Paddle calm Lake Mendota waters with included gear and route tips
1 hour
Safety gear, paddles, instruction
Explore Lake Mendota at your own pace on a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Launch from protected waters with shoreline views and staff recommendations for nearby routes.
Get a full refund or reschedule up to 24 hours before your reserved time. No refunds or reschedules are available on the day of the rental. Full refund or rescheduling is available if the operator cancels due to weather, equipment, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Product ID: YNQNJZ
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, snacks, and comfortable clothing and shoes. Pack snacks responsibly.
Lake Mendota can be busy with recreational boats, fishing, and other water activities. Stay mindful of other watercraft and fishing lines; routes and conditions can vary with traffic and weather.
Marshall Boats, 2101 Allen Blvd., Middleton, WI 53562
This rental operation on motor-free Lake Wingra has earned a devoted following among Madison locals and visitors alike. The staff consistently gets praised for being genuinely helpful and friendly, with one family even calling out team members by name after they came to the rescue when wind pushed their paddle boat into lily pads. The setting itself is beautiful and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the water. Practicalities are well thought out here. They offer reasonable rates on kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddle boats, plus helpful touches like free lockers with locks so you can safely stash your valuables while you're out exploring. The equipment selection is solid, with various life jacket sizes and styles available. One reviewer mentioned their specific boat reservation wasn't honored but appreciated getting a refund for the difference. Just know that cancellation policies appear fairly strict, so plan accordingly before booking.
Tucked behind the bike path and in full view of the petite and beautiful Lake Wingra is Wingra Boats. Take your pick of kayak, canoe, stand up paddle board (SUP), or even a giant swan paddle boat. The people who work there are amazing and super friendly and very helpful. Join for the season, the price is fantastic and you can paddle as often as you like.
Daniel Fogel
August 31, 2026
Tucked behind the bike path and in full view of the petite and beautiful Lake Wingra is Wingra Boats. Take your pick of kayak, canoe, stand up paddle board (SUP), or even a giant swan paddle boat. The people who work there are amazing and super friendly and very helpful. Join for the season, the price is fantastic and you can paddle as often as you like.
Daniel Fogel
August 31, 2026
Launch from Monona Bay and paddle past Madison’s waterfront sights with instruction included
Rent 10+ boats for 1 hour on Monona Bay with instruction included
Rent a boat on Lake Wingra for 2 hours with instruction included
Relax on a captained pontoon cruise from The Edgewater
Reserve a rooftop patio with Lake Mendota views for your next event
Cruise or fish on a pontoon with lounge seating, rod holders, and a fish finder
Reserve a private grill area by Wingra Park for your next get-together
Paddle from Brittingham Boats with 3-hour rentals and included instruction
Paddle Monona Bay with a 2-hour boat rental and on-site instruction