Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS Review 2025: Budget Kayak Reality Check
I spent weeks researching the Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS after countless requests from budget-conscious beginners asking if this $168 kayak could really get them on the water safely.
Here's the reality: the Camino 8 SS represents the absolute entry point into kayaking, with all the compromises that entails. After analyzing hundreds of user experiences and comparing it against alternatives, I can tell you exactly who should consider this kayak and who should look elsewhere.
This review covers everything from the notorious tracking problems to the surprising stability that keeps beginners coming back. You'll learn what modifications actually work, when the kayak becomes available (it's frequently out of stock), and whether saving up for something better makes more sense.
Let's start with what Sun Dolphin actually delivers for under $200.
What is the Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS?
Quick Answer: The Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS is an 8-foot recreational sit-on-top kayak designed for beginners and casual paddlers, featuring a square stern for maximum stability and a large open cockpit for easy entry.
The square stern (SS) design sets this model apart from traditional kayaks by creating a wider, more stable platform that virtually eliminates tipping concerns for nervous beginners.
Sun Dolphin positions this as their most affordable entry into recreational kayaking, targeting apartment dwellers with limited storage and families wanting an inexpensive way to explore calm waters.
Camino 8 SS Specifications and Design
Quick Answer: The Camino 8 SS measures 8 feet long by 31.5 inches wide, weighs 40 pounds, and supports up to 225 pounds using UV-stabilized Fortiflex HDPE construction.
| Specification | Value | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 8 feet (96 inches) | Compact for storage, poor tracking |
| Width (Beam) | 31.5 inches | Very wide for stability |
| Weight | 40 pounds | Light enough for solo carry |
| Weight Capacity | 225 pounds | Limited for larger paddlers |
| Material | Fortiflex HDPE | Budget plastic, UV-stabilized |
| Cockpit Type | Sit-on-top | Easy entry/exit, self-bailing |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | Basic coverage for defects |
The square stern design creates exceptional initial stability by maximizing the waterline beam. This means the kayak feels rock-solid when you're sitting still or moving slowly.
However, that same design absolutely destroys tracking ability. Multiple users report the kayak "couldn't stop turning in circles" even in calm conditions.
The Fortiflex HDPE construction keeps costs down but results in thinner, more flexible plastic than premium kayaks. Users describe it as feeling "soft" and prone to oil-canning (hull flexing) under weight.
Key Features and Real-World Benefits
Quick Answer: The Camino 8 SS offers a large open cockpit, self-bailing scupper holes, portable carrying handles, and basic storage options perfect for short recreational paddles.
Stability That Builds Confidence
The 31.5-inch beam combined with the square stern creates what users consistently call "rock-solid" stability. One reviewer at 220 pounds reported feeling completely safe during 5-hour lake sessions.
This stability comes from the hull's flat bottom and wide platform design. You can shift your weight, reach for gear, or even stand briefly without the tipping anxiety common in narrower kayaks.
Self-Bailing Design (With Issues)
The kayak features multiple scupper holes for self-bailing, which theoretically keeps the cockpit dry. In practice, users report significant water intrusion through these holes.
Most paddlers end up buying aftermarket scupper plugs ($10-15) to control water entry. Without them, expect wet feet even in calm conditions as water splashes up through the drainage holes.
Storage and Accessibility
The rear tank well with bungee cords holds a small cooler or dry bag, though capacity is limited compared to longer kayaks. The included paddle holder keeps your paddle secure when taking photos or fishing.
Front and rear carrying handles make solo transport manageable. At 40 pounds, most adults can car-top or carry it short distances without assistance.
⏰ Time Saver: Skip the included paddle immediately. Users universally report it's too short and flimsy for the kayak's width. Budget $40-80 for a proper 230cm paddle.
Performance Review: The Good, Bad, and Ugly
Quick Answer: The Camino 8 SS excels at stability but suffers from severe tracking problems, making it suitable only for calm, protected waters and short distances.
The Tracking Problem Everyone Mentions
Every single forum discussion about this kayak mentions tracking issues. Users report the kayak "tracks just as poorly as you'd expect from an 8 ft boat" with some unable to maintain a straight line even in perfect conditions.
The short length combined with the wide, flat hull creates a kayak that spins easily but resists forward momentum. Expect to work twice as hard to cover the same distance as a longer kayak.
One experienced paddler noted: "It's like paddling a bathtub - stable but going nowhere fast."
Real Speed and Distance Limitations
Cruising speed tops out around 2-3 mph with sustained effort. That's half the speed of a decent 10-12 foot recreational kayak.
For perspective, covering a mile takes 20-30 minutes of constant paddling versus 12-15 minutes in a better tracking kayak. Plan accordingly for any distance paddling.
Common Modifications That Actually Help
Forum users have developed several modifications to improve the Camino 8 SS experience:
- Better Paddle: A 230-240cm paddle dramatically improves efficiency ($40-80)
- Seat Cushion: Stadium cushion or kayak seat pad for comfort ($20-30)
- Scupper Plugs: Control water entry through drainage holes ($10-15)
- Milk Crate Storage: Secured in rear tank well for gear organization ($10)
These modifications add $80-135 to your investment but transform the paddling experience according to users who've tried them.
Current Alternatives to Consider
Quick Answer: Since the Camino 8 SS is frequently unavailable, consider the Sun Dolphin Journey 10, Lifetime Hydros 8.5, or Pelican Sentinel 100X as better-performing alternatives.
Sun Dolphin Journey 10 - The Natural Upgrade
The Journey 10 SS offers 2 extra feet of length that dramatically improves tracking while maintaining Sun Dolphin's stability focus. At $489 on Amazon, it costs more but delivers significantly better performance.
Key improvements include a 250-pound capacity, better seat system, and rod holders for fishing. The extra length translates to noticeably better tracking and speed.
Other Budget-Friendly Options
| Model | Price Range | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Lifetime Hydros 8.5 | $250-300 | Better tracking, similar stability |
| Pelican Sentinel 100X | $350-400 | Premium features, better materials |
| Perception Hi Five 6.5 | $200-250 | Even shorter but better design |
Consider checking local classifieds for used higher-end kayaks. A used $800 kayak at $300 often provides better value than a new budget model.
Should You Buy a Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS?
Quick Answer: Only buy the Camino 8 SS if you need maximum stability for under $200, have severe space constraints, and will paddle exclusively on small, calm waters.
The Camino 8 SS works for apartment dwellers who want occasional lake paddles and can accept significant performance limitations. It gets you on the water affordably but shouldn't be your long-term solution.
Skip this kayak if you plan to paddle distances over a mile, deal with any current or wind, or want to progress beyond beginner skills. The tracking issues become frustrating quickly for anyone seeking actual kayaking performance.
Consider renting a few times ($60/day) to determine if kayaking suits you before buying any budget model. Three rentals cost roughly the same as the Camino 8 SS but let you try better equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS discontinued?
The Camino 8 SS appears frequently out of stock at major retailers and may be discontinued. Sun Dolphin hasn't officially announced discontinuation, but availability is sporadic. Check Walmart.com periodically or consider the Journey 10 as an available alternative.
What's the real weight limit for the Camino 8 SS?
While rated for 225 pounds, users report best performance staying under 200 pounds. At 220 pounds, one user felt safe but noted reduced freeboard. Factor in gear weight too - a 180-pound paddler with 20 pounds of gear approaches the practical limit.
Can you add a trolling motor to the Camino 8 SS?
The square stern design theoretically supports a small trolling motor, but users report poor results. The kayak's light weight and poor tracking make it difficult to control under power. Most who try eventually remove the motor due to handling issues.
How bad is the tracking problem really?
Extremely poor according to every user review. Expect to zigzag constantly and work much harder than necessary. One user couldn't maintain direction in a straight canal with zero wind. It's the biggest complaint across all reviews.
Is the Camino 8 SS good for fishing?
The stability works well for fishing, but poor tracking makes reaching fishing spots frustrating. It lacks rod holders, though you can add them. Better to spend slightly more on the Journey 10 SS which includes fishing features and tracks better.
Final Thoughts
The Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS represents the absolute minimum viable kayak - it floats, it's stable, and it costs less than three kayak rentals.
For the right person (budget-limited, space-constrained, calm-water-only), it serves as an affordable introduction to kayaking. Just understand you're buying training wheels, not a long-term solution.
Most users eventually upgrade within a season or two once the tracking frustration outweighs the budget savings. Factor that into your decision - sometimes spending $400 once beats spending $170 twice.
If you find one available and understand its limitations, the Camino 8 SS can start your kayaking journey. Just have realistic expectations about what $168 buys in the kayak world, and consider saving for a quality paddle to improve the experience.
For those comparing different water sports entirely, check out our paddleboard vs kayak guide to explore other affordable options for getting on the water.