For nearly a century, Joe’s Rent-A-Boat has been part of the quintessential Catalina Island experience, offering visitors a simple, fun, and family-friendly way to explore the Island’s scenic coastline. Established in 1927, this family-owned operation has remained a beloved choice for those looking to enjoy the waters of Avalon Bay at their own pace.
As Jay Jay Guion, current co-owner of Joe’s Rent-A-Boat, shares, “My grandfather Joe Guion bought the business in 1927 at its current location. My dad Jay Guion and I—J.J.—are currently running the business. This is our 98th season.”
Located conveniently along the waterfront in Avalon, Joe’s Rent-A-Boat offers a variety of rentals, from motorboats to kayaks and paddleboards, catering to both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing harbor cruise. Visitors can take to the water in a 15-horsepower or 20-horsepower motorboat, ideal for sightseeing, snorkeling, fishing, or simply cruising along the Catalina coast. The 16-foot boats comfortably accommodate up to six passengers, and flexible pricing is available for hourly, half-day, and full-day rentals.
“You must be 21 years old to operate, and you’re guiding yourself,” Guion explains. “The boats do not have live bait tanks, but we offer a 20-gallon bucket that you can put water in and catch live bait, although most customers use frozen squid or anchovies and usually catch plenty of fish.” Customers are welcome to bring their own gear, and as Guion points out, “We also rent [fishing gear] at the office along with selling frozen bait.”
For those new to boating, Guion offers some helpful perspective: “Joe’s Rent-A-Boat is a great way to get out on the water on your own. You should have a little bit of experience—you are on your own. There are no guides. I like to say that if you have little experience, your first boat rental is usually a learning lesson. After that, it becomes something you can plan on—pack a lunch and spend hours out on the water on your own. It is a neat experience.”
Safety and simplicity are central to the operation. Clear boundaries are set for motorboat rentals: “The boundaries for our boats are six miles north of Avalon, Long Point Light, and four miles south to the Rock Quarry,” Guion says. “To navigate that amount of area takes about an hour and a half to two hours depending on weather conditions.”
For those preferring a more active outing, Joe’s offers single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats, perfect for visitors who may not feel comfortable with a powerboat but still want to get out on the water and enjoy Catalina’s coastal beauty.
Kayak, paddleboard, and pedal boat rentals are available to all ages, though anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign for them, and strong swimming ability is required for all non-motorized rentals. Life jackets are provided for all renters.
The business operates seasonally, from April through October, closing during the winter months for maintenance and due to seasonal weather conditions. Rentals are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, maintaining the business’s straightforward, hassle-free approach.
With its rich Island history, friendly service, and easy access to on-the-water fun, Joe’s Rent-A-Boat remains a go-to choice for visitors looking to explore Catalina from a different perspective. As Guion proudly sums it up, “It’s a great way to get out and enjoy the water at your own pace.”
Fishing, snorkeling, sightseeing, or simply cruising the harbor—all are part of the classic Catalina adventure that Joe’s has offered for generations.
For rental prices, hours, and more information, visit Joe’s Rent-A-Boat along the Avalon waterfront or email [email protected].
