FAQ

We are open 7 days a week, yer-round including MOST holidays. We are closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours vary by season and holiday, so be sure to check our Google listing for most accurate info:

https://g.page/jupiteroutdoorcenter

We sometimes offer specialty tours, like our sunset tours, that may run later into the evenings on select dates.

Prices vary by activity. Go through the motions of booking of any adventure you’re interested in to see the current price.

Both!  We have single kayaks that hold one person as well as two-person, or tandem, kayaks. Some of our tandem kayaks even fit a small child in the middle. If you wish to use one of these, be sure to ask for a “Quattro” in the “special requests” section at checkout. In addition, we have canoes that can fit up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children.

There aren’t any! One of the best things about kayaking and paddleboarding is that it is fun for the whole family, from infants to seniors. We have all the appropriate equipment you’ll need to make sure everyone is safe and having a blast. It is sometimes better to have younger kids in a 2-seater kayak with an adult, just because kids can get tired of paddling on their own and it is a great way to have fun together.

It can happen — even if you’re not trying — but most people stay upright the whole time. If you’d like a few quick tips before you go, just ask at check-in and our staff will gladly help.

If you do take a splash, no worries. You’ll be in a life jacket, so you’ll float. Rule #1: always try to stand up first. If it’s too deep, swim your kayak or board to the nearest riverbank and hop back in.

The best way to stay steady is to keep your center of gravity — no sudden leaning side to side, especially if you’re sharing a tandem. Smooth, centered movements make all the difference.

Falling in is part of paddling sometimes, but it’s easy to recover from — and it usually ends in laughs more than drama.

Just be sure you have your valuables in a dry bag attached to you or the boat!

Not really! That’s why it’s booming. Most people are surprised how quickly they pick it up — we’ve had first-timers paddling like pros in 15 minutes. Keep in mind that everyone learns at their own pace.

Ask for a quick orientation before heading out, or book a 1-hour lesson for extra confidence. Even better, join our lesson + tour combo and practice your new skills while exploring Jupiter’s scenic waterways with your instructor/guide!

Anytime! When paddling the Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee from Riverbend Park!

The river is freshwater, tide-free, and gorgeous rain or shine. Shaded canopies keep it calm even when the wind is up.

Jupiter Inlet & Lighthouse area: Timing does matter. The sweet spot is a couple of hours before high tide — that’s when the water turns that gorgeous clear blue and the current is usually at its most forgiving. Outside that window, the flow can pick up, especially on an outgoing tide, which makes paddling more of a workout.

Wind also plays a role: over ~15 mph and you’ll feel it. A quick glance at the tide chart and weather forecast helps make sure your paddle is fun and not a struggle.

Advanced reservations are recommended for rentals, and required for tours. Sometimes, especially on weekends and holidays, we have several large groups show up, and we can run out of equipment. An advanced reservation will assure you have your equipment set aside and available for the time you, or your group, choose. You can book your rental, tour, or lesson right from our website!

Jupiter Outdoor Center’s Cancellation Policy:

Thank you for understanding that Jupiter Outdoor Center (JOC) has honored your paid reservation by removing availability of selected equipment or event space, thereby making it unavailable for others.

Equipment rentals, guides, instructors, camp, and tour space is only guaranteed after a reservation has been made and paid in full. In special circumstances, JOC may choose to secure your reservation with credit/debit card information to be charged upon arrival; however, in the event of a no-show, your card will be charged and the same refund policy stated below will apply.

JOC’s cancellation policy is included in your confirmation email and is also available in the FAQ section of our website.

If JOC cancels a tour or event due to dangerous weather conditions or other circumstances beyond its control, you will receive either a 100% credit or refund. Please note that only JOC has the right to cancel for severe weather or other necessary circumstances.

If you or anyone in your party is unable to be present for the reserved rental, event, or tour for any reason, you must email [email protected] at least 72 hours in advance to receive a 100% credit for future use. Credits will be issued in the form of a digital gift card, and they are fully transferable to another person and never expire. No credits will be given for written cancellations received less than 72 hours prior to the reserved time slot.

Camp cancellations must be made in writing to [email protected] at least 7 days prior to start date.

Any portion of less than one camp day is not refundable if weather causes early cancellation of camp. There is no refund or credit if you do not attend camp or your child is unable to attend. Missed days of camp cannot be rescheduled for any reason. JOC appreciates your understanding in enforcing this refund policy since we have removed availability from our inventory for you, thus making it ineligible for others to reserve and use.

Additional Fees and Charges

$30 per hour for each piece of equipment returned after rental period ends (after 15 minute grace period)

$50 for each piece of equipment returned after closing time (this is in addition to any hourly late fees)

$100 for each piece of equipment not returned to launch site

Dress for comfort according to your activity and the weather.

Paddling is a water sport, so you will get at least a little wet — and maybe a bit muddy.

• Clothing for paddling: Quick-dry clothes are best. Long-sleeved shirts or rash guards, plus a brimmed hat and sunglasses, give great sun protection.

• Sunscreen: for exposed skin.

• Footwear: Flip-flops or barefoot work, but sandals with a strap (like Tevas) or water shoes are ideal.

• Extras: Bring water or a sports drink, snacks or a packed lunch if you’d like, and a camera or phone.

• Dry Bag: especially if bringing your phone! JOC offers dry bags in a variety of styles and sizes for both rent and purchase!

Nope! Here’s the scoop:

• Riverbend Park (Loxahatchee River): Yes, there are alligators — this is Florida! But they’re shy and generally avoid people. In 40+ years of outfitters operating here, there’s never been a single incident involving paddlers. You’re far more likely to see one sunning itself on the bank than bothering a kayak.

• Jupiter Inlet & Lighthouse area: Sharks may be present — it’s the ocean, after all — but like gators, they want nothing to do with paddlers. They tend to swim away when people are around.

In both spots, you’re the scary one! Wildlife is part of the adventure, but there’s no need to worry — respect the animals, keep your distance, and enjoy spotting them from your boat.

Please return all boats and bikes by the end of your rental period. If you’re late, a $30 per hour late fee applies.

Tips to avoid fees:

• Not sure if you’ll need more time? Book the longer rental upfront — it’s only $15–$20 more for an extra 2 hours, and worth it even if you don’t use all the time.

• All equipment must be returned before closing. After hours, there’s a $50 charge per item. Our staff (and the wildlife!) are ready for rest once the sun goes down, and safety becomes a factor in low light.

• All equipment must be returned to the starting point. Failure to do so results in a $100 fee per item.

💡 Pro tips:

• River time flies by — set a phone alarm so you don’t drift into “late fee territory.”

• Paddling back upstream takes longer: every hour downriver = about 1 hour and 15 minutes on the return trip.Plan accordingly!

Quick Answer:

• Single kayaks hold up to 400 lbs

• Tandem (2-person) kayaks hold up to 570 lbs

• Canoes hold up to 1,150 lbs

Notes:

• Tandem kayaks can be rigged for a single person and paddled solo — the best option for guests over 300 lbs who need extra capacity.

• When booking online, use the Special Requests section if you’d like a specific boat model.