Find the best San Diego, CA Boat Rentals and Yacht Charters
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Top boat rentals in San Diego, CA
$119+
Rent a Boat in San Diego
Boaters and tourists alike visit San Diego for its beautiful scenery stretching 70 miles down the gorgeous California coastline. Most visitors to the area will want to check out popular attractions like Mission Beach and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, but don’t be afraid to step out of the hustle-and-bustle to explore more scenic areas—many of which are only accessible and enjoyed by boat.
What to Know
Popular boat types in San Diego include:
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Day boats, like bowriders, pontoons, and deck boats are perfect for lounging in local bays, while larger boats, such as center consoles or cruisers, will provide a more comfortable ride out in the Pacific Ocean or for deep sea fishing.
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Motor yachts are the best option for bachelor or bachelorette parties, birthday parties, and sightseeing along the California coastline.
Safety Requirements:
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Boating License/Education Rules: California Vessel Operator Card (CVOC) required to operate a vessel. Users must be 16 or older to operate a motorboat of 15 hp or greater, if unsupervised. Those 12-15 years of age may operate under supervision of a person 18 or older who is on board.
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Life Jacket Requirements: 12 and under must wear a PFD.
For more information, visit the California Department of Parks & Recreation.
Where to dock your boat or meet your rental:
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Harbor Island West Marina
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Seaforth Marina
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Safe Harbor Sunroad
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Safe Harbor Cabrillo Isle
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Shelter Island Marina
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Kona Kai Marina
Weather Conditions
The weather in San Diego varies greatly by season. Summer’s here are short and hot with clear skies. While winter is long and cool with partially cloudy skies. Locals and tourists alike soak in San Diego’s great outdoors between Mid-June to October.
Avg. Temperature High: Peaks around 77°F in August
Avg. Temperature Low: Daily high is 66°F; drops as low as 49°F in December.
Avg. Water Temperatures in San Diego during the Summer:
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69°F in May
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72°F in June
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76°F in July
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77°F in August
Learn more in Boating in San Diego: Everything You Need to Know.
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Top boat rental reviews in San Diego, CA
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1/12
Chris
Jan 20255/5 starsCraig is a stellar host, boat was in tip top shape and he was very thorough with his instructions. Definitely recommend
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2/12
Harrison
Jan 20255/5 starsI couldn't be more impressed! Kai was communicative, helpful, and on top of it to make renting his boat such a great experience. He truly...Read more
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3/12
Shahrzad
Jan 20255/5 starsWe had a wonderful time and the crew was great!
Will definitely recommend and hope to book again! -
4/12
Bruno
Jan 20255/5 stars -
5/12
Don
Jan 20255/5 starsThis is the second time i rented this boat and service was flawless as expected. Easy communication, clean new boat ready to roll.
Always...Read more -
6/12
Tushar
Dec 20245/5 starsWe had an amazing experience renting a boat from Kai! From the moment we arrived, he was super friendly and made us feel at ease with his...Read more
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7/12
Luke
Dec 20245/5 starsCapt Trevor was excellent. My family went whale watching for 3 hrs and we all enjoyed it. The boat is comfortable and clean, easy...Read more
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8/12
Conor
Dec 20245/5 starsCraig is the best. The boat was in great condition and equipped for everything we wanted to do in the bay and out in the pacific. Craig...Read more
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9/12
Michelle
Dec 20245/5 starsCrew
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10/12
Don
Dec 20245/5 starsGreat experience with Kai and his boat service. After exchanging a few messages, place and time was confirmed. By the time we got to the...Read more
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11/12
Roman
Dec 20245/5 starsThis would be my second time renting with Kai. An absolutely hassle free experience every time, Kai is very easy to communicate and is...Read more
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12/12
Laura
Dec 20245/5 starsExcellent captain and crew. Great experience great boat.
Things to Do in San Diego by Boat
Explore Mission Beach & Cruise by the USS Midway
Dating back to 1925, the Mission Beach area lures boaters from all over the world to tour its coastline and walk on its famous boardwalk. While in the area, take your boat rental south past Point Loma near Coronado, and be sure to cruise by the USS Midway Museum that’s docked right near the cruise ship terminal and Seaport Village.
Pro Tips: Have a boat dog on board? Just south of Mission Beach and north of Point Loma is Dog Beach. Allow your pup to play off-leash and swim in the waves before hopping back onboard.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Boat ramps: Santa Clara Boat Launch, Ski Beach Boat Launch, Dana Boat Landing Marina
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Lat/Long: 32.7707° N, 117.2514° W
Sailing Along the Coast to Point Loma
Sailing in San Diego might just be the best way to understand what makes this particular west coast destination so unique; its history! You can sail from any of its three main harbors: Oceanside, Mission Bay, and The Big Bay, before cruising past some of the most popular scenic locations like the Point Loma Peninsula, Coronado, the Downtown Waterfront and Chula Vista.
Pro Tips: If you’re new to sailing, you’ll want to book a boat with a local licensed captain who can not only show you the ropes on how to sail, but also share some facts about San Diego’s rich maritime history.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Boat ramps: Dana Landing Rd Boat Launch
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Lat/Long: 39.2592° N, 74.9837° W
Fishing in San Diego Bay
San Diego is best known for its deep sea fishing scene, particularly when it comes to bluefin tuna. These waters have fish biting year-round in San Diego Bay, plus locations like the Pacific Ocean, along the surf, and in inland lakes and reservoirs. The top target species include California halibut, rockfish, white seabass, yellowtail amberjack, and tuna. Focus on spots like Shelter Island and Coronado Cays for the best catches.
Pro Tips: Local fishing hot spots include Shelter Island and Coronado Cays, but for the best experience, consider heading out with a fishing charter to have a professional captain guide your adventure.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Boat ramps: Pepper Park Boat Ramps, Chula Vista Boat Launching Boat
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Lat/Long: 32.6717° N, 117.1441° W
Where to Go Boating in San Diego
Mission Bay
Mission Bay is great for anyone looking to try multiple on-the-water activities and watersports. The western region of this bay is an exclusive watersport zone for your crew to try jet skiing, kite surfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and more. Boat near Fiesta Island for gentle waters, perfect for yoga paddle boarding and slow, casual cruising. Be aware of Wake Zone signs when boating here.
Pro Tips: If you’re looking for a beach day while in the Mission Bay area, you’re in luck! The Bay offers a few lively beaches, each unique and attractive in its own right. For the ultimate San Diego beach experience, we recommend heading to Mission and Pacific Beach for swanky surf shops, beach bars, and nightclubs.
For the anglers of the group, target fish species in Mission Bay include: Jacksmelt, surfperch, spotted sand bass, bat ray, turbot, and yellowfin croaker.
Where to dock
There are a number of places to dock your boat or meet your rental at Mission Bay
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Full Service Marina
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Dana Landing Marina
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Mariner’s Cove
Boat ramps
There are several places to launch your boat along the shores of Mission Bay.
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Ski Beach Boat Launch
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Marina Village Boating Area
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Montezuma Cove Ramp
Lake Murray Reservoir
The Lake Murray Reservoir is an inland body of water located approximately 20 minutes from downtown San Diego. Located in Mission Trails Regional Park, this lake is a great spot to rent a fishing boat to catch black crappie, bass, bluegill, and catfish abound. It’s also a great place for families to enjoy a day of boating or kayaking before hosting their own afternoon BBQ.
Pro Tips: If you’re coming from downtown San Diego, take I-8 E to Mission Trail Regional Park for the fastest route. Note that Murray Reservoir is closed on the second Tuesday of every month, and is otherwise open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Target fish species in Lake Murray include: Blue catfish, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish, and a small population of black crappie.
Where to dock
There are several places to dock your boat or meet your rental along Round Valley shores.
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Lake Murray Boat Launch Ramp
Boat ramps
There are several places to launch your boat along the shores of Round Valley Reservoir.
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Lake Murray Boat Launch Ramp
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach is located just south of La Jolla, where you can catch surfers, sunbathers, and swimmers enjoying the chilly Pacific waters. Beginners and pros interested in surfing should head to Tourmaline Surf Park. If you’re looking for a family-friendly vibe, boat around North Pacific Beach. Anglers should also check out Crystal Pier, which is known to be one of the area's best fishing spots.
Pro Tips: For families with small children who are still learning how to swim, life guards are stationed at North Pacific Beach down to Mission Beach. The main lifeguard tower is located at the end of Grand Avenue.
Target fish species at Pacific Beach includes: Jacksmelt, walleye surfperch, Pacific mackerel, barred surfperch, yellowfin croaker, Pacific bonito, and more.
Where to dock
There are a number of places to dock your boat or meet your rental along the inland coast of Pacific Beach:
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Pacific Beach Wharf
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Montezuma Bay
Boat ramps
There are several places to launch your boat:
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Montezuma Cove Ramp
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Santa Clara Launch Ramp
Dock & Dine at San Diego Waterfront Restaurants
Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar
- Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Hours: Mon – Sat 11am - 10pm; Sun 10am - 10pm
- Reservations: Online here.
- Seating capabilities: Indoor & outdoor
- Type of food: Seafood, bar food
- Dockage available: Yes
Miguel's Cocina
- Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Hours: Mon - Thurs 11am to 9:30pm; Fri & Sat - 11am - 10pm; Sun - 10am - 9:30pm
- Reservations: For parties of six or more only.
- Seating capabilities: Indoor & outdoor
- Type of food: Mexican
- Dockage available: Yes
Ketch Grill & Taps
- Address:1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Hours: Mon - Thurs - 11am - 9:30pm; Fri & Sat - 11am - 10pm
- Reservations: For parties of six or more only.
- Seating capabilities: Indoor & outdoor
- Type of food: Seafood, bar food
- Dockage available: Yes
Check Out Additional San Diego Boating Guide
- Fishing in San Diego Guide
- Sailing in San Diego Guide
- Deep Sea Fishing San Diego: Tips & Charter Information
- Tuna Fishing in San Diego: 10 Tips for Catching Bluefin
- 5 Best Waterfront Restaurants in San Diego to Get to by Boat
- Sunset Cruises in San Diego: Rentals, Locations & Planning
- 14 Water Activities to Do in San Diego
Frequently asked questions in San Diego
What makes Boatsetter different from other boat rental platforms?
What makes Boatsetter different is peace of mind. Boatsetter is the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer boat rental. We know choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your experience while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.
How to rent a boat on Boatsetter?
At Boatsetter, our mission is to make getting out on the water as easy as possible. With our intuitive booking system, you can rent a boat as soon as today.
-First, you must determine your budget and the type of boat you want to rent.
-Next, decide where you would like to boat and the kind of boat you would like to spend the day on.
-Finally, determine if you will be needing a boat captain and reach out to the boat owner.
That's it! You’re officially on your way to a fantastic day out on the water.
How much does it cost to rent a boat?
The cost to rent a boat depends on whether you are renting for a half-day or a full day, the boat features and the boat size can impact your boat rental price. Rental prices can range from $200 to $1,000 plus depending on the boat rental itself and the length of time of the rental.
How many people can fit on the boat rental?
The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat's size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.
How much does it cost to rent a yacht?
The cost of renting a yacht depends on the boat’s size and the amount of time you'll use the yacht. The onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations also dictate the price. You can contact our yacht specialists for a custom quote by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters.
How old do you have to be to rent a boat?
You must be 18 years old to rent a captained boat and 25 years old if you would like to rent a bareboat charter.
Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?
Boating license requirements vary from state to state. As a renter, you are responsible for understanding local state requirements.
Can you rent a yacht for the day?
Boatsetter allows you to rent a yacht for the day. Single-day yacht rentals are available for a select number of yachts. To chat with a yacht specialist please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters.
Can you rent a yacht for the week?
Boatsetter allows its customers to rent a yacht for the week. Renting a yacht for a week gives you more access to the wide range of yachts available on our platform. You can either book a rental directly through the site or connect with one of our charter specialists to plan your trip here: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters.
Can you rent a yacht for the month?
Booking a month-long yacht rental is a detailed and hands-off process when working with our team of yacht charter specialists. We tailor each yacht charter to our client's specific wants and needs. Our luxury yacht charter specialists can be reached at (954) 715-4114 or by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters.
Own a boat?
Boatsetter lets you make money renting out your boat. Peace of mind and insurance is included in every rental, and you choose who rents your boat.
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