Kayaking

Interested in starting a kayaking club, canoe club, or adventures club? Click here for details.

*NEW* Kayak Instruction

We've partnered with the American Canoe Association to offer you the national standard in kayak and canoe instruction. Instruction is available to USF Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Affiliates, and the public. If you're completely new to the sport sign up for the SmartStart clinic. We also offer advanced instruction in kayak and canoe skills. See details at the WaterLife Events page.

Kayak Checkout

One of the most popular things to do at the Waterfront is to check out a kayak. It is a great activity to do between classes or if you are looking for a great way to spend a nice day outside.

The Waterfront features kayaks by Ocean Kayak. These kayaks are "Sit on top" design. They are completely sealed so they cannot sink even if you manage to flip one over. They are also self draining if any water comes over the top. No experience is necessary. These kayaks are very stable, safe and easy to learn to use.

You can launch a kayak from the Waterfront and venture along the shoreline of Tampa Bay along Downtown St. Petersburg.

You can also checkout the kayaks for off campus use. The boats are checked out in 24 hour increments. This is a popular way to explore other natural areas around Florida.

The Waterfront has single as well as double kayaks. So bring a friend. The double kayaks are very suitable for a parent kayaking with a child.

Kayak checkout information:
Simply present a valid USF ID to the Waterfront staff and we will get you started with everything you need. We will provide you with a PFD, paddle, and seat.

The kayaks are available from 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., 7 days a week. Kayaks are available on a first come/first served basis. You may bring a guest with you if you like.

Kayak Adventures

The kayak adventure trips are a wonderful way to visit some of the area’s most beautiful kayaking destinations. No serious kayaking experience is necessary.

Kayak Adventure Day Trip – We’ll transport the kayaks to one of our area’s beautiful Aquatic Preserves and kayak for the afternoon.  No experience necessary.  We will travel as a group. Next Trips: Weedon Island on Saturday, September 13 and Shell Key on Sunday October 12.

Snorkel & Kayak Adventure Day Trip – We’ll travel to the Rainbow River to spend the afternoon kayaking and snorkeling in the natural spring water.  We might even see a manatee! Next trip: Sunday, November 2

Kayak adventures are open to Students, Faculty, Staff, USF Affiliates, Active USF Alumni Association members, and the General Public.

For current schedules and more information contact Zac Oppenheim by email zpo@spadmin.usf.edu or by phone at 727-873-4948 or stop by the Waterfront Office in Coquina Hall 108.

*NEW* Kayak Fishing

Learn the how to catch your favorite fish in our local waters by signing up for one of our new Fishing Clinics. See the WaterLife Events page for details about dates, times, and costs for the Fishing Clinic Series. We have two new "Angler Edition" ocean kayaks and two that The Waterfront Staff have converted for fishing use. These boats are, of course, still available for recreational use. You are responsible for following all rules and regulations regarding fishing activities.

For current activity rates click here

Sponsored by USFSP Office of Student Life and Engagement