Watersports Lessons and Rentals

There are dozens of reputable water-sports schools and rental outlets in the Gorge. A walk along our shoreline path is an enjoyable way to explore Hood River’s waterfront and all its offerings.

BEST WESTERN PLUS Hood River Inn guests have more options than ever for enjoying the Inn’s beach (on the east side of our property) and the Columbia River. Hood River Waterplay has expanded its operation, which now includes Windsurfing, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Catamaran Sailing and Jet Ski lessons and rentals.

Windsurfing

Hood River Waterplay offers rental windsurfing gear for sailors who didn’t bring their own. They also have a two-day Basic I windsurfing course provided by Jak and his crew of U.S. Sailing Certified Instructors. The program includes two 3-hour lessons plus 10 hours of free gear use at the beginner beach. Students are provided with all beginner equipment: wetsuit, booties, life vest, helmet and your own personal windsurf board and sail, rigged just for you.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

SUP is the newest water-sport craze in the Gorge, and the Hood River Inn’s beach is a great launch on light or no-wind days. Lessons, rentals and guided SUP tours (for 4 to 30 people) are provided by Hood River Waterplay.

Hobie Cat Sailing

Catamaran lessons and rentals are available on the Hood River Inn’s beach by Hood River Waterplay. A great activity for light to moderate wind days, Hood River Waterplay offers U.S. Sailing Small Boat classes that covers parts of the boat, rigging and sails, points of sailing, sail trim and more…

Jet Skis

Hood River Waterplay offers jet-ski rentals from the Hood River Inn’s beach by the hour, half-day or full day, using Yamaha VX 110 4-stroke Waverunners. Basic safety orientation provided.