1

Kayak Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kayak Guide (PT Seasonal)

Lake Arrowhead, CA

$17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead guided kayak tours that are safe, educational, and aligned with the resort's luxury guest experience standards * Provide clear, friendly instruction on paddling techniques, lake safety, and ...

Flexible position including working in the rental booth, safety orientations, land & launch kayaks, cleaning rental equipment & being a kayak tour guide * Must be able to lift and move kayaks (60-90 ...

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

Benefits: * Company parties * Employee discounts * Flexible schedule * Free uniforms Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed! We are actively looking for more great individuals who ...

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed! We are actively looking for more great individuals who can help staff our operation for this coming busy season. Desire to have fun. No ...

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed! We are actively looking for more great individuals who can help staff our operation for this coming busy season. Desire to have fun. No ...

Retail Water Sport Store

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$30K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

The sports we support include SUP, Surfski, Kayak, Wingsurfing, Foiling, Outrigger Canoe, Surfing, and prone paddleboarding. Unlike most shops our focus is on hard goods and technical apparel over ...

Retail Water Sport Store

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$30K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

The sports we support include SUP, Surfski, Kayak, Wingsurfing, Foiling, Outrigger Canoe, Surfing, and prone paddleboarding. Unlike most shops our focus is on hard goods and technical apparel over ...

Electrophysiology - RN

Oxnard, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Electrophysiology RN Louisiana is one of the best states in the country for culture, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. If you're a healthcare professional considering your next assignment ...

OR - Surgical Tech

Oxnard, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

OR Surgical Tech Location: Portland, ME Updated: Aug 11, 2026 at 8:26PM UTC $1,848 - 1,937 Days, 12 hours 13 weeks This job is no longer available If you're looking for your next great adventure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Kayak information

See California salary details

$6

$15

$24

How much do kayak jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for kayak in California is $15.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.77 and $16.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What challenges do kayak tour guides face and how can they be addressed?

Kayak tour guides often encounter challenges such as managing groups with varying skill levels, unpredictable weather, and ensuring safety on the water. Effective communication, thorough pre-trip briefings, and contingency planning are essential for handling these issues. Guides must stay vigilant, adapt routes as needed, and foster teamwork among participants to create a positive and safe experience for everyone. Building strong rapport with guests and maintaining up-to-date safety certifications also contribute to successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is a kayak?

Kayaks are small, narrow watercraft that are typically propelled by means of a double-bladed paddle. Originally developed by indigenous peoples in the Arctic regions for hunting and transportation, kayaks are now widely used for recreation, sport, and adventure activities on rivers, lakes, and oceans. Modern kayaks come in various designs, including sit-in and sit-on-top styles, and are made from materials like plastic, fiberglass, or inflatable fabrics. They are popular for activities such as touring, whitewater paddling, fishing, and sea kayaking.

What is the difference between Kayak vs Travel Agent?

AspectKayakTravel Agent
CredentialsNo formal credentials requiredCertifications or licenses often preferred
Work EnvironmentOnline platform, remoteOffice or in-person consultations
Industry UsageTravel search engines, online bookingPersonalized travel planning, bookings
Search & ComparisonCompare prices across multiple providersCustomized travel options, expert advice

Kayak is an online travel search engine that compares prices across various providers, while a travel agent offers personalized travel planning and booking services. Kayak is ideal for self-service travelers seeking quick comparisons, whereas travel agents provide tailored assistance based on individual preferences.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a kayak guide?

To thrive as a Kayak Guide, you need strong paddling skills, water safety knowledge, and typically certifications such as CPR, First Aid, and sometimes ACA or BCU instructor credentials. Familiarity with GPS devices, rescue equipment, and weather tracking systems is also important for guiding trips safely. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help guides manage groups and respond to emergencies effectively. These skills and qualifications ensure guest safety, enhance the overall experience, and allow guides to handle challenging situations on the water.

What are popular job titles related to Kayak jobs in California?

For Kayak jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Kayak jobs?

Cities in California with the most Kayak job openings:

Infographic showing various Kayak job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,533 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Kayak Guide (PT Seasonal)

Benchmark

Lake Arrowhead, CA

$17.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Welcome to Pyramid Global Hospitality, where people come first. As a company that values its employees, Pyramid Global Hospitality is dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters diversity, growth, development, and wellbeing. Our commitment to a People First culture is reflected in our approach to employee development, employee benefits and our dedication to building meaningful relationships.

Pyramid Global Hospitality offers a range of employment benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, as well as unique perks such as on-site wellness programs, local discounts, and employee rates on hotel stays. In addition, Pyramid Global Hospitality is committed to providing ongoing training and development opportunities to help our people build the skills and knowledge they need to advance their careers.

Whether you are just starting out in the hospitality industry or are a seasoned professional, Pyramid Global Hospitality offers a supportive and collaborative work environment that encourages growth and fosters success, in over 230 properties worldwide. Join their team and experience the benefits of working for a company that values its employees and is committed to creating exceptional guest experiences.

Check out this video for more information on our great company!

About our property:

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is nestled high atop the majestic San Bernardino Mountains at an elevation of 5,174'. This Resort is surrounded by an ocean of Ponderosa Pines and gives guests exclusive access to Lake Arrowhead, a reservoir with a surface area of 780 acres. Lake Arrowhead is the perfect location for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and offers a variety of summertime and wintertime activities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, water skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ziplining, and more. The resort includes a Bar & Restaurant, Spa & Wellness Center, Outdoor Pool & Lake Beach as well as over 23,000 sq. ft of meeting and events space.

What you will have an opportunity to do:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Lead guided kayak tours that are safe, educational, and aligned with the resort's luxury guest experience standards
  • Provide clear, friendly instruction on paddling techniques, lake safety, and equipment use for all skill levels
  • Conduct pre-tour safety briefings and ensure proper use of life jackets and equipment
  • Monitor lake conditions, weather, and guest ability to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing
  • Assist guests with launching, docking, and handling kayaks with a high level of attentiveness and care
  • Deliver elevated guest service by engaging guests, anticipating needs, and creating memorable moments on the water
  • Share knowledge of Lake Arrowhead's history, wildlife, and natural surroundings to enrich the guest experience
  • Maintain, clean, and inspect all kayaking equipment to ensure safety and presentation standards are met
  • Respond quickly and effectively to emergencies; administer first aid as necessary
  • Uphold all resort policies, safety protocols, and Forbes/AAA-level service expectations (if applicable)
  • Support additional recreation programming, seasonal events, and resort activities as needed

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous kayaking, outdoor recreation, or guiding experience preferred
  • American Canoe Association (ACA) Kayak Instructor Certification
  • Strong swimming ability required
  • Lifeguard, CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required (or ability to obtain upon hire)
  • Knowledge of lake safety, weather awareness, and risk management practices
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a guest-first mindset
  • Professional, polished demeanor consistent with a resort environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and peak season

What are we looking for?

PREFERRED / GOOD TO HAVE:

  • Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver kayaks and equipment (up to 50 lbs)
  • Ability to paddle for extended periods and assist guests physically when needed
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying mountain weather conditions
  • Safety Awareness & Risk Management
  • Communication & Engagement
  • Environmental Stewardship
  • Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder

Compensation:

$17.50

-

$17.50

Pyramid Global Hospitality is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations.