Best Recreational Kayaks for Ultimate Fun in 2022

Who doesn’t like kayaking? Actually, we all do. But, in different forms. Some may like kayak fishing, some kayak touring and some may like kayaking just for the sake of recreation. No matter the means, nobody can deny that kayaking is an unprecedented source of joy.

However, there are differences among kayaks. Touring kayaks won’t have the same features as fishing kayaks. The same applies for sports kayaks or sea kayaks.

As you learned kayaks are not the same. Finding the right one based on the purpose of use is crucial for its utility.

As you are here you are up for choosing or researching best recreational kayaks but the problem is it takes you lots of time and energy.

Yet better, if I do the legwork and figure it out for you?

What is recreational kayaking?

Are you in the market to buy a kayak? You'll notice there are many types to choose from, and if you're a beginner, the process may be a bit overwhelming.

It's important to know that kayaks are categorized into two types by their styles: sit-in kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks.

On the other hand, it's also categorized by their use, such as Touring kayaks, fishing kayaks, tandem kayaks, and recreational kayaks.

A recreational kayak is Kind of kayak designed with entertainment and fun on water in mind. It’s best for touring and casual paddling. Recreational kayaks stand out from other types of kayaks due to their comfortable seats and ease of opening.

Generally, kayaks of this kind come in longer shapes and light weight for the convenience of riding and carrying. There are a lot of kayak have in the market such as fishing kayak,

For obvious reasons, the price of recreation is cheaper compared to others.

9 Best recreational kayaks for Touring

Likewise said earlier, what if I assess the key factors that determine the quality and utility of recreational kayaks and pick the tops? So, this section comes with my hand picked lists.

Are you excited enough to embrace the list of those hot floating machines?

Get started?

Wilderness Systems PUNGO 120

Wilderness systems PUNGO 120 is a small to medium size paddler. With the speed being up to the mark making it one of the best recreational kayaks. You can sit inside the kayaks which offer three ergonomically supported cozy seats! Ergonomic seats are good for back pain.

The boats come with their renowned hulls which are famous for stability. For carrying electronics on the go, the Pungo dashboard has a removable dry box, two cup holders, Slidetrax for accessories, and a recess to accommodate the Wilderness Systems battery.

With a boat length of 12' 2" and weight of 49 lbs, it is perfect for casual touring needs.

Two customizable mounting platforms come with a removable dry box, two cup holders, slide tracks for holding mounts for phones, fishing rods and other accessories, and a removable dry box.

Wilderness Systems also designed a recess to store a lithium battery (sold separately) that can charge your electronics on the go. This model can accommodate small and medium sized paddlers.

Key Features

• The Rigid Carry Handles: The Rigid Carry Handles are a strong, comfortable way to carry your kayak when you are paddling or hiking. They are designed to be durable and very comfortable.
• Phase 3 Air Pro: The seat cushion is made from a very special foam called phase 3, which is a mix of foam and gel that works together to provide maximum comfort.
• Orbix Hatch: The orbix hatch is a full-fledged compartment that will provide enough space for almost everything you might need to carry. It has a seal that will make sure that water does not come in.
• Deck Skid Plate: Deck Skid Plate will help to protect your kayak in case you are taking a spill or if there is an object that is protruding from the surface.

Pelican Maxim 100X Recreational Kayak

Pelican Maxim Kayak is a lightweight and easy to carry boat with Front and Rear T-Handles. The kayak has also built in storage compartments such as a bungee-corded hatch and a mesh deck cover to store all of your gear for your next kayak trip.

This kayak's hull design features a shallow V for enhanced maneuverability and stability. The cockpit table of the kayak comes with a bottle holder, molded footrests for comfort and secure foot bracing, and a drain plug prevents water from entering.

Additionally, the ergoform seating system comes with a padded seat cushion and an adjustable padded backrest cushion that provide better support.

So, based on the features this kayak offers, overall can be said this kayak is best for outdoor sports and touring.

Key Features

• V-Chine Hull: The V-chine hull design of this kayak offers excellent stability, maneuverability, and safety in the water.
• Premium Molded Deck: Pelican Maxim molded deck is built with a durable material that will last for years to come.
• Safety: This kayak comes equipped with a safety strap that will hold you in place if you fall overboard.

Perception Joyride 10

This kayak is so cool and comfortable! It's perfect for cruising around the lake or ocean and you can even take your whole family out on it too!

The seat and paddling area are made of soft padded foam material, which will give you the maximum amount of comfort as well as reduce chafing and other uncomfortable areas.

There are also two drink holders and a storage hatch so you can keep your stuff within easy reach when you're on the water. The seat is adjustable to fit different paddlers' heights as well as positions, and there's also a convenient built-in selfie slot.

The paddle wheels are also adjustable, allowing you to customize the paddling experience based on your skill level.

You can use them as you would a traditional kayak paddle or attach a strap to them and use them as a stand-alone boat paddle.

Key Features

• Adjustable Seat: The kayak got an adjustable seat back and leg lift feature. It also comes with a storage hatch with Hinged Lid.
• Self-Inflation Air-Filled Seat:  It features an integrated inflatable seat cushion that automatically inflates when the boat is tipped over.
• Safety: As this is leaf-proof one-piece construction making this one of the safest kayaks.
• Two Way Seat: The kayak features a two-way adjustable seat to help you find the perfect position and to ensure your comfort all day long.
• 2-Easy Access Storage: You can stow gear, books, electronics, and more in the easy-access storage compartments.
• Solo Mounting: The kayak features two Solo Mounting recesses in the dashboard, allowing you to add more accessories to the Kayak.

Perception Rambler 13.5

Rambler kayak is designed with two people sitting capacity in mind. The kayak can even be customized for solo paddlers with installation of 4 decks. The Seat can also be removable.

You can use this kayak on lakes, ocean bays, light surf or even slow-moving rivers.

It also has a large rear open storage for cooler and other gear. This kayak is perfect for beginners as well all skill levels.

Key Features

• Stable and Easy to Handle: The Rambler provides superior stability for paddling in windy conditions or in rough water. The stable sit-on-top design makes it extremely safe and easy for any paddler to get in and out of. Sit-on-top kayaks are especially stable for beginners and intermediates who are learning to balance in a kayak.
• Ease of Use: The Rambler features a large cockpit and an easy-access, padded seat that are designed to provide a great fit for the paddler. The adjustable backrest can accommodate most body types. Paddlers of varying sizes and heights can also adjust the padded seat.
• Rugged and Durable: The Rambler is made from high-density polyethylene, which makes it tough and strong, and resistant to punctures and scratches.
• As a result of the construction, the product is UV, impact, and abrasion resistant.
• Easy to Store and Transport: The Rambler is easy to transport because it can be folded into a compact package. The kayak is designed for maximum storage in a car trunk or boat compartment.

Pelican - River Gorge 130X Tandem Kayak

This kayak is really easy to handle with an adjustable seat which is made of foam making it comfortable, and fits the back.

The kayak is pretty good size as well. The footrests are nice and firm. They're molded, and they have cushions on them. Also, easy to get in and out of.

The cockpit is really spacious. It has two storage boxes on it. One is large enough for a backpack, and the other is for a fishing rod or a paddle. The front storage box is a little smaller, and it's for a camera or sunglasses.

There's also a small storage compartment in the stern. It has a few more pockets as well. There are four eyelets on the sides, so you can hang your stuff.

There's also a bungee cord system which is really convenient, and it makes it easy to hang items on the side.

The kayak is also sturdy. It doesn't let anything fall off, and is secure.

Key Features

• Adjustable Seat: You can adjust the seating position to suit your preference. This makes the kayak ideal for fishing, canoeing, stand up paddling, and whitewater paddling.
• Quick-Lock Box: There is a convenient storage compartment with a quick-lock lid, which you can put in the front and back for your convenience.
• Storage Platform: You can store things on the storage platform to make space in the boat.
• Molded Footrests: The footrests are molded directly into the gunnels to provide a stable and secure foot support when you paddle.
• Accessory Eyelets: There are 4 accessory eyelets on the gunnels, which are designed to allow you to attach your favorite accessories and kayak equipment.

Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak

This is an awesome kayak, and has lots of storage room inside of it! There are also plenty of rooms for your family and friends to be able to sit down and have fun together on this kayak.

The cockpit is nice and big so if you want to bring along a dog or a child, it should fit perfectly! It is very easy to paddle and I love how light and easy it is to move around in the water.

This kayak would be a good purchase for someone who wants to go out on a kayaking trip, but also wants to bring their dog along as well.

Key Features

• Tandem Sit-On-Top Kayak: You can enjoy sun and surf with a friend or a furry companion with the kayak's three seating positions, which support solo, tandem, or tandem paddling with a child or pet thanks to this feature.
• Open Hull: An open hull allows easy access to stored items in the bow or stern.
• Seating Positions: Three seating positions including solo, tandem, and two seater.
• Comfort: Patent-pending overlapping foot wells make getting on and off the kayak easier.
• Lifetime Warranty:The kayak comes with a lifetime service warranty.

Wilderness Systems Pungo 105

With over 20 years in the kayak industry, the Wilderness Systems team has created a kayak that is more stable, faster, and more comfortable than ever before. The Punto hull is designed to give maximum stability, performance, and efficiency.

The Punto's patented phase 3 air seating system is designed to be the most comfortable air seat ever produced, and the cockpit features a wide variety of storage and mounting options.

Key Features

• Size for Everyone: The new Punto is a perfect fit for a variety of paddlers. It's the perfect kayak for beginners or people who prefer a small kayak.
• Seat: The Punto features a phase 3 air Pro seating system that can be adjusted to fit the paddler's height, weight, and paddling style.
• Dashboard: The new Punto features a dashboard that includes two cup holders, a slide track for phone mounting, and a recess designed for the Wilderness Systems lithium battery).
• Mounting Platforms: The new Punto has two custom mounting platforms that are easily mounted and removed.
• Storage: There is a space for dry boxes, and a built-in recessed battery shelf for a Wilderness Systems lithium battery.

Wilderness Systems PUNGO 120

The Pungo was originally introduced in 2006 and it has been consistently on top of paddling magazines ratings ever since. It is a durable kayak that can handle just about any conditions.

The stability and handling make it easy for beginners to learn how to paddle and an advanced paddler to keep up their pace.

The Pungo was a huge hit because it was easy to paddle yet it still had good handling characteristics that made it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. It was one of the first kayaks to have a flip flop that could be adjusted to be worn either on the left or right side depending on your preference.

The Pungo also was one of the first kayaks to come with a rear cargo net that made carrying anything much easier.

Key Features

• Quick and Easy Launch: With a quick release pin that connects to the frame, the PUNGO is easy to launch.
• Flexible Design: Through skillful engineering, the new PUNGO features a size for everyone. A 10.5 foot model is a compact package designed to fit a variety of paddlers, a 12 foot model accommodates small and medium sized paddlers, and a 12.5 for a large fit.
• Cockpit Access: A recessed storage compartment allows you to access your cockpit from either side of the kayak, giving you complete access to your gear. The new cockpit layout also includes space for additional gear.
• Honeycomb Venting: Honeycomb venting channels the water away from your cockpit, creating a dry environment to help keep you comfortable.
• Ergonomic and Comfortable: The new cockpit design provides a level of comfort and support, while the mesh covering provides an exceptional fit for your body.

Goplus Sit-on-Top Kayak

This is an awesome product for outdoor activities. It is suitable for water sports such as surfing, bodyboarding, and kite surfing, or just swimming around the lake or in the sea.

People of all ages can use the kayak, but it is best suited for people of the younger age group. It is designed to give the user the most extreme experience while playing on the water.

Key Features

• 2-Bodyboard: Bodyboarding is one of the most fun ways to have a good time in the water. It is the perfect way to spend some time in the sun while riding up and down the ocean or the river.
• 3-Floating Pad: Water floating pad is one of the most popular recreational devices today. It has the advantages of being easy to use, portable and cheap.
• 4-Trampoline: Trampoline is the perfect way for people of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy physical activity.

Read Beforehand and Win Over Best Recreational Kayak Purchase

Whether you're an avid whitewater enthusiast, a weekend warrior, or simply someone who enjoys kayaking as a pastime, there are plenty of kayak models to fit every preference and budget. Here are some of the most popular types of recreational kayaks and quick comparisons.

Tandem

Tandems are the most popular choice among casual and recreational paddlers, offering a great balance between stability and maneuverability.

Typically, they are equipped with two single seats, two-foot pegs, and are constructed of lightweight materials such as fiberglass.

Single

Single seats are typically less stable than tandem seats and are most commonly found in racing kayaks. Single seats offer more maneuverability but less stability than a tandem.

Canoe

Canoes are typically more stable than a kayak, but less maneuverable than a racing boat. They are generally constructed of fiberglass and are equipped with a single seat and a cockpit-style hatch.

Stand Up Paddle boards

Stand-up paddle boards are gaining popularity due to their ease of use and maneuverability. They are usually constructed of wood and foam and are equipped with a single seat and a kicktail.

Recreational Kayaks

There are three primary types of recreational kayaks on the market, each of which is suited to a different style of paddling.

Racing

Racing kayaks are designed to be fast and maneuverable, and are generally constructed of lighter materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, and aluminum.

Racing boats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small to large. Some of the most popular models include the Hobie Mirage, H2O, and Kona Lightning.

Sport

Sport kayaks are designed to be stable and maneuverable, making them suitable for a variety of paddling styles.

Most sport models are constructed of polyethylene foam, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular models include the Outback Sport, Venture, and the Ocean Kayak Enzo.

Surf

Surf kayaks are usually constructed of light materials like fiberglass and plastic, and are designed to be stable and maneuverable, making them ideal for surf kayaking.

Most models come equipped with a sit-on-top seating system and a cockpit-style hatch.

Comparison

As with any purchase, you should always compare multiple models before deciding on one, but here are some general guidelines to help you narrow down the field.

Length

If you're looking for a boat that's ideal for your lifestyle, you may want to consider one of the shorter models.

Larger kayaks will make it more difficult to navigate shallow areas and reach certain obstacles, while smaller kayaks may not provide enough stability to avoid tipping over.

Seat Size

This is one of the most important considerations when choosing a boat, as larger seats are better for long days in the water. If you plan to spend most of your time in shallow waters, you'll need a kayak with a smaller seat.

Otherwise, you may find yourself needing a larger seat after extended periods of time in deep water.

Seating System

Most recreational kayaks are equipped with a sit-on-top seating system, but the type you choose will depend on the type of paddling you intend to do.

The most popular types of kayak seating systems include the sit-on-top, sit-in-the-hole, and cockpit-style systems.

Size

When you're comparing models, you'll want to look for one that's ideal for your body type. When it comes to size, bigger is usually better.

If you're tall, you'll want a model that's longer than it is wide. If you're short, you may want a shorter model. The width of a kayak can also vary greatly, depending on the type of paddling you plan to do.

Weight

When it comes to weight, heavier models will require more effort to lift out of the water, making them more difficult to carry around and store.

If you plan on taking a kayak camping or hiking, it's important to weigh the model down with all the gear you'll need for a day in the wilderness. It is important to consider the weight when buying the best recreational kayak.

Material

You'll want to consider the type of material used when choosing a model. Fiberglass and polyethylene models.

Conclusion

Who doesn’t enjoy boat riding? Everybody does. And, kayaking is even more fun. But, of all kayaking sports and outdoor recreational kayaking is more fun than all of the others. And, it is a worthwhile investment for entertainment purposes as long as it's a good purchase.

And, to make that purchase worth it, this post put everything in place.

If you are still confused over choosing the best recreational, check out this one.