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Kayaking Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Women's Vascular Summit

Additional outpatient image-guided therapies based on physician interests and expertise Community ... kayaking * A short drive to Lake Cumberland for lake living and water sports #J-18808-Ljbffr

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Kayaking Guide information

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$29

How much do kayaking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for kayaking guide in the United States is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kayaking guide?

Kayaking Guides are outdoor professionals who lead individuals or groups on kayaking trips, ensuring safety, providing instruction, and sharing knowledge about the local environment. They are responsible for planning routes, supplying equipment, and teaching proper paddling techniques. Kayaking Guides also often share information about wildlife, natural features, and local history, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable. Their primary goal is to create a safe, memorable, and fun adventure for all participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kayaking guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kayaking Guide, you need strong paddling proficiency, water safety knowledge, and typically a relevant certification such as ACA or BCU. Familiarity with GPS devices, rescue equipment, and first aid/CPR certification are commonly required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and crisis management skills help guides effectively instruct and reassure diverse groups. These abilities are vital for ensuring client safety, providing memorable experiences, and responding calmly to emergencies in dynamic outdoor environments.

What are some common challenges faced by kayaking guides, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kayaking Guides often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying skill levels among clients, and ensuring group safety on the water. Managing these challenges involves thorough pre-trip briefings, continuous monitoring of environmental conditions, and adapting plans as needed to prioritize safety. Effective communication and strong situational awareness are essential, as is maintaining certifications in first aid and water rescue. Building experience through regular training helps guides handle unexpected situations confidently.

What is the difference between Kayaking Guide vs Canoe Guide?

AspectKayaking GuideCanoe Guide
CertificationsFirst Aid, CPR, paddling certificationsFirst Aid, CPR, paddling certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, calm or whitewaterRivers, lakes, calm or whitewater
Industry UsageAdventure tourism, outdoor recreationAdventure tourism, outdoor recreation
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both kayaking guides and canoe guides work in outdoor water environments, often in adventure tourism. They require similar certifications and serve similar industries. The main difference lies in the type of watercraft they specialize in—kayaking guides focus on kayaks, while canoe guides work with canoes. Their roles are comparable, with overlapping skills and work settings, making them common points of comparison for those interested in water-based guiding careers.

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What cities are hiring for Kayaking Guide jobs?

Cities with the most Kayaking Guide job openings:

What states have the most Kayaking Guide jobs?

States with the most job openings for Kayaking Guide jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Kayaking Guide jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Kayaking Guide jobs are:

Kayaking Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kayaking Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,919 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Kayak Coordinator

Spinnaker Resorts

Hilton Head Island, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

WHO WE ARE

Spinnaker Resorts develops, markets and provides property management for 12 resorts that offer different experiences, as each location has unique topography and local flavor. From the low-key coastal paradise of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, to the sunny shores of Ormond Beach, Florida, to the neon and natural draw of the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri, or to the historical charm of Williamsburg, Virginia – Spinnaker Resorts has developed resorts that our owners and guests love to return to after previously experiencing vacation days filled with leisure and exploration.

An award-winning vacation ownership company, Spinnaker Resorts offers a variety of opportunities for talented individuals who seek a rewarding career in helping make vacation ownership dreams come true. What makes us memorable, in addition to our excellent quality accommodations, amenities and property management, is our company’s exceptional customer service and dedication to our owners and guests.

As we continue to expand our operations, consider starting a career with a company made up of over 600 industry professionals dedicated to one common goal: providing our owners and guests with the most extraordinary vacation experience possible.

Click here to meet the Spinnaker Family! Testimonials from team members from various locations and roles. Could you see yourself joining our team?

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

The Outdoor Recreation Coordinator is responsible for all on-water and dock functions of the Bluewater Resort and Marina, as well as assisting or leading other resort activities such as arts and crafts, bike rides, pool games or informational talks. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Oversee the operation of the Bluewater Resort kayak and fishing programs and equipment use. 
  • Maintain and clean all fishing, kayaking and outdoor sporting equipment. 
  • Work in conjunction with other recreation and activities team members. 
  • Ensure all policies, procedures and safety measures are followed for Bluewater’s dock and recreational programs and areas. 
  • Serve as the on-water guide for all Bluewater kayaking program activities.
  • Oversee the kayaking, fishing, crabbing and outdoor sport area equipment inventory. 
  • Have the ability to assist or lead in Resort activity programs such as: aqua fitness, bike rides, arts and crafts, children’s programs, pool games, cook-outs and lead guided shuttle tours to areas of local interests. 
  • Keep and maintain records of equipment use, program participation and inventory use an needs.
  • Complete other duties as assigned.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • High School Diploma or GED. 
  • Prior demonstrated experience working with recreational fishing or kayaking programs. 
  • Ability to demonstrate strong paddling skills.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with MS Office Suite. 
  • Ability to work week days and weekends, as well as overtime as needed. 
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills (oral and written)
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Must be willing to work in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain and sun. 
  • Must be willing and able to lift at least 50 lbs.
  • Positive, outgoing personality. 
  • Willing and able to obtain CPR certification.

OPTIONAL SKILLS A PLUS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Hospitality Management or a related field preferred.
  • Prior hospitality experience working with a timeshare and/or hotel or resort preferred. 

BENEFITS (if eligible)

  • Weekly Pay and Direct Deposit
  • Health Insurance (Medical/Vision/Dental)
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Program
  • Paid Vacation and Holiday Pay
  • 401 (K) Retirement Plan with a Company Match (based on eligibility)
  • Employee Wellness Programs
  • Fitness Center Reimbursement
  • Ongoing Professional Development Opportunities
  • Employee Family & Friends Discounted Stays
  • Various Employee Discounts (Local Businesses and National Retailers)
  • Employee Recognition and Appreciation Events (Annual Employee Picnic & Holiday Party)
  • Company-Supplied Uniforms and Equipment (Applicable Positions)
  • Flexible Work Schedules