TEMPE WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Pedal, Pose, Repeat: Family-First Dragon Boats on Tempe’s Kiwanis Lake
A short, easy-to-operate pedal-boat rental at Kiwanis Lake with shaded bimini tops and included lifejackets — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how rental durations and rules work.
Pedal, Pose, Repeat: Family-First Dragon Boats on Tempe’s Kiwanis Lake.
Adventure brief
Pedal, Pose, Repeat: Family-First Dragon Boats on Tempe’s Kiwanis Lake
On Kiwanis Lake in Tempe, the Dragon Pedal Boat offers a low-effort way to be on the water — human-powered craft with a shaded bimini let families and small groups set their own pace for sightseeing or sunbathing while safety is handled through provided lifejackets.
Tempe’s warm Arizona sun sparkles over Kiwanis Lake, a popular local haven for outdoor families seeking relaxed water fun. At Boat Rentals of America, the Dragon Pedal Boat experience stands out as an inviting way to enjoy a sunny afternoon on calm waters. These pedal boats are perfect for all ages, allowing visitors to glide across the lake at their own pace beneath a shaded bimini top that offers relief from the sun’s rays.
The gentle waters of Kiwanis Lake provide a safe, flat surface ideal for beginners and families. As you turn the pedals, watch for glimpses of local waterfowl or the occasional curious fish darting just below the surface. The easy-to-operate boats come equipped with lifejackets for safety, making it accessible for kids and adults alike. The verdant surroundings—oak trees, lush shrubs, and open sky—frame this laid-back activity, adding to the natural appeal.
What makes Boat Rentals of America particularly appealing is its convenience and friendly atmosphere. Situated right on Kiwanis Lake, it’s a core part of Tempe’s active outdoor scene. It’s a low-key choice for a quick outdoor escape, offering opportunities for sunbathing, sightseeing, and quality family time. Whether you're seeking a peaceful solo paddle or a fun group outing, this pedal boating experience delivers accessible adventure amid the city’s urban greenery.
Additionally, Kiwanis Lake’s accessibility from Tempe makes it a favored spot for locals and visitors. After your boat ride, consider strolling around the park or grabbing a snack nearby. It’s a straightforward, memorable way to enjoy California’s desert climate with a splash of water-based relaxation close to home.
Route Schematic
Typical short loop on Kiwanis Lake
A simple sequence for a Dragon Pedal Boat outing: board, cruise open water for sightseeing or sunbathing, then return to the rental area.
Board at Boat Rentals of America — Kiwanis Lake
Begin the rental at the Boat Rentals of America kiosk on Kiwanis Lake and prepare to launch once paperwork and safety briefings are complete.
Open-water cruising and sightseeing
Explore the lake at your own pace under the shaded bimini for sunbathing and shoreline viewing; speed is controlled by pedal power.
Return to the rental area
Conclude your rental by bringing the pedal boat back to the launch/rental area within your booked time window.
All passengers are required to wear the provided lifejackets while on the water; rentals also require a matching credit/debit card and photo ID from someone over the age of 18, and operators may adjust routing or procedures as needed.
What the day feels like
What it feels like on the water
You pedal from the rental point and steer your own course under a shaded canopy, setting the speed with human power and pausing as you like to soak up sun or scan the shoreline; the setup is deliberately simple so the whole group can relax while lifejackets are worn for every passenger.
THE VIBE
Easygoing, family-friendly paddling
The Dragon Pedal Boat is designed for simple, intuitive use so riders of many ages can cruise together, making it a straightforward option for family outings and casual sightseeing on the lake.
THE COMFORT
Shaded cruising under a bimini top
Each pedal boat includes a bimini top to provide shade while you ride, letting you linger on the water for sunbathing or slow sightseeing without baking in open sun.
THE PRACTICALS
Affordable, short-format rentals
Rentals are priced for brief outings — ideal for trying something new without a large time or money commitment — and lifejackets are supplied to prioritize safety.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Rentals are available in short blocks: 30 minutes for $25 or one hour for $32.
Bring a matching credit/debit card and photo ID from someone over the age of 18 to complete the rental; lifejackets are provided and required for all passengers.
Rentals are operated by Boat Rentals of America at Kiwanis Lake in Tempe.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are lifejackets provided?
Yes — lifejackets are included with every rental and are required to be worn by all passengers while on the water.
How long can I rent a Dragon Pedal Boat and how much does it cost?
Rentals are offered as 30-minute blocks for $25 or one-hour blocks for $32.
Do I need ID or a credit card to rent?
Yes — all rentals require a matching credit/debit card and a photo ID from someone over the age of 18 to complete the transaction.
Who operates the rentals?
The Dragon Pedal Boat rentals are operated by Boat Rentals of America at Kiwanis Lake in Tempe.
Is the pedal boat difficult to operate?
No — the pedal boats are human-powered and described as easy to operate, allowing riders to control speed and relax while sightseeing or sunbathing.
Is this activity family-friendly?
Yes — the pedal boats are presented as fun for all the family and are intended for group enjoyment.
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: 2026-09-08T19:50:46.225Z
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.