
Brittingham Boats offers top-notch kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on Madison’s Lake Monona, complete with unique community events and expert staff support. Find out what makes this lakeside rental hub a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Brittingham Boats offers top-notch kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on Madison’s Lake Monona, complete with unique community events and expert staff support. Find out what makes this lakeside rental hub a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Brittingham Boats stands as Madison’s premier destination for paddling on Lake Monona, offering renters a prime launch point into one of the city’s most vibrant and accessible waterways. Located on the southern shore of Lake Monona near its connection to Wingra Creek, this bustling rental outpost caters to kayakers, canoeists, and stand-up paddleboarders eager to experience the urban lake environment that mixes relaxation with adventure.
The scene here is defined by calm water bordered by swaths of open sky and leafy neighborhoods, with the occasional wildlife sighting — like curious turtles and diving ducks — enhancing the experience. The staff’s dedication to safety and customer care elevates each trip, from ensuring guests have properly fitted boat seats and paddles to maintaining clear waterways by trimming obstructive weeds. This attention to detail means paddlers of all skill levels can comfortably navigate the scenic inlets and open lake.
What truly sets Brittingham Boats apart are its community-driven events, which have become staples of Madison’s outdoor calendar. From the full moon paddle featuring live, floating band performances and cozy canoe campfires to the whimsical Burgers on the Bay event where diners kayak to a floating grill, each gathering amplifies the connection between water recreation and local culture. For visitors seeking more than a simple boat rental, these curated experiences inspire a deeper engagement with the water and city.
Equipment here is high quality and meticulously maintained, offering single and tandem kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Whether you’re paddling solo or with friends and family, Brittingham Boats helps unlock Lake Monona’s potential as a refreshing escape within an urban setting — a place where the pace slows, the water calms, and every paddle stroke invites a new perspective on Madison’s lakeside charm.
Popular times fill up quickly, so get to Brittingham Boats early to choose from the full range of kayaks, canoes, and SUPs.
info PriorityStaff enforces a strict half-hour wait after hearing thunder before launching; patience keeps everyone safe on the water.
essential PriorityThe parking lot isn’t designed for trailers; utilize nearby street parking when bringing your own boat trailer.
warning PriorityTake advantage of provided seat pads and ask staff for comfort accessories to make your outing more enjoyable.
info PriorityRequired safety gear to wear at all times on the water.
Protect feet when launching and walking around docks or shallow shorelines.
Vital for preventing sunburn and glare during daytime paddling.
Stay hydrated while enjoying your time on the lake.
Spring opens up the lakes with fewer crowds and active wildlife, though stay prepared for chilly water and shifting conditions.
Summer is peak season at Brittingham Boats, with lively events and warm water inviting paddlers to engage fully with Lake Monona.
As leaves change color, fall offers a quieter, more reflective paddling experience, showcasing the area’s natural beauty with fewer crowds.
Brittingham Boats typically closes during winter, but the lakeside atmosphere provides a serene off-season setting for winter walks and planning future trips.
No experience is necessary. The staff provide thorough orientation to get you comfortable before you launch.
Yes, Brittingham Boats welcomes your own vessels and offers assistance including seat pads and helpful advice.
While primarily a rental location, Brittingham Boats hosts special community paddling events periodically, rather than formal guided tours.
Staff requires you to wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before launching, ensuring safety on lake trips.
The on-site lot has limited design for trailers; street parking nearby is recommended for vehicles with trailers.
During events, concessions offer snacks and treats, and there’s a lawn area with activities to enjoy before or after paddling.
Lake reflections and skylinePaddlers enjoying the waterLocal wildlife such as ducks and turtles
Madison
easy
1–3 hours
Basic fitness suitable for casual paddling and light watercraft handling.
Lake Monona has long served Madison as both a recreational and ecological resource, with Brittingham Boats operating for decades as a hub for lake access.
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.