Updated June 2020
When visiting Ohio's Lake Erie Shores & Islands, you'll likely want to get out on the lake in some fashion. Water recreation is an essential source of activity in the summer and the options are endless here. Practicing water safety is imperative; always wear a life jacket. For jet ski and wave runner rentals, all drivers born after January 1, 1982 must have an Ohio Boating License or be able to pass a test administered at the time of the rental. Please note that the following are listed in alphabetical order:
- Clemons Boats
8009 Barrett Rd., Sandusky
Boat rentals are available for almost any use - fishing, skiing, tubing, or just boat riding and sightseeing on Sandusky Bay or Lake Erie. See website for important requirements. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended.
- Coupling MetroPark
11618 SR 13, Milan
Canoes, paddles, and life jackets available with advanced reservations for use on the Huron River.
- Endless Summer Island Charters
at East Harbor State Park Marina
2188 N. Buck Rd. (SR 269), Marblehead
Jet Ski rentals, shipwreck diving, and tubing. Overnight accommodations, winery tours, and cave tours can be arranged. Weekday, evening cruises, entire weekends, and packages available. Specializing in Lake Erie island tours, snorkeling, fishing, sunset cruises, and beach picnics.
- Erie Shore Wave Runners
at Captain’s Corner Marina
655 W. River Rd., Vermilion
Hourly wave runner rentals on the Vermilion River with access to Lake Erie within a 2.5 mile riding radius with an escort for safety.
- Freedom Boat Club
4422 Barnum Rd., Port Clinton
Become a member and rent from a selection of boats without the hassle and responsibilities of owning. Choose your boat, including fishing boats, deck boats, bow riders, pontoons, and cruisers.
- Jet Ski the Bay
next to Bayshore Resort
Bath St., Put-in-Bay
Jet Ski rental is by the half hour and can be reserved online. Areas marked with buoys for Jet Skis. 2 ½ hour guided tours also available.
- Kayak The Bay, LTD
760 Bayview Ave., Put-in-Bay
Rent a kayak and explore Put-in-Bay harbor and Lake Erie. See the limestone cliffs of Gibraltar Island and South Bass Island. Guided tours also available. Great for beginners, families, and large groups. See the third tallest national monument, collect beach glass, get adventurous and explore, or have lunch on neighboring islands. If you can ride a bike, you can kayak the bay. - Kelleys Island Kayak Rental
N. end of Division St., Kelleys Island
Located at Kelleys Island State Park on the beautiful and sandy public beach. No reservations; first-come, first-served. Must be 18 years or older with photo ID to sign rental agreement. Children under 16 years allowed on the kayaks, but must be accompanied by an adult. - KRV Boat Charters
800 Clinton Reef Dr., Dock 63, Port Clinton
Do you love being on the water but do not have time to take care of a boat? KRV Boat Charters has fishing, tubing, and island trip charters as well as overnight charters to enjoy the night life at the islands. - Lakeside Chautauqa Watercraft Rentals
236 Walnut Ave., Lakeside
Sunfish sailboat, kayak, and paddleboat rentals available daily in-season. Must be at least 18 years of age with a valid driver's license. Gate fee required in-season.
- Lakevue Marina
8549 E. Northshore Blvd., Marblehead
Kayak rentals.
- North Coast Parasail & Water Sports
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky
Experience the thrills of WaveRunner riding and parasailing from the beach behind Cedar Point's Hotel Breakers.
- Paddle & Climb
305 E. Water St., Sandusky
Take a rental kayak or standup paddle board out on Sandusky Bay or climb to the top of a 35ft indoor rock climbing wall.
- The Paddle Shack
1 Nickel Plate Dr., Huron
Enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or just floating in the water on a large aqua mat or inflatable. Beach chairs, umbrellas, and other beach items are available for rent. Reservations accepted but not required. Off-season rentals, Huron River trips, and other local excursions are available by appointment.
- Port Clinton Yacht Charters
3190 W. Lakeshore Dr. (SR 163), Port Clinton
Eight-passenger pontoon boats for rent by the hour on the Portage River. Security deposit and valid driver's license required. Must be at least 21 years or older. Please call for details.
- Portage River Paddling Company
3134 West Harbor Rd., Port Clinton
170 Mill St., Oak Harbor
Spend an hour, or the day exploring the wild and scenic Portage River. Enjoy the eagles, herons, turtles, and other abundant wildlife. Take a trip down the river or rent by the hour from either location; just minutes from downtown Port Clinton on 94-acres, or downtown Oak Harbor behind the hardware store. Rent single kayaks, double kayaks, canoes,stand-up paddle boards, and pedal boats (Oak Harbor location only). Open May-Oct. - Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals
at South Bass Island State Park, Middle Bass Island State Park & Kelleys Island State Park
WaveRunners, Jet Skis, boats, kayaks, and power boats for up to four riders. Reservations can be made in advance at their website or in person. Kayak rentals only at the Kelleys Island location. - West River Paddling Co.
at Captain's Corner Marina
655 W. River Rd., Vermilion
Offering kayaks (single & tandem), paddleboards, canoes, and all safety equipment and basic instructions.
