Q: What is a tandem kayak?
A: It’s a kayak for 2 people.
Q: Is a tandem kayak for me?
A: There are pros and cons. The advantage of tandem kayaking is having two motors (people) on board. If there is a significantly weaker paddler, then this can be the way to go. A possible disadvantage of tandem kayaking is that it takes much more communication and synchronization to paddle straight and steer. This presents a problem for some pairs. New paddlers often have an easier time in a single kayak, where they only have to worry coordinating themselves. Paddling side-by-side with your fellow paddlers can be a more social experience as well. Either way, we’ve got you covered.
Q: Are Lifejackets provided?
A: Yes! Lifejackets are provided as part of your tour and you are required to wear them for legal and safety reasons.
Q: What is the minimum age for paddlers?
A: Children 10 years and up can participate in our guided tours and paddle their own kayak while under adult supervision or share a tandem kayak with an adult.
Q: What is the Cancellation Policy?
A: We have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you cancel or no-show less than 24 hours from the day of your paddle, you are still financially committed to your reservation.
Q: What if It’s Rainy/Windy?
A: If the day of your paddle we are experiencing inclement weather and are forced to cancel a tour due to safety concerns, you will receive a full refund. However, if we continue to run tours on that day we will hold you to the reservation. Please check weather conditions so that you may plan accordingly.
Q: What do I wear to go kayaking or paddle boarding?
A: You should wear clothing and footwear that will dry quickly.Synthetic (usually polyester) clothing is usually the best.Cotton clothing dries the slowest, and therefore will make you feel colder. Sandals or water shoes are better than sneakers. Bringing a waterproof, windbreaker jacket is a good idea. Sun protection is a must because of the reflection off the water.
Q: Is there an Entrance Fee for Sand Harbor State Park?
A: Yes, $15 cash per car
Q: What are Sand Harbor State Park’s Hours?
A: 7am – 7pm
Q: What is the Parking Situation like at Sand Harbor State Park, I’ve heard it can be challenging?
A: ARRIVE EARLY! Sand Harbor State Park is very popular and has limited parking. During peak season and holidays (mid-June through mid September) the parking lot often reaches max capacity within 30 minutes of when the park opens its gates at 7AM. Arriving at or before 7AM is always a good idea. Please note there are two entrances to Sand Harbor State Park; one for general vehicles and one for BOATS ONLY. Please go to the general parking (south entrance) to avoid being turned around by the parks service (unless you are also bringing your own boat). We recommend that our customers arrive no later than 7AM during the peak months of summer. If this timeline doesn’t fit with your vacation plans, we offer rentals and tours at our Tahoe City Commons Beach location where parking isn’t restrictive to getting to the water www.tahoecitykayak.com .
Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Sand Harbor State Park does not allow dogs in the State Park. We do allow dogs on our rental kayaks and paddleboards at our Tahoe City Commons Beach location www.tahoecitykayak.com .
Q: What are the average water temperatures of the water in Lake Tahoe?
A: May: 50.2F, June: 57.4F, July: 65.7F, Aug: 67.8F, Sept: 64.9F, Oct: 58.3F
Q: Do I need a wetsuit?
A: No. Neoprene wetsuits are designed to work best when you are actually wet or immersed in water. While the water temperature is cool, the sun and air temperature make for a great paddling experience as you typically dry quickly and warm up if you do jump into the lake. While there’s nothing wrong with wearing a wetsuit to paddle in Lake Tahoe, most people find them to be too hot, clammy (they don’t breathe), and uncomfortable for summer-time lake paddling. You’re welcome to bring your own, but it’s usually better to bring a change of clothes in a dry bag for the rare event that you capsize.
Q: Do people fall in the water often?
A: No.The wider, more recreational kayaks and SUPs are very difficult to tip over. Staying relaxed and not fighting the rocking of the boat (or board) is usually the best strategy. For large boat wakes, point your paddle-craft directly into the wake instead oftaking the wave broadside. Sit-on-top kayaks and paddleboards generally don’t fill with water, so it’s fairly easy to get back on board and continue paddling.
Q: Will I get wet while kayaking or paddleboarding at Lake Tahoe?
A: Yes! You are doing a watersport. You will definitely get splashed and dripped on. You are unlikely to get soaked. Your feet and rear end will almost definitely get a little wet.