About Third Coast Paddling — Wade's Bayou
Third Coast Paddling runs the kayak and paddleboard livery at Wade's Bayou Memorial Park in downtown Douglas, one of the most protected and beginner-friendly launch points in the Saugatuck-Douglas area. Single and tandem kayaks and stand-up paddleboards go out with all required gear, and every trip starts and ends at the same dock — no shuttles or drop-offs to coordinate.
The bayou itself is calm, sheltered water where herons, turtles, and swans are regular company, and paddlers who want more range can slip out onto the Kalamazoo River to explore toward Saugatuck harbor. The flat water and short walk from parking make this the easiest paddle in the area for families with kids and first-time paddleboarders.
The livery operates daily through the summer season with last boats going out in the early evening, then weekends into September. Third Coast Paddling runs liveries at several West Michigan beach towns along the Lake Michigan shore, and the Douglas location follows the same simple formula: show up, get outfitted, and be on the water in minutes. Walk-ups are welcome, and rates are posted by the hour.
