Third Coast Paddling – Paw Paw River Kayaks & Paddleboards

Specialties

Beginners and experienced paddlers alike will have fun kayaking or stand-​up paddleboarding the Paw Paw River, a mellow, slow-​moving river located just minutes from downtown St. Joseph. You can explore beautiful wetlands and paddle through Harbor Shores Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.

Our trained staff will give your group an orientation before you hit the water. All equipment, including paddles and lifejackets, is provided at the rental sites.

Reservations for groups of less than 10 are not necessary or accepted — just show up, and you’ll be on the water in no time! We also can handle bigger groups of up to 70 with advance registration — perfect for reunions, parties, or corporate events.

Great way for all ages — kids included — to get active and explore one of Southwest Michigan’s best attractions.

Located just outside downtown St. Joseph, Michigan, and the Benton Harbor Arts District, next to Renaissance Athletic Club, and 90 minutes from Chicago.

History

Established in 2013.

Third Coast Paddling, part of Third Coast Surf Shop, was started as a way for people to experience the incredible beauty and solitude of the Paw Paw and St. Joseph Rivers in Southwestern Michigan. Local residents and visitors alike can escape for an hour or more during our open season of May — September.

Meet the Business Owner

Ryan G.

Business Owner

Third Coast Surf Shop proprietor Ryan Gerard learned to surf on Lake Michigan in 1998. Soon after, he moved to Santa Cruz, California to pursue work as a surfing instructor and surfboard builder in California’s dynamic surf industry.

After returning to the Midwest years later to finish his education and be closer to family and friends (and his beloved lake surfing), the concept of opening a true surf shop sprouted. After his business plan was rejected by multiple banks, his Dad loaned him some money and the Shop was open in May of 2005.

Since then, Third Coast Surf Shop has become much more than a local surf shop, and it’s appeal has spread far beyond the Great Lakes. A passion for surfing, meeting friendly people, and offering services that make people happy have continued to be the Shop’s focus!