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Kayaking on Hoffler Creek

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On August 11, 2023, sometime between 4:30 pm and 11:00 pm, vandals set fire to the Creekside Lab, destroying our kayak fleet and other important equipment. If you have any information related to this crime, please contact us at 757-686-8684, hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org, or submit an anonymous tip to the police at 1-888-562-5887.


We have been working diligently to rise from the ashes and aim to resume guided tours and daily rentals in May 2024 once rebuilding is complete. Thank you for your patience and support throughout this process!

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Though tidal, Hoffler Creek is generally flat water and accessible to individuals of any skill level. We have individual and tandem kayaks available with tandems accommodating up to two adults and a small child. Kayaks are typically available from May until mid-October. 

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For safety reasons, we do not rent kayaks when winds are greater than 15 mph, during thunder or lightning, or if there are any small craft advisories in effect. A combined air and water temp of 120℉ is needed to avoid hypothermia. Please check HERE for wind conditions and HERE for water temps before planning your paddle. 

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  • Rentals - Kayaks are available Tuesday - Sunday between 10:00 am and 2:30 pm. Please call 757-686-8684 or email hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org to check availability.  All kayakers must stop in the Visitor's Center to pay for the rental period, read and sign a release form, and leave a valid ID. Parents or legal guardians must sign for children under 18 years of age. Pricing is listed below.

 

  • Launch Your Own - There is a 1/2 mile walk from the parking lot to the dock, so please come prepared. You may self-launch Tuesday - Sunday between 10:00 am and 2:30 pm. All kayakers must stop in the Visitor's Center to pay the self-launch fee, read and sign a release form, and leave a valid ID. Parents or legal guardians must sign for children under 18 years of age. Pricing is listed below.

 

  • Groups - We can launch up to 16 people as a group. Please email hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org to check availability and reserve kayaks for a group at least 24 hours in advance. 

 

  • Guided Paddles & Events - Experienced guides lead Early Riser, Marsh Tour, Sunset, and Full Moon paddles each month. Details for upcoming tours, including dates, pricing, and more, can be found here. Based on the availability of staff and guides, we can work with you to plan a guided paddle for a private group. Email hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org with details, including the date and time you have in mind and the number of people in your group.

Cost

Member Price

Kayak Size

Rentals

Launch Your Own

$15/hr

$25/hr

Single

Tandem

$25/hr

$35/hr

Any Size

FREE

$15

Rules & Regulations

  • Payment is due in person at the Visitor's Center before the paddle starts. We accept cash and card.

  • All kayakers must stop in the Visitor's Center to pay necessary fees, read and sign a release form, and leave a valid ID. Parents or legal guardians must sign for children under 18 years of age.

  • The rental period begins when the renter receives the kayak, paddle, and life preserver. The rental period ends when the renter returns the kayak, paddle, and life preserver to HCWP staff. We allow 15 minutes for travel to and from the Visitor's Center and creek.

  • The renter is responsible for the safe and authorized use of the equipment during the entire rental period. Equipment may not be left unattended or unsecured during the rental period.

  • Life jackets must be worn while on the water.

  • Kayak use for persons under 18 years of age may only be done under an adult renter's direct supervision.

  • No more than 2 adults and 1 child are allowed on tandem kayaks.

  • Single kayaks have a weight limit of 250 lbs. Tandem kayaks have a weight limit of 550 lbs.

  • Kayaks may not be taken within 200 feet of the mouth of Hoffler Creek.​

  • All persons must be considerate and steer clear of any other boats while kayaking.

  • Alcohol consumption while boating is prohibited. Rentals will not be given to any person who is or appears to be intoxicated.

  • Do not pollute the creek with any waste. No styrofoam or glass is allowed on the creek.

  • All persons on the water must return to the launch site if lightning is striking in the area.

  • HCWP staff has the right to cancel rentals due to large waves or other unsafe conditions.​

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Visit the Join/Donate tab for more information about membership options.

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