First time on a San Diego boat rental? Here’s everything you need to know before you show up at the dock — what to bring, what to expect, and how to make the most of your time on the water.
Essential San Diego Boat Rental Tips: What to Bring
Sunscreen — The bay reflects UV rays from below as well as above. As a result, you’ll get more sun exposure than you expect, even on overcast days. Apply before you arrive and bring extra for reapplication.
Sunglasses — Glare off the water is intense, especially in the afternoon. Furthermore, polarized lenses make it much easier to see below the surface — great for spotting fish and sea life.
A light jacket — San Diego mornings and evenings are cool on the water, even in July. However, midday can be warm enough for a t-shirt. Therefore, layers are the smart approach regardless of season.
Snacks and water — You can bring food and non-alcoholic drinks on your San Diego boat rental. In addition, staying hydrated is important — you’ll be more active than you expect between pedaling and navigating.
Phone or camera — The views from the water are genuinely worth photographing. Moreover, you’ll want to capture any wildlife encounters — sea lions, pelicans, and occasionally dolphins all make appearances at H&M Landing.
What NOT to Bring on Your San Diego Boat Rental
Leave fragile items, expensive valuables, and anything that can’t handle moisture at home. In other words, treat it like a day at the beach — assume things might get a little wet. Nevertheless, our pedal and electric boats are stable and don’t typically take on water, so the risk is low.
Additionally, avoid bulky bags that take up floor space on the boat. A small backpack or tote is all you need. Therefore, pack light and leave the rolling luggage in the car.
Parking and Getting Here
We’re at H&M Landing, 2803 Emerson St, San Diego, CA 92106 — right on the waterfront at America’s Cup Harbor. The main parking lot is operated by ACE Parking and requires payment. Free parking options are available nearby — see our parking page for details. We recommend Uber/Lyft for the easiest drop-off. Furthermore, the location is easy to navigate with GPS, and most guests find it on their first try.
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before your rental time to check in, get oriented, and get your life jackets fitted. However, don’t stress if you’re running a few minutes late — we’ll get you on the water.
Choosing the Right Boat for Your Group
For groups of 2-3, a pedal boat is the most fun and most affordable option. In contrast, for groups of 3-4 who want a more relaxed experience, our electric boats are quiet, smooth, and effortless to operate. Moreover, for evening outings, the Glow Boat tour is the hands-down favorite.
San Diego Bay is one of the most accessible boating environments in California. As a result, our San Diego boat rental options are suitable for complete beginners. In addition, our team is on-site to answer questions and make sure you have a great time from start to finish.
One Final Tip
Book in advance, especially for weekends. Our San Diego boat rental slots fill up fast in summer and during holiday weekends. Therefore, if you have a specific date or time in mind, don’t wait — check availability and lock it in.
Have more questions? Contact us directly — we’re happy to help you plan the perfect day on the water.