The best ocean kayaks balance stability, drainage, and seaworthiness.
You want a kayak that can punch through surf, track on open water, and get you back to shore with a smile. That takes the right hull, the right seating, and true saltwater-ready design. I’ve paddled beach breaks, calm bays, and windy coastlines, and I know the little details that matter. In this guide, I compare popular models and highlight what sets each apart. If you’re searching for the Best Kayak For Ocean Use, you will find clear picks for families, solo cruisers, pedal fans, and anglers. Let’s get you on the water with confidence.
Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu…
Stackable design QuickStash Dry Hatch providing convenient waterproof storage Open bow and stern tankwell with bungees for quick storage Large cup holders placed near each seat, keeping your drink within…
Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu…
Comfortable, adjustable, and breathable Element Beach seating with a convenient storage pocket and fully adjustable slide-track. The mesh cover provides ventilation and drainage to keep you dry Redesigned large stern…
Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu…
Stackable design Additional options available with the insert location for the Comfort Plus Seat QuickStash Dry Hatch providing convenient waterproof storage Improved scupper locations and design allow water to quickly…
Old Town Malibu Two 12′ Tandem Sit-on-Top
The Old Town Malibu Two is a classic beach tandem that still shines in 2026. It is simple, stable, and forgiving in surf and chop. The sit-on-top deck drains fast through scupper holes, which boosts safety on swells. The “Horizon” color is bright and easy to spot, which is a plus in busy coastal areas.
I like the flexible seating. You can set it up for two adults, an adult and child, or even paddle it solo from the center. The hull has enough rocker up front to lift over waves but still tracks for relaxed cruising. It is made from rugged polyethylene, so it handles bumps with ease. For many beach days, this is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use if you want a friendly tandem.
Pros:
- Very stable for surf launches and landings
- Quick-draining sit-on-top deck for safety
- Flexible seating for tandem, kid, dog, or solo use
- Durable polyethylene shell tolerates rough handling
- Good tracking for a short ocean tandem
- Comfortable molded seats with easy adjustments
- High-visibility color helps with on-water safety
Cons:
- Not the fastest kayak on open water
- Bulky to car-top for one person
- Limited dry storage compared to sit-inside boats
My Recommendation
Choose the Malibu Two if you want a proven, family-friendly kayak for the beach. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for first-time tandems, kids, and casual coastal cruising. It shines in small surf, mellow coves, and sunny days with friends. I recommend this for renters, beach houses, and anyone who values stability over speed.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family surf days | Stable hull and fast drainage build confidence |
| Tandem beginners | Forgiving ride with simple seating options |
| Casual coastal cruising | Tracks well enough without feeling tippy |
Old Town Malibu 12′ Pedal Sit-on-Top
If you want hands-free control on the ocean, the Malibu Pedal is a smart pick. The pedal drive lets you power through current and wind without putting the paddle down. You can reverse instantly by pedaling backward, which helps in tight spots near jetties or docks. The sit-on-top deck stays dry and drains fast, which I value in side chop.
The seat is supportive and easy to adjust on the fly. The rudder steering feels natural, and the hull is very stable for its length. You can fish, take photos, or just cruise while your legs do the work. For many solo paddlers, this is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use when you want speed and control without a learning curve.
Pros:
- Hands-free pedal drive with instant reverse
- Stable platform for fishing, photography, or touring
- Supportive seat with quick adjustments
- Rudder steering improves tracking in wind
- Saltwater-ready components with easy rinse care
- Good deck layout with scuppers and storage
- Efficient cruising without paddle fatigue
Cons:
- Heavier than a basic paddle-only sit-on-top
- Costs more due to the pedal system
- Surf landings require caution with the drive (stow before beaching)
My Recommendation
Pick the Malibu Pedal if you want to cover more water and keep your hands free. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for solo riders who chase breeze lines, bait schools, or scenic shoreline. It blends stability with efficient speed and simple care after saltwater days. It is an easy upgrade if you love the feel of cycling and cruising.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Hands-free coastal touring | Pedal power with instant reverse and rudder control |
| Light ocean fishing | Stable deck lets you cast and manage gear |
| Windy afternoons | Leg drive holds your line against breeze and current |
Old Town Malibu Two XL 13′ Tandem (Lava)
Need more room than the classic Malibu Two offers? The Two XL stretches the hull for tracking, deck space, and capacity. That extra foot helps when you bring a child or a cooler. The “Lava” color pops against blue water, which I like for safety and style.
On the ocean, the XL feels planted and smooth. It rises over wave faces with ease and stays calm in quartering chop. The deck gives you flexible foot placement and easy movement at the beach. If you often paddle as a team and want the Best Kayak For Ocean Use with extra space, this is a clear upgrade.
Pros:
- Longer hull tracks straighter in open water
- More capacity for kids, dogs, or gear
- Stable and predictable in small surf
- Fast-draining deck with multiple scuppers
- Comfortable seats with multiple foot positions
- Bright, high-visibility color in “Lava”
Cons:
- Bulkier to transport and store than the 12-foot model
- Still not a speed-focused touring hull
- Open deck means less dry storage
My Recommendation
Get the Two XL if you plan longer beach days with family or gear. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for larger tandems who value comfort and tracking. The length helps you glide, and the deck gives you breathing room. It is ideal for picnics on sandbars or slow coastal loops.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family tandems with gear | Extra capacity and deck space |
| Calm bays and coves | Smoother glide and tracking vs. shorter tandems |
| Visibility-minded paddlers | “Lava” color stands out in ocean traffic |
Old Town Malibu Two XL 13′ Tandem (Horizon)
This is the same Two XL platform, dressed in the “Horizon” colorway. It keeps the long, stable hull that I love for ocean chop. The extra deck room makes entry and exit friendly in shallow surf. The bright color is easy to see from shore and from boats.
If your paddling days include kids, snacks, and sunny beach breaks, this is a safe bet. It forgives awkward paddling strokes and side wake. The hull drains fast and feels steady when you turn broadside at a landing. For many families, this is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use when comfort and visibility matter.
Pros:
- 13-foot length improves straight-line tracking
- Generous deck space for coolers and extras
- Stable in swell and boat wake
- Scupper drainage keeps the deck clear
- High-contrast “Horizon” color enhances visibility
- Seats adjust quickly for various rider sizes
Cons:
- Large footprint for apartment storage
- Not designed for fast offshore touring
- Open deck means you need dry bags for valuables
My Recommendation
Choose the Horizon Two XL for family-friendly ocean fun with a focus on safety. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use if you value visibility and a calm ride. It gives you room to move and easy confidence in small surf. It also works well for rental fleets and beach houses.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Families and first-timers | Stable hull and simple, open deck layout |
| Busy coastal areas | Bright color stands out for safety |
| Beach rentals | Durable build and easy fit for many paddlers |
BKC 12.5′ Tandem Fishing Kayak (Blue)
This Brooklyn Kayak Company tandem is built for anglers but also suits coastal exploring. It seats two adults and has room for a child or dog. The hull is wide and stable for standing maneuvers in calm water. It comes with paddles, padded seats, and built-in rod holders, which saves on extras.
I like the motor-ready design and the high capacity for ocean fishing loads. The deck handles coolers, crates, and safety gear without fuss. It is not a race boat, but it gets out past the break and back with confidence. If you fish or want a rugged tandem, it can be the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for nearshore trips.
Pros:
- High capacity for two paddlers and gear
- Six rod holders make fishing simple
- Motor-ready for future upgrades
- Stable platform for calm-water stand-up moves
- Includes paddles and seats out of the box
- Rugged hull with easy-to-grab handles
Cons:
- Heavy to lift and transport
- Speed is moderate at best
- Seat comfort is good but not premium
My Recommendation
Pick the BKC tandem if fishing is your main goal. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for nearshore anglers who want capacity, stability, and simple rigging. It works for family cruising too, but its layout shines for rods and tackle. Add a small motor later if you want more range.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Nearshore fishing | Rod holders and motor-ready design |
| Heavy loads | High capacity suits gear, coolers, and safety kits |
| Budget-minded anglers | Includes seats and paddles to start today |
Old Town Malibu 9.5 Solo Sit-on-Top (Lava)
The Malibu 9.5 is a compact ocean playboat that keeps things light and fun. It is easy to carry, launch, and store. The short hull turns fast, which helps in surf zones and tight coves. The “Lava” finish adds visibility and style on sunny beach days.
Do not expect touring speed. Expect control, agility, and a smile when you link waves. The seat is more comfortable than many entry-level sit-on-tops. If you want a nimble solo, this can be the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for quick sessions and calm mornings.
Pros:
- Light and easy to handle alone
- Stable and playful in small surf
- Fast-draining deck with scuppers
- Comfortable seat for its class
- Great for teens, smaller adults, and casual paddlers
- Bright color enhances on-water safety
Cons:
- Slower on longer coastal runs
- Lower capacity vs. larger sit-on-tops
- More affected by wind drift than longer boats
My Recommendation
Get the 9.5 if you want a simple kayak you can throw on the car and go. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for short paddles, surf play, and casual fitness. It works well for small adults and older kids who want control and fun. Keep your route tight to shore, and enjoy the ride.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Quick beach sessions | Easy carrying and fast launches |
| Surf play | Short hull turns and carves with control |
| Compact storage | Small footprint for apartments and garages |
Perception Rambler Sit-on-Top Kayak
The Perception Rambler is a solid budget-friendly ocean option. It has a tough shell and a simple, open deck that new paddlers love. It is forgiving in small surf and stable when you get turned sideways at the beach. The molded footrests fit a range of sizes.
This is not packed with features, and that is the point. It is durable, easy to rinse, and ready for rental-level use. Bring your own dry bags and cushion if you want more comfort. For entry-level buyers, it can be the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for short coastal trips and summer vacations.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly entry into ocean kayaking
- Durable shell stands up to beach wear
- Stable in small swell and wind chop
- Molded footrests fit many riders
- Simple, fast-draining deck
- Easy to clean and store
Cons:
- Basic seat comfort
- Limited storage and rigging
- Not designed for fast touring
My Recommendation
Choose the Rambler if you want an affordable, tough, and simple ocean kayak. It is the Best Kayak For Ocean Use for renters, beach houses, and new paddlers who want a safe start. It feels secure, drains well, and keeps the focus on fun. Add a seat pad and dry bag to round out your kit.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget buyers | Solid build at a friendly price |
| Beach rentals | Durability and easy cleaning |
| New paddlers | Stable, forgiving ride in small surf |
FAQs Of Best Kayak For Ocean Use
What makes a kayak good for ocean use?
Stability, drainage, and seaworthiness matter most. Look for sit-on-top decks with scuppers, a hull with some rocker for waves, and saltwater-safe parts.
Is a sit-on-top better than a sit-inside for the ocean?
For most beginners, yes. Sit-on-tops drain fast, are easy to remount, and feel safer in surf and chop.
What length is best for coastal paddling?
Ten to thirteen feet is a sweet spot for stability, tracking, and easy handling near shore.
Can I fish the ocean from these kayaks?
Yes. Choose stable, high-capacity models with rod holders. Always wear a PFD and rig a safety flag.
How do I land through small surf safely?
Point the bow at shore, time your approach, keep your weight low, and paddle to match the wave. Stow pedal drives before beaching.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want simple, safe fun, the Old Town Malibu Two is hard to beat. For hands-free speed and control, the Malibu 12′ Pedal is my pick for the Best Kayak For Ocean Use.
Families who need more room should look at the Malibu Two XL. Anglers will love the BKC 12.5′ tandem. For budget buyers, the Perception Rambler is the smart start to the Best Kayak For Ocean Use journey.
