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 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
google

Great family day out. The centre is run very well. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful. We've done a few of these water activities and this one is by far out favourite. You take a short boat ride out to it which was very exciting for the kids also. Toilet facilities are very clean and plenty of hand sanitizer. The whole experience from start to finish was fantastic. We'll definitely be returning. Would highly recommend. Our kids are 13 and 11.

Lorraine O Flynn July 21, 2020
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
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
google

Very nice staff were very nice

Marcus Finn July 16, 2021
tripadvisor

Kids loved it definitely will do it again well worth the money, will do kayaking and pedal boats next time make a day of it

Karen B July 1, 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

Great craic, safe for all ages, well worth it.

Brian Dempsey September 10, 2019
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
google

Great fun day out

GM Os September 4, 2021
tripadvisor

Kids ages 8-12 enjoyed it, adult thought it was good. The only negative is that groups tend to take over a session too much. There was a group of about 10 teens and our kids couldn’t get on certain things (e.g. rotator) as the group took it over for most of the session. Lifeguard should break this kind of hoarding up. The place is run by very young staff (teens), punctual and polite but I do wonder how they would cope if a serious incident occurred. Overall 4 happy people, but not racing back

H7256JKmaryc August 14, 2022
tripadvisor

3 kids from 8 to 11 had a brilliant time on the waterpark activity whilst mammy and 2 small ones had some ice cream and enjoyed the good weather 😀

Stacy August 1, 2021
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

Big family group. Highlight of the family holiday. Kids loved it. Well worth a visit!

Aideen Lydon August 28, 2020
google

It's ok place

Andrius Mezelis July 20, 2021
google

Bussin

creevycreeper July 31, 2021
google

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

Thomas McArdle May 23, 2022
tripadvisor

Great time kayaking first then water park we all had fun teens also had a great time just needs a little cleaning around water park some wood and rubbish floating around

ray August 14, 2022
google

It's brilliant but changing rooms are small.

Elbin C Joseph June 26, 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 fun, great staff.

Avril Kingston August 26, 2019
tripadvisor

Everything was excellent 👌 I honestly haven't had that much fun in years! It's brilliantly organised and the staff are so nice! Some great memories have been made today. Thank you

Katie stark August 1, 2021
google

Great fun all (kids and adults).

Peter O'Higgins July 17, 2020
google

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

Liam O'Grady August 27, 2021
google

Lovely well maintained park . Have seen the bin collection guy here even in a sunday morning good parking area.tennis court for older kids lovely lake view and only a walk from the shops and restaurants.

Sylvia Vincent August 8, 2021
tripadvisor

We had a great time at The Lagoon Waterpark. The five of us took part, kids from 8 to 15 and we had great fun. The only thing for us was that a couple of the inflatables could have had more air in them and showers stopped before we had a chance to use them when we finished,

Elaine S August 1, 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
google

Very good

Barry Joyce August 17, 2021
google

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

google

Great place during the summer when the water park is there they allso have kenewing peddle boats and paddle surfing and a small shop that sells ice-cream and other stuff.

Ciarán Forsythe October 27, 2020
tripadvisor

Really, really enjoyable experience at the Lagoon. Wetsuits and life jackets provided, with both changing rooms and showers (for rinsing off only) available. Staff at reception and on the boat were very friendly and chatty. The course was very fun, and the 45 minute time was

Laura S July 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. Really enjoyed Kayaking.

John Mollaghan August 2, 2020
google

Absolutely brilliant, kids really enjoyed the kayaking which is really safe. Will be back soon

Cedric H August 8, 2020
tripadvisor

The Lagoon Activity centre was extremely well runnIt is great fun for the family, from 8 years plus!nHighly recommend it, cant wait to go back

Susan S August 31, 2022
google

Fantastic atmosphere, with excellent staff👌

Carmel Dowdall June 6, 2021
google

Great place for all the family.

Paul Kelleher August 15, 2021
google

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

google

Lovely place

Paddy Connolly August 22, 2020
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
google

Great fun

Aoife O sullivan September 23, 2020
google

Fabulous

Dawn Russell August 3, 2021
google

It is a very family area for all ages and I really enjoyed my day

Nellie Cohen August 15, 2020
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

Great for the kids and adults

dave kelly July 7, 2021
tripadvisor

This is our second time here at the lagoon , as always a super morning with lots of fun for all the family. Great new addition is the big big big slide!! Staff as always very professional a d extremely helpful We will be back again thanks to all the team at the Lagoon Activity

Paul W August 1, 2021
tripadvisor

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

Grainnemadde July 3, 2022
google

Staff very friendly , quaint , little coffee shop , 2 toilets a selection of water sports

amelia norman July 10, 2021
google

This activity centre is so much fun, and easy to find in Roscarbery! The staff were wonderful and friendly. Life jackets are supplied, and wetsuits are available if you need them. There are showers and restrooms available, and food to purchase also. The Lagoon Activity Centre is a great laugh. It's a bit on the slippy side, so be prepared to fall into the water if you're walking or running too fast! The water is salty, and while it's around 3ft deep in some places, it's much deeper in other parts. You can also hire out peddle boats, stand up paddle boards and kayaks also. A great activity centre for both adults and kids! 5 out of 5!!

Jenny Clancy July 23, 2021
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

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!

Water fun starts here!

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