The Best Boat Rentals in San Antonio

Most standard pontoons on nearby lakes run about $125–$200 per hour, while wake and surf boats with a captain typically range from $175–$250 per hour. Half-day outings often land between $500 and $900, and full days usually total around $900 to $1,400 depending on boat size, season, and whether you add a captain. Your booking generally includes U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, required safety gear, a Bimini or shade, and Bluetooth audio. Fuel, pickup at a specific marina, and floating loungers or tubes may be included or added as options, and holiday weekends can carry premium pricing. Always check the listing details before you confirm.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons and tritoons for cruising and swimming, wake and ski boats for tubing and wakesurf sessions, plus bowriders and deck boats for all-around fun. Double-decker party pontoons with slides are popular for groups on Canyon Lake, and fishing-friendly setups are common on the power-plant lakes south of town. Large yachts are uncommon here because the boating is centered on inland lakes.

Both options are available. Many wake and surf boats are captained so you can focus on the fun, while pontoons are often self-operated for qualified renters. In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete an approved boater education course to operate a boat over 15 horsepower on public waters, and operators must carry photo ID and their boater card. If you book a captained trip, your captain handles the driving and navigation so you don’t need a boater card.

For Canyon Lake, the two primary launch points are Canyon Lake Marina on the north side and Cranes Mill Marina on the west side. If you’re heading west, Medina Lake departures commonly use the Park Road 37 public boat ramp in Lakehills or private facilities nearby. South of the city, many trips meet at the Calaveras Lake Park boat ramps or at Braunig Lake Park. Your confirmation will specify the exact meeting point and parking instructions for your chosen listing.

On Canyon Lake you’ll cruise over striking blue-green water framed by limestone bluffs, with views of the Canyon Lake Dam, coves that are sheltered for swimming, and a lively anchoring area locals nicknamed “Party Cove.” Medina Lake offers Hill Country scenery and quiet coves, while Calaveras and Braunig feature wide open basins with big-sky sunsets and frequent bird sightings. Expect warm water in summer and memorable sunset light year-round.

Texas requires anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 to complete a state-approved boater education course to operate a vessel powered by more than 15 horsepower or a windblown vessel over 14 feet. Operators must carry a photo ID and boater education card while underway. The minimum age to operate alone is generally 13 with the proper certification. If you hire a captain, you won’t need to meet these operator requirements.

Families are welcome. Every rental supplies U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets sized for your group, and Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket at all times while a vessel under 26 feet is underway. Let the owner know the ages and approximate weights of younger guests so they can stage the right sizes, and bring your own properly fitted infant PFD if you prefer.

Yes—most hosts allow coolers with snacks and beverages, and many boats include a built-in cooler or provide one on request. Avoid glass containers because some marinas and parks prohibit them. Open containers for passengers are legal in Texas on boats, but the operator must stay sober; boating while intoxicated carries the same serious penalties as driving under the influence. Plan a designated operator or book a captained outing if you want to celebrate.

Many listings are pet-friendly, often with a modest cleaning fee. Let the owner know you’re bringing a dog so they can advise on deck rules and provide a pet ladder or mat if available. At parks and marinas, pets generally must remain on a leash, and some designated swim beaches restrict animals, so follow posted signs when you load and unload.

Central Texas summers are hot, with pop-up thunderstorms possible, and spring and fall bring occasional fronts with gusty winds. If conditions are unsafe, most owners will reschedule or refund according to their policy, and platform refunds follow the cancellation terms set on the listing. For flexible planning, choose morning departures for smoother water and cooler temperatures, and build in a weather backup time when booking holiday weekends.

Absolutely. Double-decker pontoons and larger tritoons are ideal for 10–16 guests, and many captained wake boats can combine cruising with tubing or photo stops. Tell the owner your occasion, headcount, and any décor plans so they can advise on allowed decorations and cooler space. For the best pick of boats and time slots, book two to four weeks ahead for spring and early summer, and much earlier for Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day.

Peak lake season runs roughly May through September, with warm water and the biggest selection of boats. Spring and fall—especially April, May, September, and October—offer milder temperatures and great water clarity on Canyon Lake. The biggest boating holidays are Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day, which sell out early and have heavier ramp traffic. Fiesta San Antonio in late April brings citywide crowds, and New Braunfels’ Wurstfest in November draws visitors to the area; weekdays and early morning departures are your friend if you prefer a calmer day on the water.

Yes. On Canyon Lake, a sheltered cove near the south–west side is locally known as “Party Cove,” where boats idle, anchor, and swim on fair-weather weekends. Your captain or owner can guide you to calm coves suited to your group’s vibe, whether you want a low-key swim stop or a more social scene. As always, keep music at respectful levels, secure your trash, and follow no-wake and raft-up etiquette for a safe, fun day.