We had a fantastic three-hour kayaking adventure with Paddles Outdoor Rentals. My friend and I decided to skip the guided tour and paddle out on our own. Our goal was simple: get a good workout in and enjoy being on the water. Manatees, if we saw them, would just be a bonus. Well... let's just say the bonuses showed up. The staff was super friendly, incredibly patient, and genuinely helpful. Their recommendations about where to paddle made all the difference and set us up for a great route. We got our workout, soaked in the beauty of the water, and had some wonderful manatee encounters along the way. Peaceful, magical, and just the right amount of adventure. Great people, smooth process, and a memorable day on the water. read more

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This was my second time using Paddles Outdoor Rentals and I definitely would recommend them! They have knowledgable guides, great equipment, and are timely with everything. We saw like a million manatees and even got to go out 15 minutes early to take full advantage. read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

We did the kayaking and snorkeling tour to the Three Sisters Springs off of Kings Bay in Crystal River, Fl. We didn't get to see any manatees as it wasn't quite their time to come into that area but we enjoyed snorkeling in the clear waters of the springs. The tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. They do have a bathroom at the building where you check in as well as sundry items for sale you may need. They have a complementary locker for you to store your vehicle keys if needed. Then you hop in the van and they drive you a couple minutes away to the launch where the kayaks were already lined up for us. All in all it was a fun tour and I'd love to come back during manatee season and try the glass bottom tour. read more

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Fun outdoor activity with great potential for getting a full day of exercise in. We had a blast! One improvement to Paddles Outdoor that I would recommend is to attach some form of short rope to each kayak so that renters could tie up their kayaks while taking a dip at the springs. The springs were PACKED with people and we found it kind of lame not being to swim together because one person had to make sure the kayaks didn't float away. read more

We went on a clear kayaking tour with Kenzie today. She was amazing. Our youngest granddaughter was insecure and Kenzie put her on her paddleboard and charmed the fear right out of that 4 year old. We saw lots of manatees and all 3 of my grandchildren loved it read more

We had a great time! Our guide Kyle was very knowledgeable, friendly, and had sharp eye for pointing out the manatees. We saw a ton of them as well as turtles, two bald eagles, and many other birds and wildlife. read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

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Equipment in good condition. Pre instructions clear. Staff helpful and nice. Great area to kayak. Manatees abound. Would do again

Easy reservation process online. Never checked the email but there are videos and a waiver you can do instead of waiting until you get to the store. FYI, it will help the check in process move faster. The chica with the braid (sorry didn't get her name) was friendly, professional, and patient with all of our questions. I loved the cute gifts they had in their store. Rented paddle boards for 3hrs, but only regret not getting them for longer. They have a launch area where they keep the items so you are not having to tote everything in your vehicle. Would def rec this place for rentals! read more

We had an amazing time! We got to see some manitees! Our guide was very knowledgeable and the whole staff was so kind and helpful.

Was our gangs 4 trip was taken care of by the office staff and workers and in the water in less than a 30 minutes and as usual was quite crowded beautiful day this trip saw many manatees this trip great way to spend the day with friends and family would definitely highly recommend this company been coming back for the last 4 years read more

We get to see many manatees and other animals! our guide Kyle was amazing. We had som much fun!!!

Incredible experience! Cypress & her team were fantastic. 10/10 recommend! We will definitely be back again.

Fantastic sunset tour - Cypris is a wonderful guide. We had the best time - saw a dolphin, multiple turtles, tons of fish and an otter eating his dinner. Can't beat the sunset either. read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Jon was a great guide. Fun, adventurous experience! Well organized although booking on on the third party link was a little unclear.

This review is for the Kayak and Swim with Manatees am Tour -- we went in December during Christmas week. I'll talk 3 key points: 1. Customer expectations and service, 2. the tour itself / our guide, and 3. Recommendations to improve. 1. My husband and I booked online -- very simple, got the invoice and instructions in my email. We were able to sign our waiver and watch our two videos on manatee manners ahead of the tour time, which was extremely convenient. When we arrived, we went to the front desk to check in. There was a younger girl and a curly haired guy sitting at the front desk. The girl was friendly and gave us initial instructions to get wristbands then head to get a wetsuit, which she assisted with. However the other folks checking in were receiving a full brief from the other woman at the front desk (she mentioned she had an 11 year old, didn't catch her name either). We got none of that from our girl, which resulted in my confusion and having to walk back into the desk twice to ask questions about where we were getting the rest of our gear, when we were leaving etc. The instructions make it very clear and very serious about the tour starting on time / your time on the water starting at the designated booking time. However, despite us being ready, the rest of our group was not, and that resulted in not getting to launch / on the water until 9 am. 30 minutes of our tour time lost. 2. The tour itself was great. Our guide was Julia, we give her 5 stars all around. I do have a recommendation toward #3 to make the tour better as a guide. She worked hard to point out manatees and to orient our group appropriately. It wasn't super busy which was great; allowed us the leeway to swim around the entire Jurassic and house spring area. We saw quite a few while in the water and I personally had a mama and baby calf swim right by me! Great experience. Julia was knowledgeable and pointed out several things in the area / provided info on the manatees that was appropriate for the tour. Loved. Unfortunately, there was a family with us that had two boys -- the boys were not abiding by the rules. They were consistently kicking in the water and despite multiple Lind corrections by Julia, their mother and father failed to correct them. The youngest boy consistently kept ramming into my kayak during the tour and even kicked my husband while swimming. Overall, wish we could have selected a private tour option because dealing with other families and their misbehaving children was not on my bucket list. 3. Recommendations to make this a 5 star wow-tour: - the intake folks all need to have the same brief / give full instructions to guests. They shouldn't assume we'll figure it by herd mentality. - weird thing but the wetsuit drop and goggles drop should be co-located? Odd they're in two separate places. Not only that, but maybe change the sign -- it states to check in with the front desk before dropping wetsuits, but when my husband did, the same girl from before was confused and just told him to go put it in the bin outside. Duh. - allocate more time for guests to figure out their gear (wetsuit / sign in) or keep to your timeline / assertion in the email. If I'm paying for 2.5 hours I'd like to get 2.5 hours not 2 because the family of 4 was slow in the morning. - guides should probably get names in the group as an ice breaker and a way to get folks' attention. Julia consistently was saying "hey sir" to one of the fathers in the group; could have helped the group break things up a bit too. Overall, I would recommend this rental and tour place to others; would probably come back again but try a different time of year. I enjoyed myself but it wasn't an awe inspiring trip or experience for me today. Thanks! read more

Recently purchased a home in the area and I purchased a SUP but am not familiar with where I should drop my board. I decided I'd go out on a tour guided kayak trip. It was the best thing I could have done! Kyle with a smile, this is what they call him and rightfully so! He was an AMAZING tour guide and made it a lot of fun for everyone! He always has a smile on his face and has great energy. When we started our trip on the water, it started to rain a bit. It was incredible! We were on the water and possibly get wet anyhow. I think it made it more exciting. Kyle with a smile made sure to communicate with us and if any of us were not comfortable with the rain, he would have helped us possibly reschedule. Everyone was game and stoked about being out on the water. I highly recommend this company if you're looking for any rentals! read more

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My boyfriend and I had a fantastic time! Our tour guide Cypris was awesome. She showed us so many cool places, told us so many cool facts, and you could tell she loves her job! read more

Kyle w a smile , great guide very knowledgeable and entertaining ! Ladies at the shop, super helpful and very cute merch ! Fun experience !

We drove 200 miles to go transparent kayaking with the team. We rented a car especially for this trip! We were warned that the tour would start at 12:00. We arrived at 11:50 and were told that we were late and should arrive at 11:30! and no one wanted to listen to us or offer any other options except to pay another $98 for 2 regular kayaks and sail on our own! It seems like they just stole our money - $237 and will do the same to anyone for any reason! It's terrible that they treat tourists like this. P.S. - Transparent kayaks are very scratchy! The water is muddy and there are a lot of people! Your worker showed me this information on his computer. But we didn't have such information! And when we arrived you didn't make any concessions! You said either pay more or leave! I wasn't rude, I tried to clarify the situation but I didn't find out anything! And as I said earlier, such clear water and beautiful places as in your advertisement, we didn't see it! There was muddy water, lots of people and a different landscape! read more

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Even though they accidentally Scheduled us wrong, they made it up to us! What a great outfit to rent kayaks! We had a great time. read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Kids love the kayak trip - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

I had the best experience out on Kings Bay today thanks to the amazing staff, especially Kota!!!! (hope I spelled his name right) He went above and beyond to help me on and off my board and onto the moving platform. He didn't have to be so caring, but he took the time to hold my hand and make sure I felt safe and comfortable. That kindness meant so much to me and made my day so much easier and more enjoyable. People like Kota make all the difference, and I am forever grateful for his thoughtfulness. Thank you for having such a wonderful, compassionate team member! Seriously. read more

We had some friends visiting from out of state that had never seen a Manatee so we jumped online to find a place we could go to and Kayak near the springs. These folks had a very easy web site to schedule on and get everything we needed. When we showed up there was a quick video to watch and we were in our way. The staff was very helpful ensuring we got into the Tandem Kayaks without too much trouble. We decided not to use a guide so it was more of an adventure but they do offer that service as well. We had a great time thanks for everything you do we will be back! read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Great fun! Kyle was a great guide and we learned a lot from the tour- we saw one Manatee- actually at the pier- good time!

Easy, affordable and the staff was so friendly, respectful and knowledgeable! Had a great time! read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Three sisters springs. The water was so clear! - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Great experience renting water bikes from Paddles Outdoor Rentals. Our party of 5 had a fun time biking around Crystal Rivers and we also saw two manatees! The shop is nice with some options for last minute purchases and a bathroom. We were shuttled down the the water to jump on our bikes and given a thorough orientation - each bike has two large cup holders and a medium-sized enclosed container to hold other items. Would recommend! read more

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Awesome day on the water! RJ is a great guide, very knowledgeable and most importantly, very Eco-conscious and protective of the manatees! We saw lots and lots of manatees and learned so much. 10/10 would go again! read more

Went out on a kayak tour yesterday with RJ - the day was super hot, very windy and the area was crowded with people. We had a fabulous time. The check in was easy. The shop has lots of cute things and any necessities if you happened to forget (sunscreen/sunshirt/etc). The AC is welcoming and there is a bathroom as well. The women who checked us in were informative and helpful - we asked several questions as this was our first time here. Boarded a van for a 3 minute drive - and we were quickly at the dock, where all our kayak supplies were waiting for us. Given the environmental conditions - RJ set the stage for the day - letting us know which parts would be tough given the wind and people traffic - and he spent time with each of us in the group to make sure we were ready and comfortable. For reference - our tour group had adults and children (under 10) and people new to kayaking. The tour itself it less of a 'tour' and more of a group journey. RJ kept us on the right path, checking in on each of us frequently. He made special effort to greet people we passed - ensuring they could see our group and were friendly. It's these little things that really demonstrate professionalism. The day was glorious and it was the most fun! We did not see any manatees yesterday - it's off season and only a few stay year-round in this area - it's a lottery if you see them this time of year. We didn't care at all - and we absolutely plan to come back! The experience was an absolute joy and I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend the day. Side note - RJ did end up towing someone back - so if you are worried that the adventure is too much - don't worry. Summary - whether you see manatees or not, the tour and the staff (especially RJ) make this a perfect choice! read more

I'm so happy to have found Paddles Outdoors Rental's and have used their services several times. The owner Chris and all his staff are fun but very professional in making sure my experience was always unforgettable. My last rental for kayaks was when my parents arrived from California and wanted to experience the manatees. December weather is cold but the waters are always 72 degrees. However, for comfort, we were provided wet suits and Jessica ensured my parents were doing well and they had an experience of a lifetime! Afterwards, hot chocolate was provided. I'm so happy they'll go home with memories they'll never forget!! read more

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Absolutely fantastic experience! We rented water bikes, so easy and fun!! You can stand up when your butt gets tired and it's a great way to see the manatees. We saw tons of manatees and they loved our bikes constantly swimming under and following us. This is a family owned business, very kind, professional, and Clean. I plan to come back again with my family read more

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Newer locally owned paddle shop. Did a kayak tour with Jessica. We were on 3 tandem kayaks and she was on a stand up paddle board. She was very knowledgeable about the fish, birds and fo had us a couple of manatees at the end! She took lots of pictures that she shared with us. Would definitely do this again when we have guests in town. Check them out! read more

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If you plan to visit Three Sisters this is the place to rent your kayak, pedalboard, snorkel, and other equipment. You pay here, watch a mandatory video, fill out some forms, and you are ready to go. Drive down to the launching dock, where parking is $5. Get your stuff and enjoy your time. Friendly staff, and rooms to charge are also available. read more

this place is awesome! best rates for kayak rentals at crystal river and everyone was super awesome and sweet!

Didn't live up to expectations, not as beautiful as promised, muddy water and too many people.

We called 5 places from google before we got to this one from Yelp. This place was the nicest and most accommodating for our last minute party of 9 that came from Tampa!! This will be our go to spot for all our water rentals and referrals when we return to Crystal Springs!! The store was so cute, bright, clean and very inviting inside and outside when compared to the other local rental stores we had called and drove to. There is a cute section filled with souvenirs. The rental inventory was new and clean. Restroom was clean. Staff drops rentals off at Hunters Springs Park. They were all nice and gave us a map and life jackets. Military Discount was very much appreciated as 3 of us served/serves. FYI: Don't go to the restaurant suggested/referred to do (that restaurant was not nice to any of us...rolled eyes at us and told us they couldn't serve us). read more

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We had read about Crystal Springs and wanted to see it for ourselves. It is only accessible by watercraft so we decided to go with Paddles. The only option here is with the clear kayaks, that's fine but it would have been more enjoyable with the option of a paddle board. Our guide was on a paddle board and we had the kayaks, they are in good shape and easy to maneuver. A storm had passed while we were headed out to the the spring, no surprise, it's Florida. We all got wet and kept on going, and used an underpass for coverage. Unfortunately, we did not see any manatee in the area this time, possibly because it's too warm right now. This is definitely not the tour if you are set on seeing manatee as some were. We headed out to the spring and it is peaceful and the water is absolutely amazing but keep in mind, there is no swimming on this tour. We didn't mind, as we didn't plan on it, but others were unaware. Our guide was fun and she took photos of us, they were available for purchase afterwards , but we had our own water camera and it was perfect. The meeting location is easy to find, a dirt parking lot located across the street, and you are transported by van to the local launch site not far away. From there you are given a life jacket, your kayak, and off you go! It's a fun few hours, very slow paced, easy for all to do, and a good experience but I wouldn't do it again. Happy paddling! read more

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Kiontae is an amazing tour guide and did an exceptional job leading us to manatees as the season is closing. He did a great job telling us about them and teaching us about the area as well. Everything was perfect and we will be back to do this again with Kiontae during a busier time! read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - A momma, poppa, and baby manatee family that was swimming with us - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Paddles has the friendliest staff!! Everyone was so kind, helpful & patient. They allowed my hood doggo to come too! It was a last. 11/10 recommend read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

This was an awesome day kayaking around the manatees. Kyle was an great guide, very knowledgeable and entertaining. The guided tour was well worth it! read more

We rented a tandem kayak and wetsuits for 2 hrs. It was 46 degrees this morning, so the wetsuits were a must. Paddled to the entrance of Three Sisters Spring (which is closed to swimming for the Manatee breeding season). Saw lots of Manatees near the entrance and dozens and dozens in breeding groups in the closed areas. Renting the kayak was easy and we met the crew at the boat launch. They had our kayak waiting for us on the water. We were given a map and told where to go. Saw lots of Manatees on the paddle to the bridge. Highly recommend this outfit. read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Manatee - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

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Had an awesome tour with Marleigh. Saw a lot of manatees even after concerns about this not being the season. This was our favorite part of our week long vacation in Florida. read more

Paddles Outdoor Rentals - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Crystal River, Florida