Central Florida is permeated by several hundreds of lakes and streams, making for an exciting and wondrous place for all sorts of on-the-water activities. Getting out on the water, especially on a jet ski, surely beats standing in line at an amusement park. This is a great activity for date nights, birthday parties, family reunions, company retreats, or to celebrate any special occasion. Whether you have your own jet ski or you seek a rental, make sure you’re aware of the precautions and necessities before you go.
For easy locating, here, a map of the best lakes and jet ski rental options in the Orlando area.
Best lakes to jet ski in Orlando
If you already have the jet ski and you just need the lake, these are my top recommendations, as a Central Florida local. Check the map above to see which is closest to you. Make sure to check out the Florida boating rules before you embark on your adventure.
- Lake Butler / Butler Chain of Lakes (Bay Hill / Windermere)
- Lake Minneola (Clermont)
- Lake Conway (South Orlando / Conway)
- Lake Ivanhoe (Downtown Orlando)
- Lake Tohopekaliga (St Cloud / Kissimmee)
Top 6 jet ski rentals & tours
If you’re not traveling with your jet ski and need a rental, or if you’re looking for tours or lessons, check out these experiences. Many offer a half hour, hour or two hours which is plenty of time to get your thrill on and enjoy the adventure.
1. Buena Vista Watersports
Lake Bryan in Lake Buena Vista
- $129/hr
- Open Monday to Sunday 10AM to 530PM
Buena Vista Watersports is located inside the beautiful Paradise Cove (also a wedding venue) which is very close to all things Disney. From here you’ll embark from a private beach, on the private, 400-acre spring-fed Lake Bryan. The privacy, cleanliness and serenity of this lake makes it an excellent place for beginners and first-timers. The helpful and attentive staff will offer a complimentary lesson for first-timers, and drivers but be 18+ to carry any passengers. Families and groups can take turns riding, and in the meantime enjoy lounging on the beautiful private beach – while eating ice cream or building sandcastles. This venue also offers charter boats, pontoons, paddleboards and kayaks for rental, and options of tubing or skiing behind a boat. Book ahead of time because they can fill up, and coming prepared will make the experience seamless.
Check out the Grand Beach Resort, situated on the same Lake Bryan, as well as other Lake Buena Vista area accommodations.
2. Move Aside Jet Ski and Boat Rentals
Clermont Chain of Lakes, Lake Minneola
- $149/hr
- Monday to Sunday – 8AM to 6PM
Move Aside is a small family owned business operating mainly on the Clermont Chain of Lakes, some 40 minutes west of Orlando. The chain of lakes is stunning, plus there are canals where you can slow down and enjoy the view. Approachable and accommodating owners and staff give the whole experience a welcoming family feel. They are beginner-friendly, giving you all the instruction and knowledge necessary before you take off. Jet skis are equipped with bluetooth capabilities so you can jam while you cruise. Since it’s a small family owned operation, you might even be able to negotiate good group rates, better than elsewhere. Lake Minneola is a beautiful place to relax on the lake and enjoy a bite and a swim before or after your ride.
3. Island Vibez Watersports | Orlando Jet Ski and Boat Rentals
Lake Minneola (Clermont) & Lake Tohopekaliga (St. Cloud)
- $119/hr
- Open Monday to Sunday – 8AM to 7PM
Island Vibez is owned and operated by a warm and welcoming husband and wife duo, operating mainly out of Lake Minneola (Cermont) and Lake Tohopekaliga (St. Cloud). They offer high-end and brand new jet skis for the most smooth and safe ride. You’ll get a thorough safety training before getting out on the water, and while the staff is very cautious, they also give you the freedom to explore the lake. Katie and Randy will even make your experience extra memorable by taking your photos while you enjoy the adventure.
4. Luxe Watersports l Orlando Jet Ski and Boat Rentals
Davenport at Old Lake Davenport
- $110/hr
- Monday to Sunday – 10AM to 7PM
Luxe Watersports offers high quality watercraft and a friendly and accommodating staff. SeaDoo jet skis are new and fast, with a great sound system for jamming while you cruise. Groups of 8 jet skis are available upon request – making this a great option for birthdays, family or team outings, and other events or celebrations. Staff is patient and instructive with first timers, and they’ll even take photos and videos to capture the moments and make your experience that much more unforgettable. Also offered are luxury pontoon boat rentals.
5. Recreational Watersports Jet Ski and Boat Rentals
East Lake Tohopekaliga, St Cloud
- $109/hr
- Open Monday to Sunday – 8AM to 6PM
Recreational Watersports operates on the clear blue waters of Lake Toho in St. Cloud. The kind and patient staff make this a great option for beginners as well as families and groups. You’ll get a safety and driving tutorial first thing, and then you’re free to roam the lake (although you must remain inside the buoys). They also offer fishing boat rentals since Lake Toho is known for Bass fishing. You’ll meet at the boat ramp at Lakefront Park, where you’ll find all the amenities including free parking and restrooms. There’s a seafood restaurant, a playground, pavilions and beach to enjoy before or after your ride.
6. Race and Dream Jet Ski Rental
Davenport / Old Lake Davenport
- $119/hr
- Open
Race and Dream prides themselves on offering the newest SeaDoo models on the market — the most high tech and easiest to manage, which is great for beginners and safe for kids. They offer great customer service on a beautiful lake. Fast and safe jet skis are equipped with bluetooth capabilities for jamming while you cruise. Instructors will also take photos and videos while you enjoy the ride. Experiences are available for groups of up to 14 people on 7 jet skis, and a Go-Pro rental is an option for an additional $40.
Things to know before you go
If you’re going out on a tour or booking a rental, be prepared with the following.
- A valid government issued id or other form of ID will be required
- You must be 18 to rent, and some companies allow 14- or 16-year-olds to drive if accompanied by parent or guardian
- You’ll need a temporary boating license if born after January 1, 1988
- Wear swimsuit or otherwise comfortable clothes to get wet in
- Generally safety gear is provided – life jacket and whistle
- Usually a deposit or credit card is required before booking, in case of damages
- Be prepared to sign waivers online or in person
If going on your own, get familiar with the Florida boating laws. In summary:
- You must wear an approved non-inflatable wearable personal flotation device
- Must be 14+ to operate
- Avoid reckless operation as defined here
- Do not operate half hour after sunset nor half hour before sunrise
- Those born on or after January 1, 1988 are required to have at least a temporary boating license
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