Our 10 Favorite Entry-Level Rec Kayaks
New to the paddling scene or introducing someone to the joys of kayaking? Whatever your needs as a beginning kayaker, we’ve got a boat for that.
The perfect starter vessel blends speed and agility with fun and safety. But with a (seemingly) endless selection of rigs out there, it can be hard to narrow in on the best boat for you. That’s why we’re rolling out a series of blog posts designed to help our customers — no matter their experience level — navigate the purchasing waters. With our first post, we’re easing into the gentle stream of beginner-friendly recreational kayaks.
First, a point of definition: A recreational kayak, or rec kayak, is for the casual paddler who paddles mainly on flatwater, from lakes to inshore saltwater to easy rivers and creeks. These kayaks aren’t designed to perform well in big whitewater, but they’re exceptional for a full day on the lake, gentle rivers or even the ocean due to their design, comfort and amenities.
Ready to dip your paddle? Here’s our selection for novices:
1. Wilderness Systems Tarpon (105 or 120)
Whether you’re floating a river, exploring a lake or navigating the ocean’s tides, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon boat series boasts versatility, comfort and stability all wrapped in a solid, sit-on-top design. Our picks? The 105 or the 120. These boats include an adjustable cool-touch seat, plenty of rear and front storage, plus a dry box and water bottle strap within easy reach. Accessory rails mean you can customize your kayak for fishing, photography or even filming. The 105 is a slightly shorter, lighter boat at 10’6” and 55 pounds, making it easy for a beginner to maneuver out of the water, while the 120 has a bit more speed — and heft — at 12’3” and 63 pounds.
2. Native Watercraft Falcon 11
Super stability plus affordability? Enter the Native Watercraft Falcon 11, a sit-on-top kayak designed to give beginners confidence on the water. While this isn’t a speedy boat, it’s a solid entry-level pick — especially for those interested in fishing, as it’s designed to support a variety of fishing gear and tabbed by Native as “a fishing machine.” The Falcon’s sit-on-top design means it won’t fill with water if it tips. In fact, it's so stable you can even stand on top if you choose. Other features include high-low seat positioning, adjustable foot braces, front hatch access, center storage to house a fish-finder (with space for a battery and transducer scupper access), gear tracks and dual flush-mount rod holders. At 11” long with a fully rigged weight of 65 pounds, this is a great pick for those first-time kayak anglers — or anyone looking for a super stable boat.
3. Wilderness Systems Pungo 105 or 120
Searching for a speedier, sit-inside boat? The Wilderness Systems Pungo rigs boast increased efficiency and agility compared to other entry-level boats — without sacrificing stability. Both the 105 and 120 are light and easy for beginners to maneuver. At 12’2” and only 49 pounds, the 120 is one of the longest and lightest in its class. Plus, features like storage and gear trays, a removable dry box, accessory rails, and mounting platforms add convenience. The 120 even has two cup holders and space for a Wilderness Systems battery, which can keep your phone charged up while you paddle.
Searching for a solid, sit-inside entry-level boat with easy maneuverability? Old Town’s Loon series brings intentional design to recreational kayaks. The hull features straight tracking and smooth glide, and at only 10’6” and 53 pounds, this short, light boat offers handling comfort both in and out of the water. Better yet? The 106 boasts features like a plush adjustable seat, dry storage, a removable workdeck with USB charge port, thigh pads and a support track foot brace system.
With innovative design, the LiquidLogic Kiawah features a unique hull shape to lend superior tracking and stability — and it also has room for your dog! Its sit-on-top design with an “open floor plan” includes a roomy bow deck and rear well, leaving plenty of space for you to customize to your needs. At 12’2” and 65 pounds, it’s a longer kayak with some great features for beginners. Think: an elevated seat system, a tankwell with room for a cooler, water bottle rests, a gasketed storage spot in front of the seat, and gear tracks perfect for everything from cell phone to fish finder to fishing rod.
Searching for an inflatable kayak that’s easy to transport? For a boat that handles like a classic, but offers the convenience and stowability of an inflatable kayak, look no further than the Star Paragon. This rig feels like a hardshell kayak, with a non-bailing drop-stitch floor insert and an adjustable seat with foot braces. Plus, there's plenty of room for gear under the bow and stern splash covers. At 10’11” and 40 pounds, it’s one of the lightest options out there and comes with a removable fin, pump, repair kit and three-year retail warranty.
7. Native Watercraft Stingray 11.5
An affordable, sit-on-top kayak that rides high and dry, Native’s Watercraft Stingray is a great beginning rig for anglers. A flared bow makes it perfect for lake fishing. At 11’6” with a fully rigged weight of 65 pounds, it’s easy to get on and off the water. Features include a frame seat, storage hatches with a bow hatch cover, and a paddle holder. Plus, it’s the perfect kayak for a duo, since it’s stackable.
A boat that’s specifically designed to draw in newbies (and anglers), Jackson’s Staxx kayak offers comfort and convenience, while also being an economical pick for those who are new to the sport. At 10’8” and 64 pounds, it’s a solid, stable sit-on-top kayak that still allows for easy handling and movement. Key features include stackability, a folding seat, storage in the bow and stern, and semi-dry storage in the center. Better yet, this boat can easily transform into a stellar fishing kayak with Jackson’s optional fishing kit.
The original LiquidLogic recreational kayak updated for modern comfort, the Saluda 12 is a top pick for novice paddlers. The perfect combination of fun and comfort, this 12’ sit-inside kayak weighs only 51 pounds. Paddlers will love Saluda’s design features, including a hand-sewn frame seat, adjustable foot braces, thigh padding, a variety of storage options (including dry storage), a gear track and water bottle holder.
A solid and affordable pick, Perception Kayak’s Tribe 9.5 is a small, lightweight, stackable sit-on-top kayak. Our favorite aspect of this boat is its versatility. Stable in choppy surf and speedy on calm waters, this is a great vessel for those who are still figuring out their favorite places to paddle. At only 9’5”, the Tribe is a shorter boat, but it has plenty of room for all the bells and whistles, including a padded high-back seat, molded footrests, open storage and center hatch storage, and solo mount recess.
Honorable Mention: Ocean Kayak Malibu
Love paddling the ocean waves? Ocean Kayak’s Malibu is a great place to start. This super stable boat offers easy paddling and straight tracking with a sit-on-top design. Pick from a shorter, more stable 9’5” rig or a longer, speedier 11’5” boat. No matter your pick, you’ll enjoy a molded seat with adjustable backrest, molded footwells and calf rests, a dry hatch, secure storage and no less than THREE cup holders.
Investing in a starter kayak marks the beginning of a lifelong adventure on the water — and part of our goal at Appomattox River Company is to help each customer find the best fit. So come into our store and try our products, or browse. Swing by or call to talk with some of our staff members (all of them are paddlers!). We’ll offer expert advice on the latest in paddling equipment, recommend quality gear, and help you find what works best for you.
For the love of paddling, since 1977.