Boat & Kayak Rentals at Pokonobe Marina, Mammoth Lakes - Mammoth Lakes, CA

Boat & Kayak Rentals at Pokonobe Marina, Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes, CAeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–7 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners to moderate fitness levels; ability to paddle or steer a small boat is helpful but not required for motorboat rentals.

Overview

Pokonobe Marina offers a range of boat rentals on Lake Mary, delivering accessible water adventures amid the striking Sierra Nevada terrain. Friendly staff and versatile craft make it a top pick for paddling, fishing, and cruising.

Details

Pokonobe Marina on Lake Mary is a standout destination for water-based adventure in the Mammoth Lakes region of California. Situated near the eastern Sierra Nevada, this marina offers visitors direct access to one of the area's most scenic alpine lakes, framed by towering pines and rugged granite slopes. Lake Mary’s calm, clear waters invite a range of recreational pursuits, and Pokonobe Marina serves as the local hub for boating, fishing, and paddling experiences that capture the essence of this mountain escape.

At Pokonobe, the rental options cover multiple styles of watercraft, designed to meet varying skill levels and interests. Kayak enthusiasts can choose tandem inflatable kayaks for a light, approachable paddle session; these are easy to inflate right on the dock, making prep quick. For those seeking a bit more leisure with space to lounge, pontoon boats provide a comfortable platform for fishing or leisurely cruising across the lake. Anglers appreciate the knowledgeable staff’s insights on prime fishing spots, sharpening the chances for a successful day on the water.

The marina stands out not only for its equipment but also for its friendly, accommodating staff, who consistently receive praise for helpfulness and responsiveness. Whether you’re recovering a lost kayak fin or dropping in for ice cream mid-trip, the team’s customer care adds a personal touch. Pricing remains reasonable, offering full-day motorboat rentals or shorter visits in pedal boats, all set against Mammoth Lakes’ impressive mountain backdrop.

Surrounded by high desert landscapes and forested ridges, this area is known for its peaceful outdoor ambiance and access to hiking and biking trails off the shore. Lake Mary holds a special place for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to combine water-based adventure with the broader Mammoth Lakes experience—where alpine vistas meet crisp, fresh air and clear waters. Pokonobe Marina delivers a practical, well-stocked base for tapping into those opportunities, living up to its reputation among locals and visitors alike.

Adventure Tips

Check Rental Duration Options

Rentals range from short hour-long trips to full-day outings—choose what suits your pace and priorities.

Bring Your Own Goggles for Kayaking

If you're kayaking, goggles or water glasses will help with underwater visibility and retrieving lost gear.

Plan for Variable Mountain Weather

Dress in layers; mornings are cool, afternoons can warm quickly with sun exposure on the lake.

Pack Snacks and Drinks

While you can leave the dock, bringing provisions onboard lets you maximize your time on the water.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • A quiet inlet on the lake’s northwest side perfect for serene paddling
  • Nearby hiking trails that loop to panoramic viewpoints above Lake Mary

Wildlife

  • Osprey and bald eagles hunting over the water
  • Black-tailed deer grazing in forest edges near the shore

History

Lake Mary is part of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, a volcanic and glacial landscape shaped over thousands of years with deep ties to native Paiute tribes.

Conservation

Pokonobe Marina supports sustainable lake usage by encouraging catch-and-release fishing and minimizing motorboat emissions to protect the pristine water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning for misty lake reflections
Late afternoon sunlight for warm mountain colors
Golden hour for vibrant skies

Best Viewpoints

  • Dock area with panoramic lake views
  • Shoreline trails overlooking alpine peaks
  • Pontoon boats for unique water-level perspectives

What to Photograph

Mountain reflections on the lake surface
Wildlife like waterfowl or osprey
Watercraft in action with dramatic backgrounds

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Sunglasses

Essential

Protect your eyes from glare and UV radiation off the water’s surface.

summer|null specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Mountain weather changes quickly; layers keep you comfortable from cool mornings to afternoon sun.

spring|fall|summer specific

Water Shoes

Provide grip on slippery docks and comfort when wet.

summer specific

Personal Flotation Device

Essential

Safety first—mandatory for all on-water activities.

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