#10 Best GPS for Kayaking 2023

Don't get lost while kayaking because it will be very annoying. So, have the best GPS for kayaking from our list below. Read on!

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Just like snowmobiling, kayaking is also a fun and thrilling activity for exploration. You’ll always find another bay, another coastline, or even another island waiting to be discovered. However, when you’re kayaking on a vast water body like a lake or ocean, you might easily lose sight of the landmarks where you first set sail. Therefore, having the best GPS for kayaking will come in handy. With this small device, it allows you to navigate easily, giving you the latest weather updates and satellite maps.

However, most GPS products on the market are usually designed for tracking. Therefore, finding the best GPS for kayaking can be a bit difficult. And to help you choose the best one, we have compiled a list of the best GPS for kayaking below. Keep scrolling down!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Cant find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our Q&A community.

Do I need to buy the best GPS for kayaking?

Well, if you love exploring but hate getting lost, then the kayak GPS is a must-have device. It will allow you to explore different bays, coastlines, or even islands without worrying about getting lost. With kayak GPS, you can easily get back to the point where you first sailed.

What factor should I consider before purchasing the best GPS for kayaking?

  1. Durability: If you’re looking for a GPS to accompany you on a kayaking trip, then you need a device that is both durable and waterproof. With its durable case, you won’t have to worry about accidentally dropping your GPS. And since you will often get splashed by the sea, rivers, or lakes, a waterproof GPS will be very valuable.
  2. Screen Size: This is a subjective factor. If you plan to carry the GPS in the hatch or put it in your pocket, a GPS kayak with a small screen might not be a problem for you. However, with the times, many GPS kayaks come with a design to be mounted in front of your kayak’s cockpit. If you plan to do so, a GPS with a 5-inch screen or more might be your ideal choice.
  3. Mapping: Every GPS on the market has different maps loaded in it. Some only have maps for one or a few countries, and some come with a basic world map for easy use anywhere. But don’t worry. If you purchase a GPS with a map of one country, you can download or purchase maps of other countries and store them on the GPS’s micro SD.

How much should I spend on the best GPS for kayaking?

Generally speaking, a GPS kayak is expensive as they cost more than $100. And based on our list here, the average price of the best GPS for kayaking ranges typically from $100 to $1000. That being said, be wise in choosing the one that suits your needs and your budget.

How long should the best GPS for kayaking last?

Woohoo! You don’t have to doubt the lifespan and functionality of a kayak GPS because they can last more than five years, even ten years! The answer is simple, GPS kayaks are constructed with a design that is rugged, waterproof, and resistant to various weather conditions. Therefore, it can last long enough to continuously help you from getting lost.

*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
fēnix 5 Premium Multisport GPS Smartwatch Garmin
Garmin
fēnix 5 Premium Multisport GPS Smartwatch
#1 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS
#2 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS Garmin
Garmin
Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS
#3 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
410210-1 HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS Humminbird
Humminbird
410210-1 HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS
#4 Amazon Humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.com eBay
2200 GPS Pro Black Bad Elf
Bad Elf
2200 GPS Pro Black
#5 Amazon Bad-elf.com eBay
GPSMAP 78sc Waterproof Marine GPS Garmin
Garmin
GPSMAP 78sc Waterproof Marine GPS
#6 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
Montana 700 Rugged Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
Montana 700 Rugged Handheld GPS
#7 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
GPSMAP 64 Worldwide GPS Garmin
Garmin
GPSMAP 64 Worldwide GPS
#8 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
Cruise 7-7-inch GPS Chartplotter Simrad
Simrad
Cruise 7-7-inch GPS Chartplotter
#9 Amazon Simrad-yachting.com eBay
Oregon 650t 3-Inch Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
Oregon 650t 3-Inch Handheld GPS
#10 Amazon Garmin.com eBay

10 List of Best GPS for Kayaking

  • Garmin fēnix 5 Premium Multisport GPS Smartwatch
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    with this product?
    #1

    Garmin fēnix 5 Premium Multisport GPS Smartwatch

    Best Overall

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Having a GPS that you can wear all day like a watch is no longer a dream. That’s what you’ll get from Garmin fēnix 5 Premium Multisport GPS Smartwatch. This GPS smartwatch has a rugged design with stainless steel bezel, buttons, and a rear case to withstand any conditions when you’re kayaking. Moreover, this fēnix 5 GPS features GLONASS satellite reception and 3 axis compass for excellent performance. It also comes with Elevate wrist heart rate technology, making this GPS more multi-functional. Another great feature is that this GPS has a battery life of 2 weeks!

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Multi-functional device
    Comes with a rugged design
    Features GLONASS satellite reception and 3-axis compass
    Equipped with Elevate wrist heart rate technology
    2 weeks of battery life

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    A full-featured GPS watch with good battery life for everyday use, training sessions, and wilderness navigation.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    The Garmin fenix 5 is not a cheap GPS watch.
    Tom's Guide
  • Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS
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    with this product?
    #2

    Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS

    Best Reasonable-Price

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Looking for a reasonable-price GPS to carry when kayaking? Well, this Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS will fulfill your needs. Not only reasonable, but this GPS also has a rugged design combined with a waterproof IPX7 rating to withstand any harsh environments. On top of that, this kayak GPS is equipped with a preloaded worldwide base map and a 2.2-inch monochrome display. It also uses a GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS satellite system for precise positioning and reliable signal.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Reasonable-price
    Comes with a rugged design and an IPX7 rating
    Equipped with a preloaded worldwide base map and a 2.2-inch monochrome display
    It uses HotFix and GLONASS satellite system

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Small-capacity internal memory

    What other experts liked

    The size, durability, and battery life of the eTrex 10 also make it a great option to use in nasty weather.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    There are no detailed maps included.
    Expert World Travel
  • Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS
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    with this product?
    #3

    Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS

    Best Value

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS is another of the best GPS for kayaking that comes in a watch design. And remember that this GPS is not “smart” like Garmin fēnix 5 GPS, but it still provides accurate positioning when kayaking. Moreover, this kayak GPS features a TracBack designed to retrace your path combined with an easy-to-read LCD for better usage on the sea. It also has a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix for incredible signal reception when you’re kayaking.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Waterproof
    Features a TracBack
    Comes with an easy-to-read LCD
    Equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    There is no TOPO maps capability

    What other experts liked

    An affordable and easy-to-use device that delivers top-class performance with its accuracy.
    Top Notch Outdoor

    What other experts didn't like

    The 401 lacks some of the added features and programs that you can find in other GPS.
    Ready Lifestyle
  • Humminbird 410210-1 HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS
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    with this product?
    #4

    Humminbird 410210-1 HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS

    Best Performance

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Humminbird 410210-1 HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS comes with a 5-inch color WVGA screen combined with a color TFT display. It also features 2D sonar to make it easier for you to locate and find fish more easily and clearly. Besides, this HELIX 5 is equipped with two display mode-Max Mode, and Clear Mode-you can choose the one that meets your needs. It also uses digital CHIRP to provide a more precise location for finding fish. Finally, this GPS is perfect for those seeking a device to carry when kayaking.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Comes with a 5-inch color WVGA screen and a color TFT display
    Features 2D sonar
    Equipped with Max Mode and Clear Mode
    It uses digital CHIRP

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    A quite expensive

    What other experts liked

    The Humminbird Helix 5 Fishfinder is a fantastic product with fluid performance and generous features.
    Trick A Trout

    What other experts didn't like

    The mounting bracket is not very durable.
    Fish Finder Guy
  • Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro Black
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    with this product?
    #5

    Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro Black

    Best Compact

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Interested in having a compact GPS for easy carrying? If so, this Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro Black might be a great choice. While compact means this GPS only has a small screen at 2-inches. However, it also features a backlight for night vision operation, so you can use this GPS day or even night. Aside from that, this 2200 GPS is equipped with a datalogger that will store 100+ hours of data tracking. It also has a rugged design and an IPX4 rating for durability in any environment.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Compact design
    Features backlight
    Equipped with a datalogger
    Comes with a rugged design and an IPX4 rating

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    A bit inaccurate compared to other GPS on the market

    What other experts liked

    Its main appeal is its relatively affordable price point, which makes it stay relevant even in today’s smartphone age.
    Gadget Review

    What other experts didn't like

    The battery life status behaves abnormally sometimes.
    Overland Site
  • Garmin GPSMAP 78sc Waterproof Marine GPS
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    with this product?
    #6

    Garmin GPSMAP 78sc Waterproof Marine GPS

    Best Handheld

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Garmin GPSMAP 78sc Waterproof Marine GPS is a good choice for those seeking an easy-handheld device for kayaking. It also has an unusual design because the buttons are placed at the top of the screen. Besides, this portable GPS is equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver and a 2.6-inch color TFT screen for incredible signal positioning. It also has built-in BlueChart g2 preloaded cards and City Navigator NT map data for a great day of kayaking. In addition, this kayak GPS has a battery life of up to 20 hours.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Easy handling
    Equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver and a 2.6-inch color TFT screen
    Comes with built-in BlueChart g2 preloaded cards and City Navigator NT map data
    20 hours of battery life

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Doesn't include 2 AA batteries

    What other experts liked

    The Garmin 78cs has a bright display screen, up-to-date intuitive operating software, detailed onboard marine cartography, as well as lots of other marine-related information built-in.
    Fish Finders

    What other experts didn't like

    This Garmin GPSMAP 78sc has a problem with an error message.
    Best Trackings Devices
  • Garmin Montana 700 Rugged Handheld GPS
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    with this product?
    #7

    Garmin Montana 700 Rugged Handheld GPS

    Best Durable

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Garmin Montana 700 Rugged Handheld GPS has a rugged design. It is also rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water, and vibration resistance. Moreover, this durable GPS comes with a 5-inch touchscreen screen for easy viewing. It also features multi-GNSS combined with TopoActive maps for accurate positioning and reliable signal. Another great feature is this Montana GPS uses ANT+ technology, WiFi connectivity, and Bluetooth compatibility for convenience of use.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Comes with a rugged design and is rated to MIL-STD 810
    5-inch touchscreen screen
    Features multi-GNSS with TopoActive maps
    It uses ANT+ technology, WiFi connectivity, and Bluetooth

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Heavy and bulky

    What other experts liked

    This highly capable GPS is most suitable as a mounted unit, one that will likely appeal to hunters and others who traverse the backcountry in lightweight vehicles.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    It is a larger GPS to carry.
    Outdoor GPS Shop
  • Garmin GPSMAP 64 Worldwide GPS
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    with this product?
    #8

    Garmin GPSMAP 64 Worldwide GPS

    Best Mid-Range

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Garmin GPSMAP 64 Worldwide GPS comes in an old-phone design, making it easy to use. It also has a sunlight-readable 2.6-inch color display, making it ideal to use below the clear sun. On top of that, this GPS features an ANT+ sensor, so you use this device to view heart rate, Tempe temperature, and speed. It also uses a high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver with a quad helix antenna for impressive signal receiving. However, this GPS is equipped with 250k preloaded caches for geocaching activity.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Comes with a sunlight-readable 2.6-inch color display
    Features an ANT+ sensor
    It uses a high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver
    Equipped with 250k preloaded caches

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Short battery life

    What other experts liked

    The Garmin 64 provides you with all the features needed to navigate any terrain.
    Mountain IQ

    What other experts didn't like

    Kind of difficult to use but need more practice.
  • Simrad Cruise 7-7-inch GPS Chartplotter
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #9

    Simrad Cruise 7-7-inch GPS Chartplotter

    Best Large Screen

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Are you looking for a GPS with large screen size? Then, this Simrad Cruise 7 GPS Chartplotter will fulfill your desires. It has a sunlight-viewable 7-inch screen for easy viewing below clear sunlight. Moreover, this Cruise 7 features a rotary dial and keypad controls, making navigating this device effortlessly. It also comes with intuitive menus for excellent easy usage when kayaking.

    On top of that, this kayak GPS uses pre-loaded with a US coastal map and worldwide base map. Want more? It is also equipped with C-MAP and Navionics for a better navigation experience.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Comes with a sunlight-viewable 7-inch screen
    Features a rotary dial and keypad controls
    It uses intuitive menus
    Equipped with pre-loaded a US coastal map and worldwide base map
    Features C-MAP and Navionics

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    A bit difficult to use

    What other experts liked

    This GPS makes navigation a breeze with its intuitive control menu, rotary dial, and keypad design.
    Sail Magazine

    What other experts didn't like

    One tiny complaint is not as easy as I thought to use.
    Eliu O
  • Garmin Oregon 650t 3-Inch Handheld GPS
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #10

    Garmin Oregon 650t 3-Inch Handheld GPS

    Best Easy to Use

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    At the end of our list of the best GPS for kayaking is Garmin Oregon 650t 3-Inch Handheld GPS. This GPS comes with a sunlight-readable 3-inch touchscreen display, providing easy viewing and multi-touch capability. Moreover, this Oregon 650t features a dual-band GLONASS satellite positioning for incredible performance. Even better, this GPS comes with a multi-sensor, such as a 3-axis compass, accelerometer, and barometer. It also uses ANT+ and Bluetooth technology, which means you can easily share routes and waypoints when kayaking.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    A sunlight-readable 3-inch touchscreen display
    Features a dual-band GLONASS satellite positioning
    Comes with a multi-sensor
    It uses ANT+ and Bluetooth technology

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Short battery life

    What other experts liked

    The Oregon 600t takes the touchscreen outdoor recreation GPS to the next level.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    This thing eats through batteries.
    Allen L

Conclusion: Best GPS for Kayaking

Kayaking is a wonderful outdoor activity aside from hiking, snowmobiling, and other activities. Just like any other outdoor activity, getting lost is something that you might experience often. Therefore, you need the best GPS for kayaking to prevent you from getting lost. Hopefully, our recommendations above will help you in your search. Have a great shopping trip!

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