Pelican Point Marina

Pelican Point Marina has carved out a reputation as the most family-friendly marina on Smith Mountain Lake. While other marinas cater primarily to powerboaters and slip holders, Pelican Point focuses on getting families onto the water with an easy, approachable rental program and a welcoming atmosphere that puts first-timers at ease.

What Makes Pelican Point Special

The marina specializes in pontoon boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, which are the three most accessible ways for families with children to enjoy the lake. Pontoon rentals are particularly popular because they offer stable, spacious platforms that accommodate multiple generations without requiring advanced boating experience. Grandparents, parents, and kids can all relax on a pontoon without anyone worrying about tipping over or holding on for dear life.

Kayak and paddleboard rentals open up the quieter side of the lake. These human-powered options let you explore coves, follow the shoreline, and enjoy the natural beauty of SML at a pace that actually lets you see it. For families with older kids and teenagers, paddleboarding in particular has become hugely popular.

What to Expect When You Visit

Pelican Point is set up for a great day on the water. The rental process is straightforward: choose your watercraft, go through a brief safety orientation, and head out. The staff is patient with beginners and thorough with their safety briefings, which matters when you have kids on board.

Pontoon rentals typically include all required safety gear, a full tank of fuel, and a lake map highlighting popular destinations and no-wake zones. Half-day and full-day options are available, with full-day rentals offering the best value for families who want to take their time.

The marina grounds are family-friendly with clean restrooms and a small retail area where you can pick up sunscreen, water, and snacks before heading out.

Insider Tips

Book your pontoon rental at least a week in advance during June, July, and August. Weekend availability disappears fast, and even weekday rentals can fill up during the peak weeks around the Fourth of July. If your dates are flexible, Tuesday through Thursday offers the best combination of availability and calm water.

For kayaking, head out early in the morning when the lake is glass-smooth and the wildlife is most active. You will see herons, osprey, and occasionally bald eagles along the quieter stretches of shoreline. Bring binoculars if you have them.

Ask the staff for their recommended routes. They know the best coves for swimming stops, the spots where you can beach a kayak and explore, and the areas to avoid during busy afternoons.

Nearby Communities

Pelican Point Marina is located near Mariners Landing, which offers its own dining and resort-style amenities. Families staying in or near Bernard's Landing also find Pelican Point a convenient launch point for water activities.

Practical Information

Parking is available on-site and is generally adequate for the marina's capacity. The facility operates seasonally, with hours expanding during peak summer months. All renters must sign a liability waiver, and a valid ID and credit card are required at check-in. Call ahead for current pricing, availability, and any age or experience requirements for specific watercraft.