8 Ways to Spend the Day on the James River, From relaxing to Thrill-Seeking
BY THE RVAX TEAM
Temperatures in Richmond are rising, and you may be tempted to hit the James River to cool off — but how? We’ve rounded up a few ways to get out on the water, from relaxing to thrill-seeking, complete with safety tips, so you can feel confident as you venture out.
Safety & water levels
First things first: You HAVE to check the water level before making any plans. The Westham Gauge will tell you the water level and current conditions, or you can check out the Instagram page @howsthejamesrva for a daily snapshot detailing the air temperature, water temperature, and river level.
Please note that life jackets are required when the river is at or above 5 feet — and only high-water permit holders can be on the river when the river level is at or above 9 feet!
River City Boating Company
As the saying goes, it’s bad manners to keep an adventure waiting, and we couldn’t agree more! From water tubing, wakeboarding, and skiing, to just splashing around in the river on the bow rider speed boat, River City Boating Company has everything you need for a sunny day on the water with up to five of your adventure-loving friends.
Paddle Club
If time on the water with (up to) 20 of your closest friends is what you’re going for, Paddle Club has just the thing. Info straight from the “sea”-cruisin’ source:
Our paddle boat can host up to 20 guests, and each cruise includes the services of a licensed captain and deckhand. The boat is outfitted with built-in cup holders, coolers, USB charging stations, and large Bluetooth-enabled speakers for playing your preferred tunes. Plus, the boat features a private bathroom, ensuring uninterrupted cruising for the full hour and 45 minutes. We’ve recently upgraded to plush, cushioned bar seats — so now all you have to do is sit back, sip your drink, and soak in the views while the motor does all the work!
Location: 4708 Old Main St (Rocketts Landing)
Kingfish Boat Rentals
Water fun, food, and drinks at The Lilly Pad is the name of the game when you go with Kingfish Boat Rentals. Here are some of their need-to-know deets for your warm-weather enjoyment:
Fuel included: The last thing you want to worry about after a perfect day on the water is fueling up the boat, that's why we include it in our pricing!
No license required: No boaters license is required to rent and pilot our boats. All drivers must sign waiver and must be over the age of 25.
You can do it all!: Get a truly unique perspective of Richmond from the James River. Check out live music at The Lilly Pad before or after your outing!
Water toys: Stand up paddle boards and kayaks are available to rent for your outing. We are your source for all things fun on the river!
Location: 9680 Osborne Tpke (Varina)
Whitewater rafting the lower James with RVA Paddlesports
Not for the faint of heart, this thrill-seeking adventure tackles Class IV rapids! RVA Paddlesports will guide you through the rapids as you take in the breathtaking scenery and the Richmond skyline all in one trip! There is no other city in the country that offers urban Class IV rapids so this is truly a special (and very thrilling) experience.
RVA Paddlesports meet you at their rafting shop at 1511 Brook Rd and get outfitted with helmets, personal flotation devices, and paddles. Once you head out onto the river, your guide will take you through the Class III-IV rapids of Hollywood, Fish Ladders, and Pipeline. Round up your five most adventurous friends and make plans!
Location: Varies
BTW: Don’t forget your member perk when you register.
Flatwater kayaking or SUP with RVA Paddlesports
If a relaxing day on the river is more your speed, then bring your kayak or paddle board to Pump House Park, Deep Bottom Park, Huguenot Flatwater, or Great Shiplock Park with RVA Paddlesports. Take in refreshing views and plenty of birds in their natural habitat. The waters are calm which is great for novices or those just looking to take it easy.
Don’t have a kayak or a canoe? You can rent one from RVA Paddlesports. Not confident enough to go without a guide? RVA Paddlesports offers tours if you’d prefer to paddle with a partner!
Location: Varies
BTW: Don’t forget your member perk when you register.
Swimming or sunbathing
Huguenot Flatwater
The water here is mostly tame yet deeper than the other swimming holes mentioned below. Huguenot Flatwater is a popular place to begin a river float and also for canoing or kayaking. If you enjoy swimming, this is the place to go as there are limited rocks for sitting (or none depending on the river level).
Location: 8600 Southampton Rd
Pony Pasture
Very family-friendly, Pony Pasture offers large boulders to sit, sunbathe, splash, and play. The rocks are close together in some areas creating shallow waters that are great for kids and cooling off without having to fully dip into the river. Get there early to claim a spot as this place fills up, especially on the weekends.
Location: 7310 Riverside Dr
North Bank Park/Texas Beach
This beach requires a small hike on the North Bank Trail to access so we recommend bringing closed-toe shoes for this portion of the trip. Texas Beach is a lush beach with some sand as well as rocks in the middle of the river that are great for sunbathing.
Location: Texas Beach Parking Lot
Tredegar Beach/Tredegar St Takeout
A small, sandy beach adjacent to Brown’s Island complete with a rope swing and stunning views. This is a very urban beach and easily accessible.
Location: 463 Tredegar St
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