FAQ

Hours of operation

  • We are currently open 7 days a week from 8:30am - 5:00pm and reservations should be made online

  • Mornings are the best time for kayaking and paddleboarding because it’s calmer and there’s less wind. Depending on wind and sea forecasts, reservations are typically available from 8:30am - 1pm.

  • Reservations: We update our availabilities daily, so please check our calendar and reserve online. Space is limited to avoid crowding and provide the best service!

  • Suggested attire - active clothing that you don’t mind getting wet, water shoes or sandals - hats and sunglasses are always helpful! We suggest bringing sunscreen, a towel, and beverages and snacks you would want to enjoy at the beach and lighthouse.

  • Ocean conditions and forecasts can change quickly. Staff reserves the right to close rentals for public safety. Full refunds are issued for any reservations that are cancelled by staff because of unfavorable conditions.

  • FISHING EQUIPMENT OF ANY KIND IS NOT ALLOWED ON KAYAKS OR PADDLEBOARDS.

Location

  • Address: 3915 Avila Beach Drive, Avila Beach, CA 93424.

  • Location: We’re in Port San Luis Harbor, not downtown Avila (continue 1 mile on Avila Beach Drive until the road ends in the parking lot). Front entrance for Avila Beach Paddlesports is through the Mermaid Market.

  • Get a cup of locally roasted Coastal Peaks Coffee, local beer and wine, snacks, gifts and more at our NEW Mermaid Market.

  • Parking: Free public parking right next to our shop.

  • Port San Luis: Multiple restaurants, beaches, Harford Pier, private showers.

What to wear & bring

  • You will get a little wet. Recommended clothing: leggings, boardshorts, windbreakers, sandals (totally fine), water shoes, bathing suits (be prepared to get wet and for safety, please no jeans, sweaters, boots, etc)

  • Wetsuits: rentals available for $5 flat fee, but most people don’t need them

  • Waterproof Bags: protect your valuables and be prepared to get wet. A lot of people put their belongings in plastic bags inside a backpack to save $$

  • Waterproof Phone Cases w/Lanyard $10 (waterproof phones don’t float…)

Policies

  • For your safety, ALL guests must be able to swim independently and be prepared to participate in a potentially strenuous activity

  • Minimum Age 7+ permitted during calm conditions w/adult (staff discretion)

  • For your safety, staff reserves the right to limit, terminate, or close rentals at their sole discretion. Trust our local knowledge. We’ve been doing this a really long time and we want you to have fun and be safe!

  • Afternoons can get windy and force early closing. Mornings are best.

  • Cancellations:

    • Full refunds for cancellations up to 48 hours before reservation

    • 50% refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours before reservation

    • No refunds for no-shows or same-day cancellations

  • FISHING EQUIPMENT IS NOT PERMITTED ON KAYAKS AND PADDLEBOARDS

  • 1 person max per paddleboard (SUP)