So whether you\u2019re looking for a day boat or something more ambitious, your next bargain is waiting for you below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Kayaks for the Money<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBest Sit-On-Top Kayak for the Money: Perception Access 11.5<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Access-11.5-1-705x187.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nI\u2019m a sucker for fast kayaks, and as one of the longest recreational sit-on-top kayaks<\/strong>, the 11.5-foot-long Perception Access provides surprising speed<\/strong> for a boat in its class.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe additional length also gives the paddler plenty of room<\/strong> to operate, though the seat isn\u2019t as comfortable as some competitors. <\/p>\n\n\n\nFor storage, there\u2019s lots of open-air space that can be secured with bungees and even room for a medium-sized dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stable and easy to maneuver<\/strong>, it\u2019s at home on lakes and mellow rivers but I\u2019d discourage you from taking it into windy or inclement conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Integrated fishing rod holders<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Replaceable skid plate increases durability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Molded, high backed seat and leg braces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Pedal Kayak for the Money: BKC-UH-PK11<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/BKC-UH-PK11-705x530.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nJust ten and a half feet long and weighing a svelte 60 pounds, the BKC-UH-PK11 combines portability with cost-efficiency<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDespite the smaller size, there\u2019s still plenty of storage space thanks to a roomy bow hatch<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nStability is what you\u2019d come to expect from a pedal boat and I\u2019d even feel confident trying to stand and cast when conditions are ideal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It doesn\u2019t have many of the additional features that are the mainstay of many fishing kayaks, but there are three rod holders<\/strong> built into the design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Multiple color options<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Paddle included with purchase<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Comes with scupper plugs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Fishing Kayak: Vibe Sea Ghost 130<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Vibe-Sea-Ghost-130\u202fon-both-sides.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nVibe has only been around since 2014, but since their arrival they\u2019ve been focusing solely on fishing kayaks. That one track focus is starting to pay off with the Vibe Sea Ghost 130. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The big brother of the Sea Ghost 110 (another worthwhile model) the Sea Ghost 130 is a little longer at 13-feet than most in its class and this along with the wide beam gives it a nice mix of speed and stability. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s plenty of storage space for weekend getaways including a watertight hatch in the stern<\/strong>. But it\u2019s the boat\u2019s customization that propels it to the top of this list. <\/p>\n\n\n\nGear tracks surround the wide cockpit and comfortable seat<\/strong>, allowing you to customize your Sea Ghost to your exact specifications. Whether you need extra space for tackles or want to install a GoPro or even a fishfinder, it\u2019s possible in the Sea Ghost 130.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Customization options galore<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cHero seat\u201d one of the most comfortable in the game<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Big 550 pound load capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Vibe Sea Ghost 130 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Tandem Kayak for the Money: Ocean Kayak Malibu Tandem<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Ocean-Malibu-Two-XL-705x507.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nA big and spacious vessel<\/strong>, the Malibu tandem is nonetheless a swift and responsive boat that is a lot of fun to paddle<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDespite the size (it\u2019s 12-feet long and 340-inches wide) it\u2019s designed to be paddled both solo and tandem<\/strong> giving you plenty of versatility.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s even room for a smaller third passenger making it a great boat for families. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s enough storage space in the bow and stern for a weekend getaway. I wish some of the storage was watertight, though. I have to stuff my gear into dry bags and secure it beneath the deck bungees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bigger paddlers will appreciate all the legroom and the adjustable seats<\/strong> are very comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Skid plate for added durability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Versatile boat with room for 1,2, or 3 passengers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 425-pound load capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our detailed Malibu Tandem kayak review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Inflatable Kayak for the Money: Sea Eagle 370<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/SeaEagleSE370K_PI-4-380x138-1.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThere aren\u2019t many inflatables that are as versatile as the Sea Eagle 370.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Able to be paddled both solo or tandem<\/strong>, the 370 is stable enough for ocean paddling <\/strong>and tracking isn\u2019t all that bad <\/strong>thanks to two tracking skegs.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s also capable of handling up to class III whitewater with a tough fabric exterior that can absorb most bumps and minor collisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Transportation is much easier with a deflated boat <\/strong>and the 370\u2019s set-up and takedown is simple with the inflating process taking less than ten minutes. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s not the storage space for long trips,<\/strong> and while stable and more responsive than most inflatables, I wouldn\u2019t venture too far from shore when on big bodies of water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Can be paddled solo or tandem<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Huge 650 load capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Two paddles, a pump, and a carry bag are included<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Beginner Kayak for the Money: Sun Dolphin Aruba 10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10-.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nNot to be mistaken for its shorter relative the Aruba 8, the Aruba 10 is two feet longer (10-feet) giving you a noticeable boost in speed and tracking capability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLike most Sun Dolphin boats, the Aruba 10 is meant as a recreational kayak <\/strong>so it\u2019s easy to paddle and very maneuverable.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom a performance perspective, I don\u2019t trust it to handle challenging ocean currents or rough rivers<\/strong>, but as a playboat it\u2019s perfectly fine and easy to transport, weighing just 41 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s a watertight stern hatch for more sensitive gear but not much else in the way of storage, limiting more to a day boat role than overnight adventures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Padded seat with adjustable seat back and foot braces<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Not enough storage for multi-day trips<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Light and easy to paddle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Sit-In Kayak for the Money: Advanced Elements Advanced Frame<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/advanced-elements-advanced-frame-1.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAvailable for half the price of most hard-sided kayaks<\/strong>, the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame<\/a> manages not to sacrifice on-water performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAn aluminum frame gives this inflatable fantastic rigidity<\/strong> that can stand up to many of the same conditions that a more expensive hard-sided kayak can.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCapable of more ambitious ocean paddles<\/strong>, the Advanced Frame is one of the best performing inflatables with competitive tracking, speed, and stability. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBeing an inflatable means finding storage space at home and transporting it to and from the water is much easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it does require more work to set-up<\/strong>. With multiple tubes to inflate it can have a steep learning curve for some. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- The aluminum frame gives it impressive stability in all conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Set-up requires patience and a steep learning curve<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tracks well when using the included tracking fins and skeg. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Advanced Elements Advanced Frame review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to Get the Best Kayak for Your Money<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhere do you See Yourself Paddling?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Not all kayaks are designed to handle choppy waves or strong tides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many \u201crecreational\u201d kayaks <\/strong>for example are maneuverable and easy to paddle when conditions are placid<\/strong>, but are unresponsive and unstable when the water is rough. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThe same goes for whitewater kayaks that are shorter and tippier<\/strong> to better handle going over rocks and taking sharp corners.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you plan on paddling in calm lakes and mellow rivers, then a recreational or basic inflatable kayak will probably do the job.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nBut if you have designs of doing more than that on the open ocean or whitewater rivers, consider a touring sea kayak or a white water model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sit-In vs. Sit-On-Top<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These are the two primary types of kayaks. With sit-in kayaks<\/strong> you sit on the bottom of the hull with your legs and lower torso protected from the elements <\/strong>by the boat\u2019s combing which can be enclosed with a spray skirt<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSince your center of gravity is lower, sit-in kayaks can be slimmer without the risk of tipping <\/strong>over. This makes them faster and more efficient<\/strong> to paddle than their sit-on-top counterparts. They\u2019re the preferred design for cold weather environments <\/strong>where you want to keep rain or waves off you or if you want to do longer trips where speed is more important.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSit-on-top <\/strong>kayaks have no defined cockpit space. They feel less cramped <\/strong>and give you more room to move around while on the water. Getting in and out of them is also easier<\/strong>. They\u2019re best off in warm weathe<\/strong>r since there\u2019s no way to protect yourself from rain or waves. <\/p>\n\n\n\nMost companies have tried to work around this by putting their seats higher above the water to keep you from getting wet. While this does help, it raises your center of gravity and requires sit-on-top kayaks to be wider in order to maintain stability<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nInflatable vs. Hard-Sided<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The biggest difference you\u2019ll notice when browsing these two material types is the price<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nInflatable kayaks are almost always cheaper<\/strong> than their hard-sided counterparts. They\u2019re easier to transport<\/strong> since they can be stored and moved while deflated and most are simple to set-up. Additionally, they often come with a free paddle, even though this is typically not the best kayak paddle<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut outside of a few exceptions, you\u2019re not going to get the same on-water performance <\/strong>from an inflatable. No matter how well you inflate it, an inflatable will lack the rigidity that allows a hard-sided boat to track and handle oncoming waves. Hard-sided boats also have the advantage of more storage space for longer trips. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nBut the logistical ease of inflatables is a big positive in their corner. And while they have a reputation for being unstable and fragile, most inflatables are just as stable as hard-sided boats. <\/strong>Durability has improved in recent years with tough fabric exteriors and multiple air bladders so that even if one is punctured the paddler is able to reach shore safely. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTandem or Single<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you foresee yourself paddling with a partner most of the time, it may be worth investing in a tandem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most tandems are noticeably heavier <\/strong>than singles, but since there\u2019s another person there to help this can be alleviated. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTandems have additional stability <\/strong>thanks to their wider beams and their longer keels tend to provide more legroom and better cruising speed<\/strong>. Loading a single tandem onto your car also requires less space than a pair of singles. <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile some tandems always require two paddlers, there are a few that can be paddled either solo tandem<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nI\u2019m a sucker for fast kayaks, and as one of the longest recreational sit-on-top kayaks<\/strong>, the 11.5-foot-long Perception Access provides surprising speed<\/strong> for a boat in its class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The additional length also gives the paddler plenty of room<\/strong> to operate, though the seat isn\u2019t as comfortable as some competitors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For storage, there\u2019s lots of open-air space that can be secured with bungees and even room for a medium-sized dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stable and easy to maneuver<\/strong>, it\u2019s at home on lakes and mellow rivers but I\u2019d discourage you from taking it into windy or inclement conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Just ten and a half feet long and weighing a svelte 60 pounds, the BKC-UH-PK11 combines portability with cost-efficiency<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite the smaller size, there\u2019s still plenty of storage space thanks to a roomy bow hatch<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stability is what you\u2019d come to expect from a pedal boat and I\u2019d even feel confident trying to stand and cast when conditions are ideal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It doesn\u2019t have many of the additional features that are the mainstay of many fishing kayaks, but there are three rod holders<\/strong> built into the design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Vibe has only been around since 2014, but since their arrival they\u2019ve been focusing solely on fishing kayaks. That one track focus is starting to pay off with the Vibe Sea Ghost 130. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The big brother of the Sea Ghost 110 (another worthwhile model) the Sea Ghost 130 is a little longer at 13-feet than most in its class and this along with the wide beam gives it a nice mix of speed and stability. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s plenty of storage space for weekend getaways including a watertight hatch in the stern<\/strong>. But it\u2019s the boat\u2019s customization that propels it to the top of this list. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Gear tracks surround the wide cockpit and comfortable seat<\/strong>, allowing you to customize your Sea Ghost to your exact specifications. Whether you need extra space for tackles or want to install a GoPro or even a fishfinder, it\u2019s possible in the Sea Ghost 130.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full Vibe Sea Ghost 130 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n A big and spacious vessel<\/strong>, the Malibu tandem is nonetheless a swift and responsive boat that is a lot of fun to paddle<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite the size (it\u2019s 12-feet long and 340-inches wide) it\u2019s designed to be paddled both solo and tandem<\/strong> giving you plenty of versatility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s even room for a smaller third passenger making it a great boat for families. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s enough storage space in the bow and stern for a weekend getaway. I wish some of the storage was watertight, though. I have to stuff my gear into dry bags and secure it beneath the deck bungees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bigger paddlers will appreciate all the legroom and the adjustable seats<\/strong> are very comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our detailed Malibu Tandem kayak review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n There aren\u2019t many inflatables that are as versatile as the Sea Eagle 370.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Able to be paddled both solo or tandem<\/strong>, the 370 is stable enough for ocean paddling <\/strong>and tracking isn\u2019t all that bad <\/strong>thanks to two tracking skegs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also capable of handling up to class III whitewater with a tough fabric exterior that can absorb most bumps and minor collisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transportation is much easier with a deflated boat <\/strong>and the 370\u2019s set-up and takedown is simple with the inflating process taking less than ten minutes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s not the storage space for long trips,<\/strong> and while stable and more responsive than most inflatables, I wouldn\u2019t venture too far from shore when on big bodies of water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not to be mistaken for its shorter relative the Aruba 8, the Aruba 10 is two feet longer (10-feet) giving you a noticeable boost in speed and tracking capability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like most Sun Dolphin boats, the Aruba 10 is meant as a recreational kayak <\/strong>so it\u2019s easy to paddle and very maneuverable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From a performance perspective, I don\u2019t trust it to handle challenging ocean currents or rough rivers<\/strong>, but as a playboat it\u2019s perfectly fine and easy to transport, weighing just 41 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s a watertight stern hatch for more sensitive gear but not much else in the way of storage, limiting more to a day boat role than overnight adventures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Available for half the price of most hard-sided kayaks<\/strong>, the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame<\/a> manages not to sacrifice on-water performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An aluminum frame gives this inflatable fantastic rigidity<\/strong> that can stand up to many of the same conditions that a more expensive hard-sided kayak can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Capable of more ambitious ocean paddles<\/strong>, the Advanced Frame is one of the best performing inflatables with competitive tracking, speed, and stability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Being an inflatable means finding storage space at home and transporting it to and from the water is much easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it does require more work to set-up<\/strong>. With multiple tubes to inflate it can have a steep learning curve for some. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full Advanced Elements Advanced Frame review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Not all kayaks are designed to handle choppy waves or strong tides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many \u201crecreational\u201d kayaks <\/strong>for example are maneuverable and easy to paddle when conditions are placid<\/strong>, but are unresponsive and unstable when the water is rough. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The same goes for whitewater kayaks that are shorter and tippier<\/strong> to better handle going over rocks and taking sharp corners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you plan on paddling in calm lakes and mellow rivers, then a recreational or basic inflatable kayak will probably do the job.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n But if you have designs of doing more than that on the open ocean or whitewater rivers, consider a touring sea kayak or a white water model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These are the two primary types of kayaks. With sit-in kayaks<\/strong> you sit on the bottom of the hull with your legs and lower torso protected from the elements <\/strong>by the boat\u2019s combing which can be enclosed with a spray skirt<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since your center of gravity is lower, sit-in kayaks can be slimmer without the risk of tipping <\/strong>over. This makes them faster and more efficient<\/strong> to paddle than their sit-on-top counterparts. They\u2019re the preferred design for cold weather environments <\/strong>where you want to keep rain or waves off you or if you want to do longer trips where speed is more important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sit-on-top <\/strong>kayaks have no defined cockpit space. They feel less cramped <\/strong>and give you more room to move around while on the water. Getting in and out of them is also easier<\/strong>. They\u2019re best off in warm weathe<\/strong>r since there\u2019s no way to protect yourself from rain or waves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Most companies have tried to work around this by putting their seats higher above the water to keep you from getting wet. While this does help, it raises your center of gravity and requires sit-on-top kayaks to be wider in order to maintain stability<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The biggest difference you\u2019ll notice when browsing these two material types is the price<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Inflatable kayaks are almost always cheaper<\/strong> than their hard-sided counterparts. They\u2019re easier to transport<\/strong> since they can be stored and moved while deflated and most are simple to set-up. Additionally, they often come with a free paddle, even though this is typically not the best kayak paddle<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But outside of a few exceptions, you\u2019re not going to get the same on-water performance <\/strong>from an inflatable. No matter how well you inflate it, an inflatable will lack the rigidity that allows a hard-sided boat to track and handle oncoming waves. Hard-sided boats also have the advantage of more storage space for longer trips. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n But the logistical ease of inflatables is a big positive in their corner. And while they have a reputation for being unstable and fragile, most inflatables are just as stable as hard-sided boats. <\/strong>Durability has improved in recent years with tough fabric exteriors and multiple air bladders so that even if one is punctured the paddler is able to reach shore safely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you foresee yourself paddling with a partner most of the time, it may be worth investing in a tandem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most tandems are noticeably heavier <\/strong>than singles, but since there\u2019s another person there to help this can be alleviated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Tandems have additional stability <\/strong>thanks to their wider beams and their longer keels tend to provide more legroom and better cruising speed<\/strong>. Loading a single tandem onto your car also requires less space than a pair of singles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While some tandems always require two paddlers, there are a few that can be paddled either solo tandem<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Best Pedal Kayak for the Money: BKC-UH-PK11<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Fishing Kayak: Vibe Sea Ghost 130<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Tandem Kayak for the Money: Ocean Kayak Malibu Tandem<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Inflatable Kayak for the Money: Sea Eagle 370<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Beginner Kayak for the Money: Sun Dolphin Aruba 10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Sit-In Kayak for the Money: Advanced Elements Advanced Frame<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
How to Get the Best Kayak for Your Money<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where do you See Yourself Paddling?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sit-In vs. Sit-On-Top<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Inflatable vs. Hard-Sided<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tandem or Single<\/h3>\n\n\n\n