TEMPE KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Tandem Hard-Kayak Rentals on Tempe’s Waters: A Simple, Durable Way to Explore the Desert Lakes
A straight-to-the-point guide to renting a 13.5' two-person hard kayak in Tempe—what’s supplied, how long you get it, and the logistics you need to plan for a day on the water.
Tandem Hard-Kayak Rentals on Tempe’s Waters: A Simple, Durable Way to Explore the Desert Lakes.
Adventure brief
Tandem Hard-Kayak Rentals on Tempe’s Waters: A Simple, Durable Way to Explore the Desert Lakes
Hard-sided tandem kayaks are built for the flatwater of desert lakes and slow rivers; Riverbound Sports rents 13.5-foot, two-person boats that carry up to 500 pounds and come supplied with seats, paddles, PFDs and the transport hardware you need to move them from shop to launch.
Experience the thrill and tranquility of paddling through Tempe’s scenic waterways with the Hard Kayak Rental for Two offered by Riverbound Sports Paddle Co. This private kayak rental adventure is perfect for couples, friends, or families who want to explore Arizona’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle at their own pace. The sturdy hard kayaks provide excellent stability and control, making them ideal for beginners and intermediate paddlers alike. As you glide along the gentle waters around Tempe Town Lake, you’ll catch stunning views of the city skyline, local wildlife, and the striking desert landscape. Riverbound Sports Paddle Co. ensures all equipment is well-maintained and easy to use, and their staff are available for safety tips and route guidance. Whether you are looking for a peaceful paddle at sunrise, a fun afternoon escape, or a sunset adventure with spectacular colors, this two-person kayak rental offers flexibility and freedom. The urban and natural blend of Tempe creates an unforgettable experience where you can soak up Arizona’s sunshine while staying active and connected to nature. Don’t miss the chance to explore Tempe’s waterways in a unique, fun, and engaging way.
Route Schematic
Route & Logistics Schematic
The rental experience is a short sequence of practical stops: pickup and checkout, transport and launch, on-water time, and return.
Shop Pickup & Checkout
Begin at Riverbound Sports—pick up your tandem, confirm the included kit (seats, paddles, PFDs, straps, foam roof rack) and, if arranged, collect gear the evening before for early starts.
Load, Secure & Drive to Launch
Use the supplied foam block roof rack and tie‑down straps to secure the 13.5' boat to most 4‑door vehicles or carry it in a pickup truck; foam racks and straps are provided on a first‑come basis.
On‑Water Exploration
With two PFDs and two paddles included, you and a partner can paddle stable, hard-sided kayaks across desert lakes or gentle river sections for the allotted rental day.
Return & Equipment Drop‑Off
Bring the kayak and all supplied equipment back to the shop by the end of business (same‑day rentals run 9:00 AM–5:30 PM); late returns automatically incur additional fees.
Boats are rated to 500 lb; renters are responsible for transporting and safeguarding equipment if they take gear overnight (early pickup is available for a fee), and Riverbound does not provide delivery—plan vehicle capacity and secure storage accordingly.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
You collect the tandem at Riverbound Sports in Tempe, rig it to your vehicle with the provided foam blocks and straps, drive to a local launch, then spend a full day—typically within the 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM rental window—exploring calm waters in a stable, hard-shell boat before returning the equipment to the shop by close of business.
THE BOAT
Sturdy Tandem: 13.5' with 500‑lb Capacity
Each hard-sided tandem is 13.5 feet long and rated to carry up to 500 pounds—enough room for two adults and modest gear—making these boats a reliable choice for day trips on desert waterways.
THE RENTAL PACKAGE
Everything You Need to Get on the Water
Rentals include the kayak with two seats, two paddles, two PFDs, tie-down straps and a foam block roof rack so you can transport and launch without hunting down extra gear.
THE SCHEDULE
Full-Day Window, Early-Pickup Option
Standard full-day rentals run from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM the same day, and for a small fee you can pick gear up the night before (5:00–6:00 PM) to get an earlier start on hot summer days.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Full‑day rentals run 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM the same day; early pickup the evening before is available between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM for an additional charge.
Each rental includes the tandem kayak, two seats, two paddles, two PFDs (life jackets), tie‑down straps and a foam block roof rack for transport.
Can be carried on most 4‑door vehicles with a roof rack or in a pickup truck; foam racks and straps are provided on a first‑come basis—delivery is not provided, so you must pick up and return at the shop.
Pick up and drop off at Riverbound Sports, 1425 E University Dr, Ste B‑102, Tempe, AZ 85281; for questions call 480‑463‑6686 or email [email protected].
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long can I keep the kayak?
Full‑day rentals run from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM the same day; equipment must be returned by the end of business or late fees will be added automatically.
What equipment comes with the rental?
The rental includes the kayak, two kayak seats, two paddles, two PFDs (life jackets), tie‑down straps and a foam block roof rack.
Can I pick the kayak up the night before?
Yes—early pickup between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM the night before is available for an additional $5.00; renters are responsible for the equipment overnight and should store it safely.
Do you deliver the kayak to my launch site?
No—delivery is not provided. You are responsible for pick up and drop off at the Riverbound Sports store in Tempe.
How do I transport the 13.5' tandem kayak?
The kayak can be transported on most 4‑door vehicles with a roof rack or in a pickup truck; foam roof racks and straps are provided on a first‑come basis.
What is the weight capacity of the tandem kayak?
Each tandem kayak carries up to 500 pounds.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:15:21.143Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.