Where to Rent Jetskis: 10 Best Amazing Picks 2025

Finding the Perfect Jet Ski Rental Location

Where to rent jetskis is easier than ever with options ranging from peer-to-peer platforms to traditional waterfront shops across the United States. Here are the top ways to find jet ski rentals:

• Peer-to-peer platforms: Boatsetter (600+ locations, 4.95/5 rating) and Getmyboat (500,000+ reviews, 4.9/5 rating)
• Traditional rental shops: Waterfront locations in Chicago, Florida, California, Minnesota, and South Carolina
• Popular destinations: Tampa (445 listings), Los Angeles (369 listings), Lake Michigan, Mission Bay San Diego
• Pricing: $50-$500 per day depending on location and duration

The jet ski rental market has exploded in recent years. From Chicago’s skyline tours starting at $80 for 30 minutes to California’s surf towns offering Sea-Doo Sparks at $95 per hour, there’s never been more choice for water sports enthusiasts.

Traditional rental shops offer the advantage of on-site safety briefings and immediate equipment access. Companies like Next Wave in Chicago or Trip Water Sports in San Diego provide dockside pickup with no towing required.

Peer-to-peer platforms like Boatsetter and Getmyboat connect you directly with jet ski owners, often at lower prices. These platforms include insurance through GEICO Marine and offer everything from basic Yamaha VX models to high-performance Sea-Doo RXP X 300s.

Most rentals include life jackets, basic safety instruction, and fuel (though some charge separately). Age requirements typically start at 18 for renters, with some locations allowing 16+ operators when accompanied by a guardian.

I’m Gregg Kell, and through my work covering recreational water sports and commercial marine operations, I’ve researched where to rent jetskis across dozens of markets nationwide. My experience analyzing everything from Dana Point Harbor operations to Lake Michigan seasonal patterns helps me guide you toward the best rental options for your specific needs.

Before you ride, review the official U.S. Coast Guard boating safety guidelines for the most up-to-date federal requirements.

Essential where to rent jetskis terms:

• family jet ski rentals
• ocean jet ski rentals
• weekend jet ski rentals

Where to Rent Jetskis Across the U.S.

The United States offers incredible diversity when it comes to where to rent jetskis. From the towering skyline of Chicago reflected in Lake Michigan to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Havasu in Arizona, each destination provides a unique riding experience.

Chicago has become a premier jet ski destination, with companies like Next Wave offering rides against the stunning downtown skyline. Operating from Diversey Harbor, you can rent 2023 Yamaha VX Waverunners starting at $80 for 30 minutes on weekdays. The experience of cruising past Navy Pier and seeing the city from the water is truly unforgettable.

Florida’s Gulf Coast dominates the rental market with Tampa leading at 445 listings. The warm waters and year-round season make it ideal for both tourists and locals. Florida operators typically offer everything from basic Sea-Doo Sparks to high-performance models with Bluetooth speakers.

California surf towns provide ocean access that’s hard to beat. From Mission Bay in San Diego to Marina del Rey in Los Angeles, you’ll find both traditional rental shops and peer-to-peer options. We’ve seen California rentals range from $99 per hour for basic models to $182 per hour for premium Yamaha VX Cruisers with audio systems.

Minnesota might surprise you with its robust jet ski scene. Companies like Rent PWC offer delivery services to remote lakes, making it possible to enjoy pristine waters away from crowds. The state’s numerous lakes provide endless exploration opportunities during the summer months.

South Carolina offers fantastic value with Lake Murray, Lake Wylie, and coastal options near Charleston and Myrtle Beach. Rental prices here are often more affordable than coastal California or Florida markets.

Las Vegas proves that desert cities can offer great jet skiing too. Lake Mead and Lake Havasu provide stunning backdrops, with some operators offering off-season pricing as low as $300 per day.

The choice between peer-to-peer platforms and traditional storefronts often comes down to convenience versus cost. Peer-to-peer platforms like Boatsetter and Getmyboat offer competitive pricing and extensive selection, while traditional shops provide immediate access and comprehensive safety briefings.

Popular Destinations to Answer “where to rent jetskis”

When people ask where to rent jetskis, certain destinations consistently top the list. Tampa leads with 445 listings, making it the most competitive market in the country. This competition drives innovation and keeps prices reasonable, with options ranging from basic hourly rentals to full-day packages.

Los Angeles follows closely with 369 listings spread across Marina del Rey, Long Beach, and Huntington Beach. The variety here is impressive – you can rent a basic Sea-Doo Spark for around $100 per hour or splurge on a boostd Yamaha FX SVHO for a premium experience.

Lake Michigan offers a unique freshwater experience with multiple access points. Michigan City, Indiana provides excellent value with Harbor Country Trips offering WaveRunner rentals next to Indiana Dunes National Park. The combination of scenic coastline and reasonable pricing makes it a favorite among Midwest riders.

Mission Bay in San Diego stands out because only city-contracted operators can legally rent jet skis there. Trip Water Sports operates two on-bay locations, eliminating the need for towing and providing immediate access to the full-speed zone. This legal requirement actually benefits renters by ensuring professional operations and proper safety standards.

Myrtle Beach attracts visitors with its combination of ocean access and tourist-friendly amenities. The area offers both traditional beach-based rentals and inland lake options for those preferring calmer waters.

Lake Havasu in Arizona deserves special mention for its year-round season and stunning desert scenery. The lake’s size and clear waters make it perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. Many operators here offer off-season discounts that can save you hundreds of dollars.

Peer-to-Peer Platforms: another way to “where to rent jetskis”

Peer-to-peer platforms have revolutionized where to rent jetskis by connecting riders directly with jet ski owners. Boatsetter leads this space with over 600 locations and maintains an impressive 4.95 out of 5 rating based on 223,000+ customer reviews.

What sets Boatsetter apart is their comprehensive insurance coverage through GEICO Marine and BoatUS. Every rental includes coverage that traditional personal watercraft insurance might not provide. This peace of mind is invaluable when you’re operating someone else’s equipment.

Getmyboat operates on a similar model but with even broader reach, boasting over 500,000 reviews and a 4.9 out of 5 average rating. Their platform excels at filtering options by location, price range, and group size. You can easily find everything from a solo Sea-Doo Spark to twin high-performance models for group trips.

The booking process on these platforms is straightforward: browse listings, send an inquiry with your trip details, receive an offer from the owner, and coordinate pickup. Many listings now offer instant booking for immediate confirmation.

One major advantage of peer-to-peer rentals is access to newer equipment. Individual owners often invest in the latest models with premium features like Bluetooth audio systems, GPS navigation, and improved comfort seating. You’ll frequently find 2023 and 2024 models that traditional rental shops might not carry.

The pricing on peer-to-peer platforms can be significantly lower than traditional shops, especially for longer rentals. We’ve seen daily rates as low as $200 compared to $400+ at traditional operators. However, you’ll need to factor in potential delivery fees and coordinate pickup logistics.

What It Costs & What’s Included

Understanding jet ski rental costs helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises. Pricing varies dramatically based on location, season, and equipment type. Here’s what we’ve found across major markets:

Chicago represents the premium end of the market with Next Wave charging $80-$90 for 30 minutes, scaling up to $400-$475 for 3-hour weekend sessions. The premium reflects the unique urban experience and high-quality 2023 Yamaha VX Waverunners.

Florida markets like Tampa and Clearwater typically range from $120-$210 for 1-2 hours, with full-day rates around $400-$500. The year-round season and high competition keep prices relatively stable.

California shows the widest variation. Dana Point operators like us at Pure Watersports start at $95 per hour for high-performance Kawasaki jet skis, while Los Angeles markets can reach $182 per hour for premium models with audio systems.

Las Vegas offers excellent value with Lake Havasu rentals starting around $300 for off-season daily rates. The desert location and seasonal demand create opportunities for significant savings.

Most rentals include essential safety equipment like life jackets, but fuel policies vary significantly. Some operators include fuel in the rental price, while others charge separately at the end. Always clarify this upfront to avoid surprise charges.

Safety briefings are standard across the industry, though the depth varies. Traditional shops typically provide comprehensive dockside demonstrations, while peer-to-peer rentals might offer video tutorials or brief orientations.

Equipment quality has improved dramatically in recent years. You’ll commonly find late-model Yamaha VX Cruisers, Sea-Doo Sparks, and Kawasaki STX models. Many feature modern amenities like Bluetooth audio, GPS navigation, and improved stability for beginners.

Can You Rent for Multiple Days?

Multi-day rentals are becoming increasingly popular, especially for vacation destinations and lake house getaways. Most operators offer significant discounts for extended rentals, with weekly rates often 30-40% lower than daily rates.

Companies like Rent PWC in Minnesota specialize in multi-day rentals with trailer delivery services. They’ll deliver one or two jet skis directly to your lake house or campsite, eliminating transportation hassles. This service is particularly valuable for accessing remote lakes that don’t have rental facilities.

Weekly packages typically include:

• Significant hourly rate reductions
• Trailer delivery and pickup
• Extended fuel allowances
• Basic maintenance support
• Flexible scheduling within the rental period

The key to securing good multi-day rates is booking well in advance, especially for peak summer months. Many operators offer early-bird discounts of 10-15% for bookings made 30+ days ahead.

Corporate and group bookings often qualify for additional discounts. If you’re planning a company retreat or large family gathering, ask about group rates. Some operators provide dedicated coordinators for events requiring multiple watercraft.

Gear & Amenities Checklist

Successful jet ski rentals require proper preparation. Here’s what you should bring and what’s typically provided:

Always Provided:

• Coast Guard-approved life jackets in various sizes
• Basic safety equipment (whistle, lanyard)
• Pre-ride safety briefing
• Emergency contact information

Usually Provided:

• Fuel (though some charge separately)
• Dry storage compartments
• Basic tools for minor adjustments

You Should Bring:

• Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Dry bag for phones and valuables
• Towels and extra clothes
• Water and snacks for longer rides
• Waterproof action camera
• Cash or credit card for deposits

Strictly Prohibited:

• Alcohol or drugs
• Pets (with rare exceptions)
• Glass containers
• Fishing equipment (unless specifically allowed)
• Self-tanning products that can stain equipment

Weather-appropriate clothing is crucial. In cooler conditions, consider a wetsuit rental. Many operators offer these for $10-20 per day. In hot climates, lightweight, quick-dry clothing works best.

For ocean rentals, additional considerations apply. Salt water requires thorough post-ride rinsing, which most operators handle. However, you should rinse personal items immediately to prevent corrosion.

More info about Ocean rentals

Rules, Requirements & Safety Essentials

Understanding rental requirements prevents disappointment and ensures a safe experience. The standard minimum age for renters is 18, though operators may allow 16+ with parental consent and supervision. All renters must present a valid government-issued photo ID – driver’s licenses, passports, or state ID cards are acceptable.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) license requirements vary by state. Some states require completion of a boating safety course, while others accept the rental operator’s safety briefing. California, for example, requires PWC operators to complete a state-approved course, though many rental operators provide temporary permits for tourists.

Credit card deposits are universal, typically ranging from $200-$500. This covers potential damage, excessive fuel consumption, or late returns. The deposit is pre-authorized on your card and typically releases within 3-5 business days after your rental.

Operational Rules:

• No towing of tubes, skiers, or other watercraft
• Maintain safe distances from swimmers and other vessels
• Respect posted speed limits and no-wake zones
• Stay within designated rental boundaries
• Return with adequate fuel (if not included in rental)

Safety Equipment Requirements:

• Life jackets must be worn at all times
• Engine cut-off switches must be attached to operator
• Emergency whistles must be accessible
• Navigation lights required for dawn/dusk operation

Weather policies vary but typically allow free rescheduling or refunds for unsafe conditions. High winds, thunderstorms, or small craft advisories usually trigger automatic cancellations.

Pet policies are generally strict – most operators prohibit animals for safety and insurance reasons. The few exceptions typically require additional waivers and restrictions.

Insurance coverage through platforms like Boatsetter includes comprehensive protection through GEICO Marine. Traditional operators may offer additional coverage options, though basic liability is typically included in rental fees.

Safety Demo & Pickup/Return Process

Every reputable operator provides safety orientation before you hit the water. This typically includes:

Pre-Ride Briefing:

• Basic operation controls (throttle, steering, brakes)
• Emergency procedures (engine failure, capsizing)
• Local navigation rules and hazards
• Communication protocols (hand signals, emergency contacts)
• Boundary explanations with maps or GPS coordinates

Equipment Inspection:

• Life jacket fitting and adjustment
• Engine cut-off switch attachment
• Fuel level verification
• Safety equipment location
• Damage assessment documentation

The pickup process is generally streamlined at established operators. You’ll complete paperwork, receive your briefing, and be escorted to your jet ski. Many operators use dockside pickup to eliminate towing needs.

Return procedures include fuel level checks (if applicable), damage inspection, and equipment return. Most operators allow a brief grace period for late returns, but extended delays can result in additional charges.

Professional operators maintain detailed pre-ride checklists covering engine operation, steering responsiveness, and safety equipment functionality. This systematic approach significantly reduces mechanical failures and safety incidents.

Weather, Pets & Insurance — answering “where to rent jetskis” concerns

Weather policies directly impact your rental experience and financial exposure. Most operators monitor conditions closely and proactively contact customers about potential cancellations.

Typical Weather Policies:

• Free cancellation/rescheduling for unsafe conditions
• Partial refunds for shortened rentals due to weather
• Real-time weather monitoring with customer notifications
• Flexible rebooking within the same season

Wind Speed Guidelines:

• 0-10 mph: Ideal conditions for all skill levels
• 11-20 mph: Suitable for experienced riders
• 21+ mph: Typically results in cancellation

Pet policies remain restrictive across the industry. The combination of safety concerns, insurance limitations, and equipment damage risks make pet-friendly rentals rare. The few operators allowing pets typically require:

• Additional liability waivers
• Pet life jacket requirements
• Damage deposit increases
• Breed and size restrictions

Insurance coverage has improved significantly with peer-to-peer platforms. Boatsetter’s partnership with GEICO Marine provides comprehensive coverage that often exceeds traditional rental shop policies. This includes:

• Liability coverage for property damage and injuries
• Physical damage coverage for the watercraft
• Towing and assistance services
• Coverage for personal belongings (with limitations)

Traditional rental shops typically carry commercial liability insurance, but coverage details vary. Always ask about coverage limits and exclusions before signing rental agreements.

How to Book, Modify, or Cancel Your Jet Ski Rental

Modern booking systems have made where to rent jetskis searches much more efficient. Most operators now offer online calendars showing real-time availability, eliminating the frustration of phone tag.

Online Booking Advantages:

• Real-time availability checking
• Instant confirmation emails
• Secure payment processing
• Automatic reminder notifications
• Easy modification capabilities

Phone Reservations remain valuable for complex bookings or specific questions. Operators can often accommodate special requests or provide insider tips about optimal timing and conditions.

Walk-up Availability varies dramatically by location and season. Popular destinations like Chicago or Mission Bay may have limited walk-up availability during peak times, while less crowded locations might accommodate spontaneous rentals.

Deposit Requirements:

• Credit card pre-authorization (typically $200-$500)
• Full payment often required 24-48 hours before rental
• Cancellation fees usually apply within 24-48 hours
• Some operators offer payment plans for expensive multi-day rentals

Modification Policies:

• Date changes typically allowed with 48+ hours notice
• Time changes subject to availability
• Equipment upgrades possible for price difference
• Group size changes may affect pricing

Cancellation windows vary but typically follow these patterns:

• 48+ hours: Full refund or free rescheduling
• 24-48 hours: Partial refund (often 50-75%)
• Less than 24 hours: Minimal or no refund
• Weather cancellations: Full refund or rescheduling

Cheap Jet Ski Rentals

Guided Tours vs DIY: Which Should You Book?

The choice between guided tours and independent rentals depends on your experience level and desired experience. Guided tours offer structured experiences with local expertise, while DIY rentals provide freedom and flexibility.

Guided Tour Advantages:

• Expert local knowledge of best routes and sights
• Improved safety with professional supervision
• Historical and environmental commentary
• Group coordination for large parties
• Photography services at some locations

Chicago Skyline Tours represent the premium guided experience. Companies like Next Wave provide narrated tours past iconic landmarks, offering perspectives impossible from land. These tours typically cost 20-30% more than independent rentals but include valuable local insights.

Mission Bay Speed Zone Tours in San Diego capitalize on the area’s unique regulations. Licensed operators can access restricted areas and provide optimized routes for maximum enjoyment within legal boundaries.

DIY Rental Benefits:

• Complete schedule flexibility
• Ability to explore at your own pace
• Lower cost per hour
• Privacy for couples or small groups
• Opportunity to find hidden spots

Captain Options through platforms like Boatsetter bridge the gap between guided tours and independent rentals. You can hire USCG-licensed captains for safety and navigation assistance while maintaining control over your itinerary.

GPS-guided routes are becoming more common, with some operators providing waterproof route maps or GPS coordinates for popular destinations. This technology helps DIY renters find the best spots while maintaining safety.

Reviews That Matter

Customer reviews provide invaluable insights into where to rent jetskis successfully. The industry maintains impressively high satisfaction rates, with platforms like Boatsetter averaging 4.95 out of 5 stars and Getmyboat achieving 4.9 out of 5.

Key Review Themes:

• Equipment quality and maintenance
• Staff professionalism and safety briefings
• Value for money
• Booking process efficiency
• Problem resolution when issues arise

Example Testimonials:

• “Service was incredible, super nice people and gave easy to understand instructions” – Next Wave customer
• “Much more reasonably priced than other jet ski rentals at North Avenue Beach” – Chicago renter
• “Owner was really accommodating for a last-minute reservation” – Jet Ski Chicago customer

Red Flags in Reviews:

• Consistent equipment reliability issues
• Poor safety briefing quality
• Hidden fees or surprise charges
• Unresponsive customer service
• Inadequate insurance coverage

What to Look For:

• Recent reviews (within 6 months)
• Detailed feedback about specific experiences
• Photos of actual equipment
• Responses from operators to negative reviews
• Consistency across multiple platforms

The most valuable reviews often come from first-time renters who detail the entire experience from booking through return. These provide realistic expectations for newcomers to the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jet Ski Rentals

What license or age do I need?

Age requirements are surprisingly consistent across the industry. Most operators require renters to be at least 18 years old, though some allow 16+ with parental consent and supervision. For operation, the minimum age is typically 16, with younger passengers allowed when accompanied by qualified adults.

Driver’s license requirements vary by state. Some states require PWC-specific licenses or boating safety certificates, while others accept the rental operator’s safety briefing as sufficient. California requires completion of a state-approved boating safety course, though many operators provide temporary permits for tourists.

The rental process typically requires:

• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Credit card for deposit
• Completion of safety waiver
• Demonstration of basic swimming ability (at some locations)

Is fuel included in the price?

Fuel policies vary significantly among operators. Some include fuel in the rental price, while others charge separately based on consumption. This can significantly impact your total cost, so always clarify upfront.

Fuel-Included Operators:

• Typically build fuel costs into hourly rates
• May have usage limits for extended rentals
• Often preferred by customers for predictable pricing

Fuel-Separate Operators:

• Charge based on actual consumption
• May offer lower base rates
• Require fuel level checks at return

Average fuel consumption ranges from 3-8 gallons per hour depending on the jet ski model and riding style. Aggressive riding with frequent acceleration can double fuel consumption compared to cruising.

Can I beach the jet ski or tow a tube?

Beaching jet skis is generally prohibited due to hull and impeller damage risks. The shallow water and sand can cause expensive damage that will be charged to your deposit. Most operators provide specific instructions about minimum water depth requirements.

Towing tubes, skiers, or other watercraft is universally prohibited for safety and insurance reasons. Jet skis lack the stability and power characteristics needed for safe towing operations. Violations typically result in immediate rental termination and forfeiture of deposits.

Prohibited Activities:

• Beaching or running aground
• Towing any objects or people
• Jumping wakes aggressively
• Operating in restricted areas
• Exceeding passenger capacity

Allowed Activities:

• Cruising and sightseeing
• Photography (with waterproof equipment)
• Swimming stops in deep water
• Following designated routes
• Group riding with proper spacing

Conclusion

Finding where to rent jetskis has never been easier, with options ranging from traditional waterfront shops to innovative peer-to-peer platforms. Whether you’re seeking Chicago’s skyline views, Florida’s warm waters, or California’s ocean trips, the perfect rental awaits.

At Pure Watersports, we’re proud to offer on-the-water access from Dana Point Harbor, eliminating the hassle of towing and providing immediate access to Southern California’s premier jet skiing waters. Our expertise as Orange County’s leading Hobie dealer extends to our jet ski operations, ensuring you receive professional service and well-maintained equipment.

The key to a successful rental experience lies in preparation and choosing the right operator for your needs. Whether you prefer the comprehensive service of traditional shops or the flexibility of peer-to-peer platforms, prioritize safety, equipment quality, and transparent pricing.

Book your summer slots early, especially for popular destinations and peak season dates. The combination of growing popularity and limited equipment availability makes advance planning essential for securing your preferred dates and times.

Jet skiing is about more than just the ride – it’s about creating memories, exploring new waters, and experiencing the freedom that only comes from skimming across the surface at high speed. Choose your rental wisely, follow safety protocols, and prepare for an unforgettable trip on the water.

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