Demo Programs

Why Choose California Canoe & Kayak?

We are dedicated to providing the best gear, service, and value by carefully selecting all of the products in the stores. We test what we stock, and we won't sell what we don't use. Our knowledgeable sales staff, buyers, managers and instructors are avid paddlers as well as outdoor enthusiasts. We are proud to offer a wide selection of the highest quality products from the best known and most trusted paddlesports manufacturers in the industry.

Hourly Demo Rates

Our Oakland locations are located on the SF Bay. Both locations provide you the opportunity to test out the kayaks or SUP boards. You are charged our hourly rental rate which will be applied towards the purchase of a kayak or board up to 30 days. We are here to provide you with one on one service and guide you with your selection.

Demo Rates:

$75 Hobie Mirage Kayak Single

$100 Hobie Mirage Kayak Tandem

Hobie Adventure Island Sailing:

Hobie Mirage Sailing Kayaks are available for demo by appointment at Oakland (510-893-7833) or Redwood City location. The price is $300 to demo the tandem (Currently Not Available).  This is a three-hour demo with initial, on shore set-up instruction.  The entirety of the cost may be applied toward your purchase of an Adventure Island if completed within 30 days.

Another option is to sign up for our

60 Day Demo Program (single kayak)

“Try Before You Buy” Program gives you priority reservations, additional boat selection, gear and the option to visit other locations. If you are unsure of the exact boat that will match your needs, our staff is happy to assist you with your selection. The best way to choose your boat is to test paddle a variety of models and we make it easy for you.

Here is how it works:  Invest $300 for Sea Kayak (or $200 for Whitewater Kayaks) + tax into your future boat purchase. Buy a New or Used boat within the 60 day demo period and your demo fee will be applied toward your purchase. If you decide not to purchase a boat, the demo program fee will not be refunded. Certain qualifications must be met in order to participate in the demo program.

  • One boat may be taken out at a time per demo program.
  • Each boat may be taken off site a maximum of five days, in any combination of daily or weekend use.
  • Additional days or rentals will be charged at our normal, starting at the first day's rental rate.
  • Each boat model can be taken out twice.
  • Composite boats are available for on-site demo only.
  • For a whitewater kayak demo, you must have taken a whitewater course.
  • Sea kayak rental must have successful completed a paddle float rescue.

For questions, please contact one of our retail specialists or stop by one of our store locations near you.