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Lake Merritt Boating Center

Lake·Oakland·SF Bay Area·No reviews yet
Type
Tidal lagoon, non-motorized
Rentals
Pedal boats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, small sailboats
Prices
Under $25/hr; sailboats $30 or less
Fall hours
Wed-Sun 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sep-Oct)
1 / 1
  • Kayak & SUP
  • Boat rentals
  • Restrooms

About this lake

The Lake Merritt Boating Center is the City of Oakland's boathouse at 568 Bellevue Avenue, on the north shore of Lake Merritt, a tidal lagoon in the middle of the city.

Rentals

The center rents pedal boats, rowboats, canoes and single or double kayaks for under $25 an hour. Sailors who bring their sailing credentials can rent an El Toro, a Sunfish, a 14-foot keelboat or a catamaran for $30 or less. Rentals are cash only, and Oakland residents get a discount.

Hours

In September and October 2026 rentals run Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. From November to February they run Saturday and Sunday only, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rentals close on some holidays and regatta days, such as the November 1 dragon boat regatta.

Launching your own

The state boating directory lists the center as a public, non-motorized launch with a carry-down walkway and no trailer parking.

Getting there & access

Getting there

The boathouse is at 568 Bellevue Avenue in Lakeside Park, on the north side of the lake.

Payment

Bring cash; the center doesn't take cards or checks.

Sailing

Bring your sailing credentials to rent a sailboat.

Winter hours
Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (Nov-Feb)
Phone
510-238-2196

What's here

  • Boat rentals

    Pedal boats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks and small sailboats

  • Kayaking

    Single and double kayak rentals; carry-down launch for your own

  • Restrooms

    Restrooms at the boathouse

Rules & official resources

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Questions boaters ask

Yes. The Boating Center rents pedal boats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks and small sailboats.

Under $25 an hour for paddle and pedal boats; sailboats are $30 or less. Cash only.

Wednesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in September and October; weekends only from November to February.
Sources: oaklandca.gov · lakemerrittinstitute.org · ohp.parks.ca.gov · Last checked Oct 26, 2026 ·
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