easy
1–4 hours
Suitable for beginners and casual outdoor enthusiasts with basic paddling skills or no prior experience needed for rentals.
Lake Mary Marina offers a welcoming, well-equipped spot for kayak, paddle, and pontoon boat rentals amid the striking scenery of Mammoth Lakes. Perfect for newcomers and seasoned paddlers alike, it’s a top pick for waterside adventure in the Eastern Sierra.
Located along the tranquil shores of Lake Mary in the Eastern Sierra, Lake Mary Marina offers an inviting gateway to water-based adventure right outside Mammoth Lakes, California. Sitting at approximately 8,300 feet elevation, this small but captivating lake is ideal for paddlers, anglers, and families eager to spend a few hours or a full day on the water. The clarity of the high-altitude lake combined with the dramatic backdrop of Mammoth Mountain and surrounding pine forests provides a fresh setting that’s both accessible and deeply rooted in outdoor recreation.
Lake Mary Marina stands out as a community-centered hub offering a range of rental boats, including kayaks, motorized kayaks, and spacious pontoon boats. Visitors frequently mention the ease of renting here, lauding the friendly service and hands-on help from staff like Don and Gabe who ensure even first-timers feel confident and welcome. Whether you’re bringing a picnic to enjoy on the pontoon or trying your hand at fishing for rainbow and brown trout, the marina’s offerings support a wide range of water experiences.
Beyond the watercraft, this location offers camping and cabin accommodations nearby, inviting guests to extend their adventure and settle into the Sierra in a way few other lakeside spots provide. The area’s stillness makes it a prime spot for wildlife sightings—look for mule deer and various waterfowl trending along the shorelines. The lake’s geology, shaped by glacial activity, highlights smooth granite outcrops and crystal-clear waters, offering views that invite both reflection and exploration.
This local gem has earned high praise for reliability and atmosphere, becoming a memorable stop for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Whether you’re seeking a serene lake day or an active afternoon paddling, Lake Mary Marina at Mammoth Lakes delivers an approachable outdoor experience framed by rugged Sierra beauty and warm hospitality.
Summer weekends can be busy; booking your kayak or pontoon rental ahead ensures availability.
High elevation sun can be intense even on cool days—bring sunscreen, hat, and layered clothing.
Protect your gear and snacks against splashes, especially on the pontoon or motorized kayaks.
Staff will explain safety rules and boat operation. Pay close attention to ensure a smooth experience.
The lake and marina have long served as a summer retreat for locals and visitors, with roots tied to early 20th-century Sierra tourism.
Management encourages catch-and-release fishing and emphasizes minimizing impact on shoreline vegetation to protect native species.
Life jackets are required and provided but having your own ensures comfort and safety on the water.
summer specific
Protect your skin from high-elevation UV rays during extended time on or near the water.
summer specific
Keeps electronics, keys, and snacks dry while boating or kayaking.
summer specific
Light layers adapt to temperature swings common around the lake at higher elevation.
spring|fall specific