Port Austin Kayak & Bike

Surf shop in Port Austin, MI

SurfSpotGuide verified

4.6 (392 reviews)

Port Austin, MI

About Port Austin Kayak & Bike

Port Austin Kayak & Bike offers kayak rentals and related services for exploring the scenic Michigan shoreline, including the famous Turnip Rock. Customers consistently praise the staff for being friendly, professional, and highly knowledgeable about conditions and local routes, ensuring a safe and smooth rental process. This location is ideal for both first-time paddlers and experienced adventurers seeking a well-supported, memorable way to access unique natural landmarks.

The Good

Customers overwhelmingly praise the staff for being exceptionally friendly, professional, patient, helpful, and knowledgeable, often going above and beyond (e.g., accommodating last-minute requests, assisting with refunds, and searching for lost items). The online reservation and check-in process is frequently cited as seamless, quick, and efficient. The kayaking experience to Turnip Rock and the surrounding scenery are described as beautiful, memorable, and absolutely worth the effort. Equipment quality (kayaks) is generally rated as good, and the overall organization and communication from the shop are highly commended. The convenience of having an onsite restaurant/beer garden is also a plus.

Things to Consider

The primary physical challenge noted is that the paddle to Turnip Rock (about 3.5 miles each way) can be exhausting, especially if the wind picks up, making the return trip difficult. Some customers mentioned that the water can be shallow, leading to getting stuck on sandbars or rocks, and wished staff had provided more explicit warnings about this specific hazard. One reviewer noted that a life vest smelled strongly of body odor. A few reviews suggested that tandem kayaks might be preferable for beginners, implying availability could be an issue.