“Our traditional boating season is Memorial Day to Labor Day — that’s when we see our highest uptick from boaters,” said Derrick Kekic of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources when asked about activity along the Occoquan River. Get ready for your day on the Occoquan River with essential safety tips, top rental spots, and the best places to dock and unwind afterward.

Safety tips

Before you set sail or paddle out, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind while enjoying the water.

Every passenger is required to have a life jacket onboard, even if they are not wearing one. This also applies to all paddlecrafts like kayaks and paddleboards.
On the Occoquan River and other busy waterways, non-motorized boaters like kayakers and paddleboarders are encouraged to stay closer to shore when safe to avoid larger boats and reduce the risk of collisions.
If you’re heading out on the water, let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return — just in case of an emergency.

Where to rent

Now that you know how to be safe on the water, here’s where you can rent various watercraft if you don’t have your own.

Get kayaks and paddleboards from Occoquan Regional Park. Check out pricing here.
Penguin Paddling is another great option, located at 201 Mill St. in Occoquan. They do not take reservations, but offer plenty of options. See the rates.
Fountain Head Regional Park offers kayak, paddleboard, and jon boat rentals. Learn more.
Looking for some more speed? You can rent different types of motorized boats through groups like Carefree Boat Club and Freedom Boat Club.

The Occoquan Historic District from the Occoquan River. — Check out the Occoquan Historic District after your boat ride. | NOVAtoday

Spots to dock + check out

Hungry after being out on the water? Here are restaurants along the Occoquan River that you can dock at and check out.

Madigan’s Waterfront | With public boat docking, you can hop off after a day on the river and get dishes including seafood, steak, and pasta. Personally, I’m eyeing the salmon bowl.
The Harbour Grille | Right along the waterfront, enjoy dishes like crab cakes, a Reuben sandwich, or seafood carbonara at this popular spot.
Electric Palm Restaurant | Fried Brussels sprouts, truffle fries, buffalo chicken flat bread, and a pulled pork sandwich? Yes, please.