Chamber (https://www.harborcountry.org/)
- Michigan Beachtowns (https://www.michiganbeachtowns.com/)
- Pure Michigan (https://www.michigan.org/)
- Saugatuck/Douglas Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (https://saugatuck.com/)
- Southwest Michigan Tourist Council (https://swmichigan.org/)
- St. Joseph Today (https://www.stjoetoday.com/)
- West Michigan Tourist Association (https://www.wmta.org/)
Is there anywhere to get off the kayak or paddleboard during the trip?
- Beach locations (Silver Beach in St. Joseph, Jean Klock Beach in Benton Harbor, and Warren Dunes State Park) – stop along the shore and enjoy the beach during your reservation time.
- Paw Paw River location (St. Joseph/Benton Harbor) – build time into your reservation to eat at North Pier Brewing Company. (The take-out area can be muddy, and our crew will not be there to help you disembark or relaunch.)
You’re responsible for your equipment during your rental time. Please keep it in sight — you will be held responsible for lost or damaged gear.
Do I need a shuttle?
Nope! Our river launches are near Lake Michigan, so the current is mild. Paddle out, explore, and return to the same spot where you started at your own pace.
How deep is the water?
Depth varies based on rain, waves, and season. Always wear your life jacket and follow crew guidance.
Where do I park?
Parking info is included in your confirmation email.
Who Can Paddle?
Can kids paddle alone?
- Under 12: Must ride in a double kayak with an adult
- 12+: May paddle solo if accompanied by an adult
- 15–17: May paddle alone with parent waiver signed in person
All minors require a signed waiver and must wear a life jacket.
Can I bring my baby?
Yes — small children may sit in a double kayak with an adult. Bring a properly fitting life jacket.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Pets are welcome on kayaks. We recommend bringing your own dog life jacket.
What if I can’t swim?
Life jackets are required and designed to keep you afloat.
Preparing For Your Rental
What should I bring?
- Check your confirmation email for a link to our electronic waiver, and make sure everyone in your group signs it.
- Photo ID
- Water-friendly clothes
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Waterproof bag
- Change of clothes
No alcohol allowed.
Will I have to get in the water if I’m kayaking?
You can get into your kayak without stepping into the water, and then our crew will push the kayak out for you. They will pull you in on your way back, unless you get out on your own while they’re helping other guests. You will likely get a little wet from the drips off the paddle once you’re out paddling, and it’s a good idea to have extra clothes just in case, but you won’t be in the water.
Can I bring food?
Yes, non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are welcome. Please pick up any trash.
Do you have lockers?
No, please leave valuables at home or in your car, or bring a dry bag.
What if I’m early or late?
We’ll do our best to accommodate you based on availability and closing times.
What if I go to the wrong location?
Let our crew know, and we’ll help if availability allows.
Can I fish?
Yes — check Michigan DNR (michigan.gov) for licensing rules.
What kind of footwear should I wear if I’m going sandboarding?
The sand can be hot on warm, sunny days, so plan to wear socks or some kind of enclosed footwear like aqua socks for walking up and down the dunes.
Weather & Safety
Is it safe to paddle today?
If our booking calendar shows we’re open, conditions are safe.
If the weather turns unsafe and you already have a reservation, we’ll notify you via text/email and issue a full credit.
What if the weather changes during my reservation?
We monitor conditions closely. If needed, we’ll guide you safely back and issue credit.
The location is open as planned and I have a reservation, but I would rather come on a day with nicer weather. What should I do?
If we’re open but you choose not to paddle due to weather, please reschedule using the link in your confirmation email before your reservation starts. Reservations not rescheduled in advance are not eligible for a refund.
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
Yes, you must wear a life jacket – we provide them with your rental.
What if I get lost?
Our staff explains the paddling route at our locations before you set out, and our routes are very easy to navigate. In the event that you get lost or lose your direction, and you are not in an emergency situation, call 269-468-9399 for assistance. If in an emergency situation, call 911.
Rescheduling & Cancellations
Can I reschedule?
Yes — use the link in your confirmation email before your reservation time. No refunds, but we’re happy to reschedule.
Can I change the location of my booking?
Absolutely! Email [email protected] with your booking confirmation and desired location at least 24 hours in advance, and we’ll help if space is available.
Do you offer refunds?
If you purchased Peek Protect booking insurance with your reservation, you can request a refund for the covered amount directly through Peek Protect (more info here). Peek Protect handles all refund requests.
If you didn’t purchase Peek Protect, refunds aren’t available, but we’re happy to help you reschedule your rental for another day.
About Third Coast Paddling
Are you hiring?
We hire primarily in late winter and spring, but we will also add staff in the summer. Apply online here.
Sponsorship or donation requests?
Email us ([email protected]) about community event support.
Explore All Our Locations
Warren Dunes State Park
DUNES, LAKE & SANDBOARDING
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12032 Red Arrow Highway
Sawyer, MI 49125