Paddleboard Rental Business Starter Guide

How to turn your paddleboard into a paycheck – one weekend at a time.

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1. What’s in the Bag?

Each Solo SUP™ package includes everything you need to get your rental business up and running:

  • Solo SUP™ Backcountry boards (14.8 lbs – ultra light and portable)
  • Drybag backpack with space for all gear
  • Adjustable 3-piece paddle
  • Nano hand pump
  • Textured traction pad for grip and comfort
  • Twin 6" snap-in fins
  • 5mm bungee tie-downs (for customer gear)
  • This Rental Guide
  • Free listing on SUP Finder (we send customers your way!)

Optional Ultra Durable Paddle Upgrade:

Aluminum SUP Paddle - Pau Hana Surf Supply

Enhance your rental business with our three-piece adjustable aluminum Daily Driver paddles, designed specifically for high-volume commercial use and beginner-friendly paddling experiences.

2. Choose Your Location

  • Great paddleboard rentals start with a smart location. Look for:
  • Popular lakes, beaches, or slow rivers
  • Easy walk-up traffic (parking lots, trailheads, marinas)
  • Calm waters for beginner paddlers
  • Areas where competitors are minimal or poorly marketed

Pro Tip: Solo SUP™'s ultralight design means you don’t need a trailer or roof rack. A compact car = full rental setup.

3. Setup Your Operation

No storefront? No problem. You only need:

  • A foldable chair or beach blanket
  • A bright “SUP RENTALS” sign (template included!)
  • Printed or digital waiver (starter template provided)
  • Mobile payment options: Venmo, Cash App, Square, etc.
  • ID verification or deposit system (photo ID + refundable deposit)
  • Keep it casual but professional. A clipboard and sunscreen go a long way.
  • Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Ensure each renter has access to a properly sized PFD. While adults are required to have a PFD on board, children under 13 must wear one at all times while on the water.

4. Set Your Rates

Recommended pricing (adjust by market):

  • $30/hour
  • $50 for 2 hours
  • $100+ for full day

Offer multi-board deals for families or groups. Keep pricing clear and simple.

5. Legal & Liability Tips

You’re the boss - and that comes with a little paperwork:

  • Always use a liability waiver
  • Check local park or beach rental rules
  • Consider basic liability insurance (search: "equipment rental insurance small business")
  • Display safety instructions clearly
  • Provide Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) for renters

Most of our operators run hassle-free in public spaces with just a printed waiver.

6. Deliver a 5-Star Experience

Your boards are lightweight, beautiful, and beginner-friendly. Now make sure the rental experience matches:

  • Greet customers with stoke
  • Offer brief paddle tips before they launch
  • Snap a photo of renters for social proof (with their OK)
  • Ask for Google reviews or testimonials

Remember: Happy paddlers = referrals = more rentals.

7. Join SUP Finder (It's Free!)

When you buy a rental package, you’re eligible for SUP Finder, our exclusive rental map. Here’s how it works:

  1. We add your rental location to our public map
  2. Paddlers nearby can find and contact you
  3. You get more business - no extra marketing needed

Our network is growing fast, and you're part of it from Day One.

8. Ready to Grow?

Once you’ve nailed your local spot, here’s how to scale:

  • Add more boards from Pau Hana (get volume discounts)
  • Partner with hotels, resorts, or campgrounds
  • Host “Try SUP” days or lake cleanups to build awareness
  • Offer weekday rentals or memberships for regulars

You’re not just running a business - you’re sharing the stoke.

Safety First

Essential Guidelines for SUP Rentals

Ensuring the safety of your customers is paramount. Implementing the following measures will help provide a secure and enjoyable paddleboarding experience:

Monitor Weather Conditions

  • Check Forecasts: Always review local weather conditions before renting out equipment. Avoid rentals during storms, high winds, or rapidly changing weather. 
  • Educate Customers: Inform renters about the importance of not paddling in offshore winds or adverse conditions. 

Provide Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

  • Mandatory Equipment: Supply U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFDs for all renters. While adults are required to have a PFD on board, children under 13 must wear one at all times while on the water. 
  • Proper Fit: Ensure each PFD is appropriately sized and in good condition. 

Include Safety Whistles

  • Emergency Signaling: Attach a whistle to each PFD. This allows renters to signal for help if needed, as required by U.S. Coast Guard regulations. 

Ensure Leash Usage

  • Prevent Separation: Provide a leash with every board to keep the paddleboard attached to the user, preventing it from drifting away in case of a fall. 
  • Demonstrate Proper Use: Show renters how to securely attach the leash to their ankle or calf and explain its importance. 

Display Safety Instructions

  • Visible Guidelines: Post clear safety instructions at your rental station, covering equipment use, local hazards, and emergency procedures. 
  • Verbal Briefing: Offer a brief safety talk to each renter, emphasizing key points and answering any questions. 

Implementing these safety measures, you not only comply with legal requirements but also enhance the overall experience for your customers, fostering trust and encouraging repeat business.

SPRING SIDE HUSTLE STARTER PACKAGES

For a limited time, we're offering special packages featuring our award-winning Solo SUP™ - the world's first hikeable paddle board at 14.8 lbs:

BASIC STARTER

2 Solo SUP™ boards

$1,198 $998

Save $200!

  • Complete with paddles, pumps & backpacks
  • FREE rental business starter guide
  • FREE listing on SUP Finder
BUY NOW

PRO PACKAGE

4 Solo SUP™ boards

$2,396 $1,996

Save $400!

  • Complete with paddles, pumps & backpacks
  • FREE rental business starter guide
  • Premium SUP Finder placement
BUY NOW

*These special package prices will disappear once new tariff costs hit. Start your low-stress outdoor side hustle today!*

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