The Kayak Shack

Had a great time with my kids. We went on a Sunday and the river was packed. Very inexpensive. Polite staff.

Good prices, super friendly staff, love the transport upriver for an easy paddle back. Great day!

I love to rent kayaks and paddleboard’s from there when we go down wiki Wachee, the people are so nice and helpful. And it makes it even better that they’re right next to a bar so when you’re done you can drink up. That’s just a plus in the location!

Good spot to go kayaking. Very reasonably priced. You start by registering and then taking a van about 5 minutes away to a drop off point where you kayak back to the original destination. The total kayaking trip in the water without any break is about 2 ½ hours. In total it’s 5.5 miles. Beware of other community boats and kayakers who made loom in the waters. Some sharp turns but he water is 4 – 6 feet in depth from start to finish. Would definitely go again.

Great place to rent kayaks and such. Conveniently located across from
Rogers Park, they are easy to work with — if it can happen, they can make it happen. Next time you’re looking for a trip down the Weeki Wachee, let the folks at the Kayak Shack help you out.

We were so excited to come here after reading all the reviews but once we arrived 2 of the 3 men were very rude to us. They are not actually open until 6, they are open until 3. Dont be late, they will not even rent you a kayak at full price for half the time. We are on vacation and drove 2 hours to this location and they were not understanding at all. Very rude

See Jon Cone! Beautiful experience and I’m not an outdoorsman. Glad I made the trip.

I’m writing this review for those who might get scared or put off by the 5-​hour timeframe mentioned by many reviewers that it takes to kayak this 5.5-mile kayaking adventure.
As a first time single rider kayaker, I was a bit nervous after reading all the reviews on here and Tripadvisor that it takes about 5 hours to kayak the 5.5-mile route from the entrance of Weeki Wachee State Park back to The Kayak Shack. There are some reviews stating that if one does not stop, the route would take approximately 3 hours. Even the female parking attendant yesterday at The Kayak Shack told us «3 hours if you don’t stop». So we were mentally and physically prepared for at least 180 minutes workout. We brought snacks and tons of water with us. We made sure were fully prepared.
The tour from start to finish ONLY took us 1 hour and 45 minutes. This included the van transport to the head of the springs and the short wait for the staff to launch our kayaks. So please don’t be scared! It can be done much quicker if need be.
We didn’t stop to beach or swim. We didn’t see any manatees. The river was super busy. But nonetheless, we had an AMAZING time enjoying nature whilst getting some light exercise during this adventure. We did stop and watch some 20 something kayakers do some acrobatic ropes swings. Good times!
The Kayak Shack staff were all so easy and friendly. The reservation process was simple. We were even 1 hour late for our reservation as we were coming from afar. It wasn’t a problem. But I did give the business a courtesy call to let them know. Amber, the owner, was always the person I spoke to when I called.
We will definitely come back for a leisurely kayak, maybe even SUP next time. We will be using The Kayak Shack again. We are also bringing friends along with us next time. Maybe next time, we will go during the weekday. Hopefully, it won’t be so busy & and the manatees will come out to I’m writing this review for those who might get scared or put off by the 5-​hour timeframe mentioned by many reviewers that it takes to kayak this 5.5-mile kayaking adventure.
As a first time single rider kayaker, I was a bit nervous after reading all the reviews on here and Tripadvisor that it takes about 5 hours to kayak the 5.5-mile route from the entrance of Weeki Wachee State Park back to The Kayak Shack. There are some reviews stating that if one does not stop, the route would take approximately 3 hours. Even the female parking attendant yesterday at The Kayak Shack told us «3 hours if you don’t stop». So we were mentally and physically prepared for at least 180 minutes workout. We brought snacks and tons of water with us. We made sure were fully prepared.
The tour from start to finish ONLY took us 1 hour and 45 minutes. This included the van transport to the head of the springs and the short wait for the staff to launch our kayaks. So please don’t be scared! It can be done much quicker if need be.
We didn’t stop to beach or swim. We didn’t see any manatees. The river was super busy. But nonetheless, we had an AMAZING time enjoying nature whilst getting some light exercise during this adventure. We did stop and watch some 20 something kayakers do some acrobatic ropes swings. Good times!
The Kayak Shack staff were all so easy and friendly. The reservation process was simple. We were even 1 hour late for our reservation as we were coming from afar. It wasn’t a problem. But I did give the business a courtesy call to let them know. Amber, the owner, was always the person I spoke to when I called.
We will definitely come back for a leisurely kayak, maybe even SUP next time. We will be using The Kayak Shack again. We are also bringing friends along with us next time. Maybe next time, we will go during the weekday. Hopefully, it won’t be so busy & and the manatees will come out to play.
Tip: Watch for Mile Markers on your left to Rogers Park. That will guide you back to The Kayak Shack.

We have used the Kayak Shack for many years and it is by far the best place ever. We have our own kayaks but rarely bring them there because the prices and service are outstanding. The owners are great and the laid back feeling starts the minute you park your car. After many adventures, we keep coming back and bringing friends who need a day to slow down, enjoy, and just relax. If you are lucky, you might even see a manatee!

LOVE this place! It’s beautiful. Really enjoyed the entire trip! They are awesome, the scenery is beautiful. Our experience was wonderful. We used to go to crystal river but this was so much better. Can’t wait to go again!

This is one of the better boat rentals in Weeki Wachee. Its located right next to the Upper Deck, across from Roger’s Park. Each 1-​person kayak is $ 35. After you pay a shuttle will take you to the launching point on the Weeki Wachee River. It’s approximately 6 miles downstream.
It took us 5 hours to float down the river to Rogers Park, but we weren’t in any rush. You can easily get down in 3 hours if the current is flowing faster or you put minimal effort in it.
Keep in mind that during the summer and weekend, Weeki Wachee gets crowded. There are people on motorized boats, airboats, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards going up and down the river. You will run into people if you’re a novice and sometimes even if you have experience.
The ride is pretty good. I’ve seen Manatees a couple times but they are usually out in the morning. There is a couple spots near the end where you can climb up a tree and jump off into the water. Sometimes you’re see wildlife and sometimes you won’t. I’ve seen a couple birds and turtles.
If you come in the afternoon, make sure you pick The Kayak Shack. Reason: they let you stay out longer without paying an additional fee. I didn’t realize this until I saw the signs on some other rental places. Many of them charge an extra $ 35-​$ 50 if you come back after 5:30. The Kayak Shack lets you stay out until 7PM. The owner is a really cool and mellow guy who lives in the area.

After reading other Unilocal and Google reviews I chose this outfitter for a date with my husband. They did not disappoint. We rented two single kayaks for $ 35 a piece. The employees were very courteous, helpful and friendly. The equipment was in excellent condition. They drop you off and help you into the water to launch your boat. You kayak down a beautiful 5.5 mile River and end at the Kayak Shack where you can just get in your car and be on your way. I will use them again next time we come and recommend them to all. Bring along a dry bag/​box for your picnic lunch, drinks, phones. Bring a camera or Go Pro, so many great opportunities for photos and videos. We snorkeled near manatees and did rope swings and tree jumping!

We called a week in advance to make a reservation and the woman that took the call was very friendly. We called again a few days after we made our reservation to make a change to it and the gentleman that took the call was also very friendly. When we arrived at 9:30am we were lucky enough to grab the last spot in their parking lot. I am not sure whether or not they have another lot so this is something that you may want to call and ask about if you plan on going on a busy holiday weekend or if you plan on going later in the day. After we parked and grabbed everything that we planned to take with us in our kayaks, we walked over to the shack and checked in. The woman that assisted us with the waiver and that took our payment was very friendly. We paid $ 75 for 3 people for one 2 person kayak and one 1 person kayak. Right after we paid we got on a bus and took a 10 minute ride up to the drop off. The drop off was at Weeki Wachee Park. They will check your bags here so no bottles and no alcohol. Also, PLEASE DON’T LITTER while you are here. Protect our Earth! After your bags are checked they will load you up on your kayak and send you on your way. The trip is a total of 5.5 miles and will take anywhere from 3 – 5 hours depending on what you decide to do along the way. You can stop and swim, stop for a break, etc. Just follow the signs that say Rogers Park. The signs will also let you know how many more miles you have to go. There are also some cool ropes and spots where you can jump and swing into the water. When you get back to the shack they will unload you and then you are all done for the day.
Tips and other notes:
Leave your keys at the shack on their hanging clips. You do not want to lose your keys on the river.
The current can seem strong so if you are not a strong swimmer, stay in your kayak or wear a life vest.
Kayak rentals here are not by the hour so you get your money’s worth if you stay all day.
Bring everything with you that you need — snorkel gear, sunblock, snacks, water, water camera, etc.
If you see any wild life during your time, please just LET THEM BE. Do not disturb them, throw things at them, yell or scream at them, feed them, touch them, etc. Just leave them alone. Please.
Beware of banana spiders in the branches towards the edges of the river.
The customer service was great and we had a great time so this is a 5 for me :)

The kayak shack was a perfect surprise. They drive you up the the rivers head which I recommend because it’s hard to paddle up river. It’s more money but worth it. The 5 miles kayaking went by quick. But I was tired by the time I got there. Recommend.

We were cruising the area Memorial Day weekend 2015 after finding out that Weeki Wachee park gets MAXED out on busy weekends by locals and tourists by NOON! :(You literally CANNOT get in! A local motorcycle man suggested we rent a kayak and cruise down the river. 3-​hour estimated ride (We did it in 2 b/​c we did not stop to swim). What a great decision. My fiancée had never canoed or kayaked, and certainly had never seen a Florida freshwater spring, or spring-​fed river. What a great way to spend the day. Yes, it was busy on the river b/​c of the holiday weekend… so no wildlife except a few schooling fish, but the clarity and coolness of the water cannot be beat. Weather was partly cloudy (wear sunblock!!) and we did get soaked by a downpour at one point. But really, that just made it feel like Jurassic Park out there under the trees… on the river… awesome! Highly recommended with goggles or masks. And we hear that if you go on a non-​busy day (aka mid-​week) you can see pods of manatees out there. That must be amazing! (Just remember it’s illegal to approach a manatee, but they can approach you!) The staff at Kayak Shack was so nice, helpful and pleasant. I am definitely bringing friends and family up from south Florida to see the Dali museum in St. Pete, then coming up here for a day of kayaking… including stops to swim, snorkel, jump off the rope swings, and enjoy some of Florida’s most beautiful wildlife. What a great alternative to the packed parks like Busch Gardens and Disney World! PS: They have a place to leave your car keys (if you want). Just ask, they will show you. And «2 person kayaks» have a space in center for a 3^rd (smaller) person. Kids will love!

Very rude every time we have called. Never ended up renting from them because we felt like we were a inconvenience just by calling. The lady on the phone each time made it sound like it was a hassle just to say a friendly hello. We ended up going to the Christian camp and renting from them, such sweet people family run business. Sorry we wanted to like you but we appreciate gracious hospitality.

This was the most beautiful area of Florida I have seen. A scenic ride through Weeki Wachee Spring river on our tandem kayak that we rented for $ 40, single $ 35 and $ 10 for your own kayak. The water was refreshingly cool and definitely clear.
This was a 5 mile journey which provided opportunities to rest in shade, rope swing, jump off of tree branches or swim in the water. The rope swings were difficult since I am not strong in my upper body but was still thrilling to get on the single rope swing and fall in the water. As for the Kayak Shack the service was friendly and efficient.

We are new to florida and love this place. We have been here a few times. We have been able to play with manatees and other wildlife both times. Friendly staff! They give you everything you need and get you all
Set up in the water.
100% worth the drive! See you soon kayak shack!

Friendly, courteous staff. Open later than most kayak rental businesses. We made a last minute trip up from Tampa to kayak the Weeki Wachee. We arrived too late (after 2PM) for another kayak rental shop. They referred us to this shop since they were open until 7PM. We quickly drove down to The Kayak Shack, quick painless release form and we were in the van within 5 minutes to the springhead. The driver was very informative and gave us perfect advice and spring factoids on the way up… When we arrived at the springhead he rolled our kayak down to the water’s edge and pushed us off. When we arrived at The Kayak Shack post paddle, the staff ensured our safety exiting the kayak and brought our stuff up onto shore. Great experience. The best part is your dry clothes are footsteps away in your car, no hassle of heading in a van back up river in soaking wet, uncomfortable bathing suits.
Advice for trip down: water is clearest closest to the springhead so jump out and swim just after you pass the «leaving state park» sign, as you get further down river and the last two or so miles the water takes on a greenish tint. Bring ziplock bags and you can store your valuable stuff in the back of the yakak. Expect 3 – 4 hours to get down the river depending on how long you stop for a dip or how fast you paddle. Watch out for motor boats! The state park operates a boat that scares all the wildlife off and there are private boats that churn up the river, it can get close at times.

This is a great place for your kayaking or canoeing needs. It’s well planned and very affordable. 40 $ for 2 people on a canoe for as long as you like. The ride down the river was enchanting. Something you’d have to see to believe existed. 100% coming back. The gift shop was an extreme bonus to this place. If you forgot something, you’ll be sure to find it there, pricey… but, what can you expect.