Kayaking Rental West Cork

Ireland’s safest kayaking location in West Cork 

Try something new

Kayaking fun for everyone!

Kayak is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore the rivers and lakes around you. Easy to transport and launch, kayaking is perfect for exploring those warm summer days at our local reservoirs, lakes, and coastlines. Kayaking can bring you closer to nature than any other type of boat or watercraft, whether you’re cruising serene streams to seek out wildlife, or making your way up a rushing river for an exhilarating ride through whitewater rapids.

The great thing about kayaking in West Cork is that it’s so easy to get started. You don’t need a lot of equipment, and there’s no special license or training needed. Nothing can compare to paddling through rivers and lakes and exploring nature from a whole new angle.

Kayaking is a great way to explore the beautiful waters around West Cork without having to go far from shore. Our kayak rentals allow you to explore the lagoon at your own pace for 30-60 minutes. We’ll supply all the equipment you need and give you a safety briefing, so you know what to do and where to go.

Young people enjoying kayaking in Cork Ireland at Lagoon activity centre
Two people ejoying Kayak rentals in Cork

We Offer Kayaking Rentals!

When you’re at the Rosscarbery Lagoon, you’re never more than a few steps from the water. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a kayak and take off!

If you’re in the mood for a little adventure and want to get out on the water, we have just what you need. Our kayaking rentals are perfect for anyone looking for a fun way to spend some time on the water. We offer single kayaks and double kayaks/canadian canoes.

Kayaking is the perfect way to spend a day in the sun with your friends, family, or loved ones. Our kayaks are designed for comfort and safety, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of our lake without worrying about getting into trouble. We have a variety of models available for rental, so there’s something for everyone!

Our kayaks are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis, and we recommend you reserve them in advance to make sure they are available when you arrive. We have single kayaks and double kayaks, so whether you’re looking for a quick spin or want to go out with your friends, you can do it all here.

What our visitors say...
google

Great fun, great staff.

Avril Kingston August 26, 2019
tripadvisor

So much fun, staff were brilliant and great value for money. Would definitely recommend this for a family activity……..

Nomad151967 August 7, 2022
google

Kids loved it!

Garry Helen July 14, 2021
google

Loved it big time. Must do experience of county cork, right after the butter factory.

Thomas McArdle May 23, 2022
google

Fantastic atmosphere, with excellent staff👌

Carmel Dowdall June 6, 2021
tripadvisor

The experience was mixed. If you’re fit you’ll get lots from it . Less so if you’re less so. We went with our Autistic son who felt limited in the things he could because the access to certain obstacles involved going through others he couldn’t manage. Other reviewers have

HoweDublin August 1, 2021
tripadvisor

A really great thing to do with children of all ages!! Tired arms today but such good fun! nWell organised and safe out with lifejackets. They provide wetsuits if needed. nDefinitely recommend

DayTrip328571 August 1, 2022
tripadvisor

We had a fantastic day with our three chikdren at the floating water park...even our 16 year old enjoyed it. Even the rain couldnt dampen the experience and the staff were very friendly. I would recommend wearing aqua shoes as it can be shallow and stony underfoot.

WalkTheLyne July 1, 2021
google

Such a fun place with the family and great value

Mark Byrne August 21, 2021
google

Great for the kids and adults

dave kelly July 7, 2021
tripadvisor

Had a fab time here with my family. Staff were so friendly and helpful and made sure to look after my little girl.

Danielle M August 1, 2021
tripadvisor

The water park is great fun for the whole family. The kids loved it....and the daddy loved it. The Iceberg is a hard climb but totally worth it. We're living locally and have gone a couple of times....and will be back.

kerrymankav August 1, 2021
google

Great place. Very well run and very safe. A must visit if in west Cork.

Liam O'Grady August 27, 2021
google

Great day out for both adults and kids, any foot protection would be welcome, as you wouldn't notice the sore feet during the activity but definitely afterwards lol... ( Well worth it tho ☺️☺️).....

David Crean June 7, 2021
tripadvisor

Heading towards the 40s but still love the inflatable water park so much, my teenagers always have a ball too.

Mimi June 26, 2022
google

Went here today did kayaking and the water park.. We had a great time loved every minute of it the water park is a great experience, great for kids and adults.. Definitely will be returning before school starts. Staff very friendly which is a plus.

Monica R July 28, 2020
google

Great spot. My 2 boys had a ball. Great facilities, great value. Friendly staff.

google

It's ok place

Andrius Mezelis July 20, 2021
google

Went to the Lagoon Activity Centre today for the first time and we had a ball. Went on the paddle boat and got a kayak each. Everything was very straight forward. Staff were very friendly and extremely helpful and such amazing value. Will definitely come back for some more fun when I come to west cork again.

Melissa Bambury July 18, 2021
tripadvisor

Booked for family of 4 as part of our holiday in West Cork and Paul the manager was very accommodating when we had a problem with the time we booked. We had great fun on the inflatables…kids loved the slide and the hamster wheel! There are lovely warm showers after too. Staff were great. We had previously been as a few times and and we will definitely be back again…it doesn’t get old!

FrequentFlier185341 August 20, 2022
google

Had a fab time here the kayaking was brilliant

Sharron McGee August 4, 2021
google

Great fun today with the neices

Deborah Wolfe June 8, 2021
tripadvisor

Had a fantastic day out as usual, our annual visit to the lagoon! Changing rooms and toliets spotless, staff amazing and very helpful. We did the waterpark which requires a good level of fitness but thats clearly started in the terms and conditions,very detailed safety talk, lifeguards on the ball as per usual. Overall a fantastic day out , we will most definitely be back, looking forward to next year already. nHighly recommend.

DDM August 20, 2022
tripadvisor

Staff were so helpful and friendly. Boys were aged between 9 and 11 years in our group. They truly enjoyed every minute. Only complaint they had was they wanted more time for their session. Highly recommended!!!

Brigid hartnett August 1, 2021
tripadvisor

My kids and I visited today and had a brilliant time. We tried the kayaks, the pedalboats and finished up on the inflatable water park - it was so much fun! The staff were so friendly and accommodating and the pizza was delicious. A great day out, thanks!!

needanicecuppa June 29, 2022
tripadvisor

Absolutely enjoyed this activity centre, it's even great for those people who have a fear of water or can't swim, cos the water is only 3ft deep. So safe enough. Definitely go on this again, loads of fun to be had, in good weather and bad. Brilliant fun

Maureen Clarke July 1, 2021
tripadvisor

We took the trip from Cork City to The Lagoon Activity Centre for the day and it did not disappoint. We had an 8 year old with us and he really enjoyed the water park, as did we it is really great for all ages. Wetsuits and life jackets were provided and there was lovely hot

Nuala R August 1, 2021
google

Fabulous

Dawn Russell August 3, 2021
tripadvisor

Fun facilities and a lovely relaxed atmosphere at the centre. Very friendly staff at the centre base. Aqua park was fun but very daunting. Be prepared for essentially a slippery bouncy castle. Those in charge of the Aquapark we very unhelpful, bordering on rude. Myself and others were the ones pulling the dingy closer to the inflatable to help people on and off while they looked on. No positive interaction, just looked constantly bored by our existence and us possibly being in need of a hand. Nothing to wipe the very many cuts I witnessed on the way back. Those on shore were very helpful. Please remember that it is all of our first time on a wobbly, slippery inflatable in deep water that most of us are only on to keep out children happy. Our old bodies ache. It costs nothing to give us a fake smile and a hand onto wobbly polyethylene. In fact, it would go a really long way. You catch more flies with honey then with vinegar. Still had a great time though!

Martha D August 22, 2022
google

Great experience. Friendly staff. If the weather is good the place will be a super fun. Very safe place, just 4 feet deep.

Gowtham Kumaresh June 12, 2021
tripadvisor

Great craic, I went with my 9 year old son. Wrecked afterwards but definitely worth it. Looking forward to doing it again.

Neil M August 18, 2022
tripadvisor

Went with my 8 year old, had an absolute blast,was in bits after the activities and still went out on the kayak after. Staff are amazing and so helpful. Will return on our next trip.

Simon Q August 1, 2021
google

Very kind, friendly and helpful people behind the desk today and in the boat. Thanks a mill.

tripadvisor

Great fun for all the family, staff excellent and facilities, well worth a visit. Will definitely be back

Grainnemadde July 3, 2022
tripadvisor

Fantastic activity centre kids thoroughly enjoyed it. Great fun plenty of exercise. Staff were friendly and helpful today especially Dylan with welcome and wetsuits etc. Recommend it highly kids of all ages will love it. Will be back again.

Deirdre N August 3, 2022
google

Very good

Barry Joyce August 17, 2021
google

Lovely place

Paddy Connolly August 22, 2020
google

Very nice staff were very nice

Marcus Finn July 16, 2021
google

Brilliant

Sean Geary August 13, 2021
tripadvisor

Book early. Always a hoot. For all ages! I'm early 50s and go with the teenagers every summer. The new pyramid is a testing climb but worth it. I started with this and got the wetting out of the way early on! Could do with clearing out of the pond scum which accumulates in two

JECTHK July 1, 2021
tripadvisor

Fun afternoon for all. Staff were friendly and helpful. Lovely atmosphere and buzz around the centre. Hope to go again next summer.

Maeve C August 1, 2021
google

It's brilliant but changing rooms are small.

Elbin C Joseph June 26, 2021
tripadvisor

Attended the floating water park, great fun family event. Note, the water is not clean, make sure not to swallow! Staff very pleasant.

Barbara July 1, 2021
google

Kids had a ball... Lots or running, swimming & climbing... For the spectators, the coffee was really good

Eoin O'Riordan July 15, 2021
tripadvisor

Great morning on the inflatables with 2 adults and 3 kids. Very well organised, friendly staff and good value in the cafe. Would highly recommend this activity, we all had great fun.

DBurke August 1, 2021
tripadvisor

We went as a family (4 kids ages 16, 14, 6 and 4, and 2 adults) a day out to celebrate the 16th birthday! It's hard to impress the older lads, but they thoroughly enjoyed this! They went on the water park, we watched for a while before bringing the smallies out on a pedal boat.

Niamh H August 1, 2021
tripadvisor

Greatest 45 min of our holiday, really safe, crazy activity for all the family. You dont need to be a good swimmer its easy to get around

fromire July 15, 2022
tripadvisor

Visited the Lagoon during the Summer with my two kids and they had a ball. From the moment we arrived the staff could not have been more helpful and pleasant. Lovely coffee available too. Shout out to a young lad called Ciaran who went over and beyond to help us. We look forward

Melissa B June 1, 2021
google

Great place. Really enjoyed Kayaking.

John Mollaghan August 2, 2020
google

Great place for all the family.

Paul Kelleher August 15, 2021

Try also our other activities

Inflatable water park in the Lagoon Water Activity Centre Rosscarbery - perfect for school tours primary schools

Water Park

A picture of the Lagoon Activity Centre Waterpark with it's vibrant waterslides and obstacle courses.

Family enjoying pedal boat at the Lagoon Activity Centre

Pedal Boats

Family fun renting a pedal boat at the Lagoon Activity Centre in Roscarbery, Co. Cork.

Two people using stand up paddle boards (SUP) at the Lagoon Activity Centre in Rosscarbery

SUP

Two boys renting paddleboards in West Cork.

Directions

How To Get Here

Ideally located in Rosscarbery, Co. Cork, you can reach the Lagoon Activity Centre in just over an hour by car if you’re coming from Cork City (2 hours from Limerick, and just over an hour and a half on the 230 bus that departs from St.Patricks Quay, Cork City).  

Kayak Rental FAQs

Renting a kayak offers you the opportunity to explore the beauty of our waters firsthand and enjoy an exhilarating outdoor adventure by kayaking West Cork. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle along serene coastlines or an active exploration of hidden coves and wildlife habitats, kayaking provides a unique way to connect with nature and unwind. Our kayak rental service is equipped with all necessary gear, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for paddlers of all skill levels. Discover our little part of West Cork in the best way possible, through the freedom and tranquillity of kayaking with the Lagoon Activity Centre.

The main differences between a single kayak and a double kayak are based on their capacity and their overall design. The main differences are highlighted below.  

Single Kayak:  

A single kayak is designed to fit one paddler, the boat is slimmer and lighter by design, they are agile and easy to paddle with. A single kayak is perfect for those seeking a solo adventure!  

Double Kayak:  

A double kayak is designed to fit two paddlers, either front to back or by seating the paddlers side to side. Double kayaks are known for their width and their stability, in comparison to the single kayak. Great for an adventuring duo for longer trips or activities that benefit from working as a team. 

Yes, the weather forecast is crucial as it directly affects sea conditions. It’s highly advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your kayaking session with us. 

Safe kayaking requires suitable weather conditions. Conditions like strong winds, heavy rain, and storms are unsuitable for paddle boarding. Ideally, calm days with clear skies are optimal, especially for beginners and children. These conditions ensure better visibility, making it easier to spot other paddlers and potential hazards. 

Good weather not only enhances safety but also improves the overall kayaking experience. Below, we’ve listed our recommended weather forecasting resources for checking local kayaking conditions before kayaking West Cork: 

 

MET EIREANN NATIONAL FORECAST 
WINDGURU 
RAINFALL RADAR 
SEA AREA FORECAST 
SYNOPTIC/PRESSURE CHARTS 
SHIPPING FORECAST 
TIDES – CORK HARBOUR 

Yes, we provide life jackets to all kayaking participants. Life jackets are essential safety equipment, providing buoyancy and keeping paddlers afloat in the water. Wearing a life jacket is mandatory for all those participating in our activities, regardless of their level of experience.

Yes, you can enhance your experience by eating at the Jack Shack restaurant, conveniently located next to the stunning Rosscarbery Lagoon. Enjoy a relaxing meal by the waterfront with our thoughtfully curated menu. For more details on our restaurant offerings, please visit Jack’s Shack. 

Our kayaking activity is tailored for beginners, so there’s no need to purchase specialized water sports gear to enjoy our kayaks at the Lagoon Activity Centre. However, to enhance your experience, we suggest bringing the following items: 

  • Swimwear: Pack a suitable swimsuit, that you find comfortable to ensure you can fully enjoy your time kayaking at the Lagoon Activity Centre. 
  • Hat: Wearing a hat while kayaking acts as an additional barrier from the sun and protects your eyes from direct sunlight. 
  • Sunglasses: Sunglasses are essential for improving visibility, reducing eye strain from UV rays, and minimizing any potential glare from the sea during your kayaking adventure. 
  • Sunscreen: The weather at sea can change unexpectedly. It’s highly recommended to apply sunscreen before your water sports session to protect yourself from UV rays and prevent sunburn. 
  • Food and Drinks: 
  • While kayaking is an exhilarating activity, it’s a good idea to pack some food and drinks to stay hydrated and maintain your energy levels throughout your adventure. 
  • A Sense of Adventure: 
  • Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience kayaking West Cork and exploring the breathtaking scenery of Rosscarbery!