Calm-water paddling with a beach stop on the Rivanna
2 hrs
Boat or SUP, life jacket, paddle
Explore calm Rivanna River waters near the launch, with room to paddle upstream or downstream. Visit a downriver beach, then paddle back to the launch point without a shuttle.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before start. No-shows are charged the full price. Full refund if the operator cancels due to dangerous weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Product ID: 8FRPY2
Bring one cell phone for safety, water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a brimmed hat, and any needed medications. One dry bag per group is available free of charge; leave valuables and other electronics locked in your car.
Plan to get wet. Wear a bathing suit or shorts, a shirt with sleeves, and water shoes, tennis shoes, or sturdy sandals with heel straps. Flip-flops and bare feet are not allowed.
The Rivanna River paddle rental runs rain or shine unless weather or river conditions pose an unacceptable risk. If it is canceled for unsafe conditions, it can be rescheduled or refunded.
Rivanna River Company, 1520 E High St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
This riverside spot in Charlottesville has built a loyal following around a surprisingly diverse mix of activities, from sauna and cold plunge sessions to kayaking, tubing, paintball, and live music. The common thread across all of it is genuinely warm, attentive staff who seem to care about making each visit memorable. Thoughtful details like essential oils, ginger lemon tea, lavender towels, and a gathering fire between sauna sessions show real intention behind the experience. The sauna and cold plunge offering draws especially passionate reviews, with couples and groups alike calling it deeply relaxing and beautifully designed. The setting along the Rivanna River adds a natural backdrop that elevates even the simpler activities. Paintball gets a shoutout for being a great outlet for high-energy groups, though fair warning from regulars: long sleeves and pants are a must. With a near-perfect rating across a large number of reviews, this place clearly delivers consistently and is worth adding to your plans.
We rented kayaks and SUPs at the end of August with our kids. It was such a great time! Great set up, pretty setting, convenient, friendly staff. Also they have delicious popsicles for after the water. We are from out of state, but if we return to Charlottesville, we will be back!
Heather G
August 22, 2026
We rented kayaks and SUPs at the end of August with our kids. It was such a great time! Great set up, pretty setting, convenient, friendly staff. Also they have delicious popsicles for after the water. We are from out of state, but if we return to Charlottesville, we will be back!
Heather G
August 22, 2026
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