Starkey Marina in Eureka Springs offers annual and nightly slips, boat rentals, fuel, and a retail store on Beaver Lake. Before booking, confirm your boating license status, slip size fit, and the marina's insurance and utility requirements.
What does Starkey Marina offer on Beaver Lake?
Starkey Marina is a family-owned, full-service marina in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. It offers annual slips, nightly slips, boat and watercraft rentals, a fuel dock and a retail store.
On its Eureka Springs tourism listing, the marina describes dock services that include fueling with gas, oil and other fluids, pumping waste and filling water tanks, per Visit Eureka Springs. The slips run from 20 ft to 18x60 ft, covered and uncovered, plus jet ski lifts. Rentals include boats, kayaks and paddleboards.
"Simply the nicest marina on Beaver Lake. Excellent management, attentive and friendly dock hands, and a fully stocked store with drinks, beer, pizza, and chicken wings to die for." — Bruce G., Google review
That mix covers a weekend trip, a full season, or a stop for fuel on the way across the lake.
How much do boat slip rentals cost, and what drives the price?
Slip price follows three things: length and width, whether the slip is covered, and the rental term. Annual rentals cost less per month than short stays, and month-to-month space is limited. Taxes are added to marina rates.
Covered slips cost more than uncovered ones of the same length. You pay for shade and protection from sun, hail and falling debris. Larger boats need wider slips, and the jump in price from a 20 ft slip to an 18x60 ft slip is large.
To work out the premium for your boat, use this method:
- Ask the marina for its current rate sheet, since rates change each season.
- Find your boat's length overall, including swim platform and bow pulpit, then pick the slip size that fits.
- Subtract the uncovered annual rate from the covered rate for that size.
- Divide the difference by 12 to get a monthly cost for the roof.
Then compare that figure with what hail or sun damage to canvas, upholstery and gelcoat would cost you. Ask about a jet ski lift separately if you own a personal watercraft.
What are the rules for renting a boat or pontoon?
Renters must be born before 1986 or hold a valid Boating License. That rule comes from the marina's rental terms, and the license is available through the Arkansas boating course.
Here is how to apply it in 2026:
- Born before 1986: you meet the age rule and need no license.
- Born in 1986 or later: you need a valid Boating License before you can operate a rental.
- Several adults aboard: only the operator needs to qualify, so decide who will drive before you arrive.
Take the course and carry your proof before you arrive, not after. Also ask about the rental length, what the price covers, whether fuel is included, and what happens in bad weather. Renters often add tubing, so ask about extra equipment and who may drive the tow boat.
What are the lake conditions on Beaver Lake?
Beaver Lake is a large reservoir with room for cruising, fishing and swimming. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lists about 28,299 surface acres of open water and about 490 miles of natural shoreline, according to its Beaver Lake recreation page.
The Corps also posts swim beach closure status, so check it before a beach day. Reservoir levels move with rain and releases, and that affects shoreline access, shallow coves and where you can anchor. Look at current conditions and any posted notices before you leave, and ask the marina staff about the day's lake state when you pick up a rental.
What should I check before signing a slip agreement?
Read the agreement before you sign, and compare it with what the marina told you in person. A marina storage agreement sets the rights and responsibilities of both sides, along with the rules and restrictions on how you may use the facility, according to Chubb. Chubb notes that a good agreement carries complete information on the vessel and all its owners, and refers to the local codes and ordinances you agree to follow.
| What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Vessel and owner details | Names, hull identification and size must match your boat and slip |
| Insurance requirements | Learn whether the marina requires a policy, and what limits |
| Local codes and rules | Signing means you agree to follow them |
| Utilities | Confirm whether power and water come with the slip and what they cost |
| Lifts and covers | Ask who owns the lift and who maintains it |
| Security and access | Ask about gates, lighting, after-hours entry and who answers a call |
| Term and renewal | Confirm length, rate changes and what happens if you sell the boat |
For a wider look at slip contracts, see what to know before renting a slip at Charles Mill Marina and the Bayshore Landing Marina guide.
What can the store and fuel dock handle?
The store and fuel dock cover routine needs without leaving the water. You can top off fuel on the way out or the way back in, pump out waste, and fill water tanks. The store carries dock lines, tow ropes and small accessories, along with snacks and drinks. Food is available on the dock.
For anything past small parts, such as engine work, you need a separate shop.
Is the marina open year-round?
No. The marina's pages show it closed for the season and reopening in 2027. Fuel, rentals and dock services are not available while it is closed, so plan around the season. If you need winter storage, ask whether your slip stays usable, and line up dry storage or another marina if it does not. Confirm current hours before you drive out.
What are parking and access like?
Parking is available, but one reviewer found it hard to navigate.
"Well maintained Marina with several picnic tables to enjoy pizza from Hunt Brothers Pizza located in the dock. There's also a store, boat rentals and gas for watercraft. Parking is available, but is challenging to navigate." — Amanda H., Google review
If you tow a trailer or load a lot of gear, ask where to park and unload, and arrive early on busy days.
What should I check before hiring a marine mechanic or service shop?
Ask for written proof of credentials, such as manufacturer or industry training for your engine brand. Get a written estimate that separates parts and labor. Ask what the warranty covers, how long it lasts, and who honors it on parts and workmanship. Confirm the shop carries insurance for work on customer boats. Finally, ask how they handle surprises found once things are opened up, and get approval in writing before extra work begins.
Next step
To see how this marina's profile compares, view the Starkey Marina profile and browse marine parts and equipment supply pros on Boatwork. When you are ready to compare quotes from independent pros for a job on your boat, start on Boatwork.
Related pages and posts
- What to know before renting a slip at Charles Mill Marina
- Bayshore Landing Marina in Miami, FL: What to Ask Before Booking
- Starkey Marina profile
- marine parts and equipment supply pros
