Full Review: Lake Merritt

The lake is the largest (3.4 miles around the perimeter) mix of fresh and salt-water lake within an urban area.  It is well known for Lake Merritt and related boating activities. At the Lake Merritt Boathouse, you can rent pedal boats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks and four different kinds of sailboats for experienced sailors only (El Toro, Sunfish, 14 ft Keelboat and Catamaran).  The boathouse address is 568 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, CA 94610.  There are restrooms behind the rental area.  Another option is for you and nineteen friends to take a Pontoon Tour. Deposits for boat rentals range from $10 to $20 and the hourly rental rate is in the range of $8 to $15. They only accept cash and their hours vary depending on whether it is a weekday or weekend and the season of the year. Private lessons are available.  Please call at (510) 238-2196 or email sherbelin@oaklandnet.com.

 

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       Sail Boat Club House                      Sail boat dock

 

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                                           Rental area

 

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         Boat rental dock

   

 

The lake has lots of wildlife and is home to five bird islands.  Generally, the lake is calm and perfect for boating.  The lake is also home to the Lake Merritt Rowing Club (www.rowlakemerritt.org ).

 

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                  Rowers                                      Kayaker

 

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          Five bird islands