A dual-blade paddle allows kayakers to build upper-body strength, increase their vessel's maneuverability, and discipline any rabid Popeyes biting chunks out of the boat. Defend your ship from spinach-fueled onslaught with today's Groupon: for $20, you get a full-day 12-foot kayak or standup-paddleboard rental from The Headwaters, located in Lodi (a $45 value).
The Headwaters strives to make the fine art of pointed-watercraft navigation more accessible with its kayak and paddleboard rentals. Solo riders can leisurely plumb freshwater river banks or embark on daring maritime feats such as kayaking through the Burger King drive-thru. Vertically inclined sailors can enjoy a full day on a paddleboard, a unique form of hydraulic navigation utilizing a surfboard-like conveyance and a single-blade oar. A mere mile from the current of the Mokelumne River, The Headwaters streamlines seafaring expeditions with its proximity to aquatic trailheads, and paddlers can enlist one of The Headwaters’ courier to transport rentals to the water’s edge (a $10 extra fee).
Amid the neon-hued paddles and wetsuits at The Headwaters' headquarters, rows of rainbow-colored boats nestle the walls, and Henna, the mascot dog, is ready to greet maritime travelers. After a long day of watercraft maneuvering, weary mariners can take an in-port snooze in one of several log rocking chairs until they see visions of St. Nick wearing sunglasses and floaties.
Headwaters Kayak Shop
Headwaters Kayak Shop's owners Dan and Ashlie Arbuckle strive to make aquatic exploration accessible by providing patrons with high-quality equipment, as well as moral support from their canine companion, Henna. The shop rents paddleboards and kayaks to paddlers intent on exploring the Mokelumne River and also organizes guided trips, exhibitions, and private or small group classes for newbies. In addition, fishing kayak packages rent out rod holders, fish finders, and scripts for tall tales about "the one that got away."