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14 Stunning Places to Go Canoeing and Kayaking in San Francisco

By Natalie Ringel

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated November 17, 2022

It’s no secret that San Francisco is one of the most desirable places to live in the U.S. With ocean views and trendy shops, San Francisco is quickly becoming one of the top places to live in California. While many activities in the Bay Area can be expensive, kayaking in San Francisco is one activity that you can try for little to no cost, and it is a great way to explore the city!

Whether you are looking to kayak under the Golden Gate Bridge or paddle beside sea lions in the ocean, kayaking in San Francisco is an awesome water sport for beginners and experts alike. Below is a complete guide to the most beautiful places to canoe and kayak in San Francisco- between urban settings and scenic coves, San Francisco has something for everybody!

Best Places to Go Canoeing and Kayaking in San Francisco

• Location: Marin
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Sea Trek $30/hour

From views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the rocky coasts of the Pacific Ocean, kayaking in Sausalito has dozens of places to explore! Kayaking under the Golden Gate Bridge offers a unique look at one of San Francisco’s well-known landmarks, and the channel’s calm waters make it a great spot for beginners.

Other spots in Sausalito, like the Sausalito Houseboats Area and Angel Island , are better suited for more advanced kayakers. As you paddlele further from the Sausalito shoreline, the water becomes much more rough and challenging to paddle.

Sausalito’s shoreline brings California’s natural beauty to an urban setting like San Francisco. Because it is so close to downtown, heading out to go kayaking can be the best last-minute decision you ever make!

Horseshoe Cove in Fort Baker is a hidden gem of Sausalito that doubles as a great launch spot for kayakers bringing their own boats. Otherwise, you can rent gear from Sea Trek for $30/hour.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take exit 444 for Rodeo Ave. to Bridgeway. If not driving, there are multiple trains a day leaving from Mission St. & 5th that will take you to Bridgeway (Golden Gate Bridge Transit) .

Monterey Bay

• Location: Monterey/Santa Cruz
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Monterey Bay Kayaks $45/per use

Kayaking in San Francisco is known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Monterey Bay is the epitome of this description; visitors can paddle beside adorable sea lions, otters, loons, and even leopard sharks!

Recognized for its diverse wildlife, Monterey Bay is a sanctuary for tons of animals. Kayaking Monterey Bay and its neighbor wetland Elkhorn Slough (more info below) are the best places to view these animals safely.

Monetary Bay’s sheltered and calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners. Because of all the amazing activities visitors can do at Monterey Bay (inlcuding scuba diving, sailing, surfing, and more) it is a very popular destination for water activities. That being said, if you want to kayak the Bay it is recommended to get an early start!

Launching your own boat from any of Monetery Bay’s beaches is free and easy. However, if you need to rent gear, Monterey Bay Kayaks ($45/use) has kayaks for rent and offers tours of the area so you won’t miss one thing.

How to Get There: If driving, take US-101 S towards San Jose and take exit 336 onto CA-156 W toward Monterey Peninsula to Del Monte Blvd. If not driving, there is a bus to Monterey Bay that leaves from San Francisco Salesforce Plaza .

Tomales Bay

• Rentals Available: Yes- at Blue Waters Kayaking

Only an hour from downtown San Francisco, Tomales Bay is a wonderful place for kayaking and camping year-round. With over 1,000 species of wildlife that call the Bay home, you are sure to see some awesome creatures while paddling around!

Grassy hills surround this natural bay, sheltering it from the elements and making it an excellent spot for beginner paddlers. Besides these scenic views, Tomales Bay provides 40% of the oyster population collected in California- if there is ever a place to eat oysters, it is here!

Tomales Bay is a part of the larger Point Reyes National Seashore (more info below) and also has an elk reserve on shore! As a quieter spot of Point Reyes, Tomales Bay is ideal for a relaxing afternoon paddle, novices, and families.

Visitors love kayaking Tomales Bay because of its accessibility. Kayakers bringing their own boats can launch from four spots: Marin County Parks Miller Boat Launch, Tomales Bay State Park, Tomales Bay Resort, and Lawson’s Landing. Otherwise, you can rent your gear from Blue Waters Kayaking

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take exit 456 toward Lucas Valley Rd. to CA-1 N. Driving is the best way to get to Tomales Bay. If you need to rent a car, Avis has got you covered.

• Location: Alameda County
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Stacked Adventures’ Tours

Fishing and canoe/kayaking is an epic duo, but how about crabbing and kayaking? Alameda is known to be the premier spot for catching crabs while kayaking- an outdoor activity I didn’t even know was possible!

Besides Alameda’s renowned crabbing, visitors can also explore tiny islands with rich wildlife and history out in the ocean, or enjoy an easier paddle along waterfront restaurants. Families looking to kayak together should try out the Oakland Estuary ; its calm waters are perfect for easy navigation and exploration. Whatever water adventure you are looking for, kayaking in San Francisco’s Alameda County has it all!

Stacked Adventures’ Tours has kayak rentals and also offers epic tours covering the different areas of Alameda (including a crabbing/kayaking tour)! If looking to forge your own path, launching your own boat off of the shores of Alameda is no problem.

How to Get There: If driving, start on I-880 S and take exit 42 toward Alameda then CA-61 S to Webster St. If not driving, the San Francisco Bay Ferry will take you to Alameda.

McCovey Cove (China Basin)

• Location: Oracle Park
• Rentals Available: Yes- at City Kayak

No matter the time of year, McCovey Cove in San Francisco Bay is flooded with kayakers trying to catch a Giants game or listening to concerts performing at AT&T Park.

Kayaking into this inlet may not provide San Francisco’s most scenic views, but is definitely an experience anyone traveling through the Bay Area should try. All you need is your radio to hear concerts and games, and some may even return home with “splash hits”- home run balls that reach McCovey Cove!

This area is easy to paddle for all, and is such a unique way for sports fans to experience San Francisco’s games. Kayaking around San Francisco’s McCovey Cove (officially named China Basin) is a high-energy adventure that will not disappoint!

City Kayak has walk-up kayak rentals if you want to explore McCovey Cove and the San Francisco Bay as a whole, or they offer an exclusive McCovey Cove package that leaves right before game time to get prime-time water seats.

How to Get There: If driving, take 10th St. to Townsend St. to Channel St. If not driving, there is a SFMTA bus that departs from Montgomery St. many times per day that will drop you near McCovey Cove.

Elkhorn Slough

• Location: Monterey
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Monterey Bay Kayaks $30/use

Praised as one of the top ten wildlife viewing destinations in the U.S., the Elkhorn Slough ‘s six miles of navigable waterways allows for an up close look at San Francisco’s diverse ecosystems.

Besides the San Francisco Bay , Elkhorn Slough is the largest tidal saltwater marsh in California, making it a premier spot for kayakers looking to spot sea otters, migratory birds, and more. This marsh is easy water for paddling and navigating, making it an ideal spot for novices, kids, and families.

Early Spring and Summer is the best time to paddle the Elkhorn Slough for people who want to spot baby sea otters! For those who enjoy birdwatching, Fall is a better time to kayak here.

Monterey Bay Kayaks offers rentals for the Elkhorn Slough area, and also has guided tours to help you properly navigate the channels and see the wildlife ($30/use).

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 S toward San Jose, then take CA-1 S toward Watsonville. If not driving, there is an Amtrak train that leaves from Caltrain Station that will take you to Elkhorn Slough.

• Rentals Available: Yes- at Sea Trek Kayak and Stand Up Paddling Center $30/hour

This vibrant and active coastal city is just 15 minutes north of San Francisco, but seems like a world away. Kayaking around Tiburon offers spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz and Angel Island .

Adventuring to Tiburon is best suited for intermediate kayakers and those looking for adventure. The left side of the coast boasts tons of wildlife and more rugged terrain, like the Raccoon Straits , and eventually leads to Angel Island, a California State Park. Full circumnavigation of Tiburon (5+ miles) offers beautiful panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, and is great goal for more seasoned paddlers.

The town of Tiburon itself is full of Civil War-era history and quaint shops and restaurants. Most visitors can fill a full day or two exploring Tiburon’s shores, and note that Tiburon’s Peninsula is especially scenic.

Sea Trek Kayak and Stand Up Paddling Center rents kayaks and offers guided tours of the area for $30/hour. Otherwise, Tiburon has miles of coastline where you are free to launch your own boat. Kayaking in San Francisco, especially in Tiburon, is where urban settings meet the natural wild.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take exit 447 toward Tiburon Blvd. If not driving, the Blue and Gold Fleet or Marin Transit Route 219 will take you to Tiburon.

Half Moon Bay

• Location: San Mateo County
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Half Moon Bay Kayak Co.

Sea kayaking in San Francisco is an epic activity to try, especially at Half Moon Bay . This expansive coastline meets the sandy shores of many beaches along the coast, and is close to tons of iconic San Francisco sites.

Half Moon Bay and Half Moon Bay Beach are apart of a larger string of connected beaches that make up the coast of Northern California. The ocean can have some rough waves, so having some paddling experience before coming to Half Moon Bay is recommenced. Pro Tip- if you have a wet suit, now would be the time to use it! Ocean waves can be cold!

Half Moon Bay Kayak Co . offers tons of unique sea kayaking trips including expeditions to nearby Pillar Point Harbor and Fitzgerald Marine Reserve . These spots, and others, offer a unique look at San Francisco’s diverse marine life. Their guided tours are great for beginners or groups, but they also have individual kayaks for rent too.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 S and take exit 34 for CA-35W to Half Moon Bay. If not driving, there is a train that leaves from Caltrain Station that will drop you near Half Moon Bay.

Point Reyes National Seashore

With a mission to protect the marine wildlife that make Point Reyes National Seashore their home, this National Park is especially dedicated to serving nature. That being said, kayaking is only allowed from July 1 through February 28 in order to give necessary space to seal pups in the area.

This limited time is even more reason to make it out to see the amazing views of Point Reyes! Most popular paddling spots include Tomales Bay (where you can most likely spot seals!), Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero . As the largest unspoiled coastal embayment in California, this seashore is perfect for paddlers looking to explore the natural beauty hidden in CA.

The areas previously mentioned are highly recommended for all levels of paddlers. Ocean kayaking is also possible, but it is better to stay closer to the coast which is sheltered from harsh tides and winds. There are six different launch sites at the park, so there is no problem bringing your own boats into the water.

Whether your looking for a nice Sunday paddle or an overnight adventure, Point Reyes offers it all! Imagine going to work on Monday and saying a seal swam next to your kayak- what an amazing experience to wow all of your co-workers! Rentals available at Blue Waters Kayaking .

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take exit 450B toward San Anselmo, then CA-1 to Bear Valley Rd. If not driving, there is a bus from Mission St. & 5th that will drop you .3 miles from the shore (Golden Gate Bridge Transit). Or, you can rent a car from Avis .

Lake Chabot

• Location: Oakland/Alameda
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Lake Chabot Marina $28/hour

Opened for recreational use in the 60s, Lake Chabot is now one of the most treasured pieces of historical land in San Francisco. Stocked with catfish, bass, and other types of fish, Lake Chabot is a premier fishing spot.

This 315-acre lake, originally a water source for East Bay, is a great place for paddlers of all abilities, especially those interested in history. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks on the 280-acre Fairmont Ridge and take Lake Chabot history tours, or spend time exercising in an interactive garden.

But, of course, the main gem of this park is the lake itself. Coming to Lake Chabot is sure to be a relaxing getaway from the city; sparkling blue waters and tree-lined coasts make a beautiful backdrop for your water adventures.

Rentals are available at the Lake Chabot Marina for $28/hour. Launching your own craft is allowed, but there is a $2 fee and a $5/vehicle fee.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 S and take exit 32 toward Fairmont Dr. to Lake Chabot Rd. If not driving, there is a bus that leaves from Montgomery St. that will drop you a mile from the lake (Bay Area Rapid Transit).

Shoreline Lake

• Location: Mountain View
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Shoreline Lake Marina

Originally over 600 acres of junkyards and wastelands, building Shoreline Lake Regional Park transformed this space by taking advantage of the area’s potential beauty. Now, it is one of the most visited parks for kayaking in San Francisco.

Shoreline Lake is a 50 mile-long saltwater lake and circulates water to and from the San Francisco Bay. Shoreline Lake’s vast waters are perfect for beginners and experts looking to explore San Francisco. Mornings are best for beginners as later in the day the wind picks up, making it an ideal place to learn how to sail too. Bonus- because of its location, the water here is considerable warmer than the Bay!

If journeying to Shoreline Lake, make sure to check out the Shoreline Amphitheater , Sillicon Valley’s premier concert venue. Paddling during the day and going to a concert at night seems like a pretty awesome trip to me!

Renting canoes, kayaks and more is available at the Shoreline Lake Marina. If traveling with a large group, consider going on a non-profit paddle day, where your flat fee goes towards charity.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 S and take exit 399 toward Shoreline Blvd. If not driving, there is a train that departs from Caltrain Station and then you can transfer to the Shoreline Amphitheater Shuttle to take you the rest of the way.

Note: The Shoreline Amphiteather Shuttle has shut down for the 2021 season, so be sure to check their website for updates on when/if they’ll resume their services.

Johnson’s Beach

• Location: Guerneville
• Rentals Available: Yes- at the boathouse on the beach

Just 90 minutes north of San Francisco, the quaint town of Guerneville sits in the Russian River Valley as one of the top summer getaway spots. Close to many of Sonoma’s renowned wineries and small town shops, taking a trip to Johnson’s Beach is well worth the journey.

Redwood forests make Johnson’s Beach feel like a secluded vacation spot with activities for the whole family. There are marked off swimming spots on the beach for younger kids, and intermediate kayakers can enjoy the pull of the Russian River’s current downstream.

Johnson’s Beach has an all-inclusive resort type of vibe- if looking for a truly remote place to paddle Johnson’s Beach is probably not you spot. However, because of the family-friendly accommodations, Johnson’s Beach is a prime spot on the Russian River for families and groups to enjoy.

Canoes, kayaks and other water toys can be rented at the boathouse on the beach . There is no admission fee to the beach so you can launch your own boats, but parking costs $7.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take exit 494 toward Guerneville, then to First St. If not driving, there is a bus from Mission St. & 5th that will take you to Johnson’s Beach (Golden Gate Bridge Transit) .

Spring Lake Regional Park

• Location: Santa Rosa
• Rentals Available:Yes- at the Violetti Road entrance for $12/hour

Located in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country, Spring Lake Regional Park is an amazing place to kayak in San Francisco for intermediate paddlers. Because the lake is shared with motorized boats, it is best to stick near the shoreline.

Boasting 72 acres of beautiful oak woodlands with campgrounds, hiking trials, and lakes, Spring Lake Regional Park is full of opportunities to get in touch with nature. Visitors and locals alike love spending the day on Spring Lake because of the stunning vineyard views (which are close enough to be toured in the same day).

Renting kayaks is available near the swimming lagoon at the Violetti Road entrance for $12/hour. If planning to launch your own boat, use the boat ramp at the Newanga Avenue entrance.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take exit 488B toward Sonoma, then Newanga Ave. If not driving, transit from Mission St. & 5th and Montgomery St. both will drop you at Summerfield Rd., 1 mile from the park. Or, you can rent a car from Avis.

Lake Sonoma

• Location: Sonoma County
• Rentals Available: Yes- at Lake Sonoma Recreational Area Marina $30/hour

With over 50 miles of coastline and surrounded by beautiful vineyards, kayaking in San Francisco doesn’t get much better than paddling around Lake Sonoma .

Lake Sonoma’s rich history as one of the first areas restored under the federal preservation act in the 60s makes it the perfect area for water recreation. This man-made lake is surrounded by grassy hillsides, providing a beautiful backdrop for novice paddlers or those looking for a relaxing day trip (campgrounds on site).

Many paddlers enjoy making the trip to Lake Sonoma a full weekend trip. The Thumb campsite is a three mile paddle from the boat launch, a doable distance for paddlers of any ability. From there, the other 11 miles of the lake have many coves to discover and explore.

Canoe, kayak, paddleboat, and jetski rentals can all be purchased at the Lake Sonoma Recreational Area Marina right on the lake ($30/hour). Launching your own boat is also an option.

How to Get There: If driving, start on US-101 and take the Dry Creek Rd. exit toward Stewarts Point-Skaggs Springs Rd. The best way to get to Lake Sonoma is by car. If you need to rent a car, check out Avis.

Additional Resources for Canoeing and Kayaking in San Francisco

What to pack for kayaking in san francisco.

• Swimsuit: Wearing a swimsuit is essential for being out on the water! When canoeing and kayaking, chances are you are going to get wet, so best to be prepared! Click here to compare men’s and women’s styles and prices for our favorite swimsuits.
• Sunglasses: Being out on the water is beautiful, but the water can really reflect light! Make sure to bring a pair of sunglasses and croakies to keep them from falling off.
• Hat: It’s best to keep the sun off of your head to keep you cool. Whether you prefer a nice bucket hat or a vintage baseball cap, keeping cool will ensure an awesome trip.
• Water Bottle: Keeping hydrated is no joke! Paddling is a great way to exercise and relax, but that means it takes a lot of energy too! Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your trip with these cool water bottles .
• Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Don’t let the elements stop you from having an amazing paddle! I recommend bringing sunscreen and bug spray in the boat with you to ward off any pests and sunburns.

Related Links to Kayaking in San Francisco

• 27 Absolutely Stunning Hikes In and Around the Bay Area
• 15 Epic Places to Go Snowboarding and Skiing Near San Francisco
• 13 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking and Paddling in 2021
• 12 Best Water Shoes for Kayaking and Canoeing (2021)
• The Ultimate Kayaking Gear List: 10 Must-Have Kayaking Essentials

Related Posts

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Winter wonderlands: our 5 favorite sno-parks near seattle.

18 Absolutely Spectacular Hikes In & Near Seattle for All Levels

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Conditions on the Bay

Before you start any trip, always know the forecasted winds, tides, currents, and weather, and their potential to impact your ability to safely return to shore. Tide, current, and trip planning tools provided below and available on each Trailhead webpage will help you plan for a safe and enjoyable trip, but above all, educate yourself and take responsibility for your safety.

Tides and Currents

The daily rise and fall of the tides can substantially affect your Water Trail journey. The currents in the Bay are generated by the tides – currents are strongest during and shortly after full moon and new moon when tide differences are highest.

Plan your trip based on favorable tide, current and weather predictions. If a paddling trip is poorly planned, you can get caught fighting strong currents or stuck during low tide in mudflats far from a launch site.

It is important to learn how to read tide and current tables. Bay Area Sea Kayakers provides a helpful overview on how to plan for  tides and currents . Reading the water and knowing  how to paddle across a current  are also important skills when paddling in the Bay.  Classes or guided trips can be a great way to learn how to best plan for the tides and currents when exploring a new area.

Additional Resources

• Online tide and current conditions can be found at NOAA’s website.
• You can obtain a Northern California Tide Log from most marine supply stores and many local book stores.
• You may also find the Trip Planner page from Bay Area Sea Kayakers helpful.

 Weather and Winds

The weather on San Francisco Bay can change very quickly and is variable by location. Winds and fog can appear quickly. Check the weather before you go, but also be aware of changing conditions while on the water.

In general, in the Bay Area winds are strongest and most frequent in the summer months, particularly in the afternoon. Calmer conditions are more frequent during the spring and fall.

• Buoy data updated every few minutes can be found on NOAA’s website courtesy of the National Data Buoy Center. This website includes an interactive map with buoys you can click on to retrieve data that will be relevant to your trip.
• There are several commercial wind data websites that are popular among windsurfers and kiteboarders – check the San Francisco Boardsailing Association website or contact members for more information.
• Marine weather is broadcast continuously on VHF radio on channels 3, 4 and 6.
• NOAA provides marine weather conditions and forecasts (click on map for San Francisco Bay).
• To see satellite images and videos of Pacific Coast weather, visit the NOAA Geostationary Satellite Server website .

Water Quality

Pollutants in the Bay occasionally become concentrated enough to exceed levels considered healthy for human contact. These conditions occur most frequently within 24-48 hours after rain events, when urban pollutants are flushed into the Bay. It is recommended you limit water contact following rain events.

• Heal the Bay provides water quality health reports for beaches and launches around the Bay
• San Francisco Baykeeper  provides information about conditions and ways report pollution

There are several webcams located on the Bay that can provide a helpful snapshot of current conditions.

• Crissy Field – East Beach (courtesy of the San Francisco Boardsailing Association)
• Crown Beach, Alameda and Coyote Point, San Mateo (courtesy of Boardsports School)
• Baywinds Park (courtesy of Jack Hodges) Baywinds Park (courtesy of Ken Poulton)
• Marin (Courtesy of Webmarin)

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Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddle Tours

Our California kayak tours are suitable for all levels of experience and abilities. We use very safe & stable sit-inside sea kayaks (sit on tops are available). Tours vary in theme, and generally run 2-3 hours long. A great East Bay kayaking experience! 

Kayaking & SUP Lessons

Our lessons are the ideal way to get started with sea kayaking!  You will learn paddle techniques, gear types, trip planning, safety on & off the water, and much more! We use sit-inside sea kayaks (sit on tops are available). Generally run 3-4 hours.

Paddling Club

Alameda Paddling Club provides members with numerous benefits to include paddling trips, overnight adventures, discounts on services, and more!  Membership is only $25.00. Our Alameda kayaking and Oakland kayaking trips are a great way to get started!

Level 2 Adventures

We have a huge fleet of kayaks, SUPs, camping, & backpacking gear available. We will ensure you get the right gear for your adventure. We have package deals, delivery & pick-up options. and more! We also offer San Francisco kayak rentals too.

We have 2 locations in Alameda:  Encinal Boat Ramp + Bohol Circle Immigrant Park.  Fees start at $40 per month with 6 or 12 month options. Space is very limited!

Crossing the Bay, touring islands, overnight trips, and more; longer trips, more dynamic water ways and vigorous conditions make for high adventures!  May require higher levels of experience, fitness, and skill sets as a prerequisite.  We keep the group sizes small due to the nature of the activity.

Upcoming Tours & Lessons

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Discounts for 2 person registrations.

05/11/2024 Saturday

Introduction to kayaking.

$100 per person

  We will cover equipment, paddle techniques, trip planning, on land transporting and maintenance and safety. We will develop your boat contr...

05/12/2024 Sunday

Mothers' day kayak tour.

$75 per person

Join us for a special tour designed just for mothers. We will tour the area in a relaxed pace in safe double sea kayaks, enjoying the marine...

05/18/2024 Saturday

Sea plane lagoon kayaking tour.

$65 per person

Join us for our most popular kayak tour. You’ll paddle inside the Sea Plane Lagoon learning about the local marine life and upcoming Alameda...

Sunset Kayaking Tour

We will paddle under a setting sun exploring the the area, enjoying the sea breeze, sunshine and marine life. We will then return under dusk...

Alameda Island the best location for paddle sports

Diverse waterways.

Located on an island in the San Francisco Bay, we have many route options for all levels of skill, experience, and fitness.  Best of all, right at our location is access to beach & boat ramp launches with access to open Bay waters or protected Bay waters with it's own 2 mile long rock wall providing good wave protection.   Click here to see a Google Map with detailed water route options.

Marine Life

Alameda Point is home to 2 protected marshes and within a few miles of other marshes making for a great stopping ground for migratory birds. Also, the local harbor seal dock is home to over 50+ seals year round.  Our personal favorite is the Brown Pelican migration with over 7000+ pelicans spending the summer with us.

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Our location is situated along the San Francisco Bay & Water trails with gorgeous views of the city skyline, Bay & Golden Gate Bridges, Santa Cruz mountains, and more!  Seeing is believing, come visit this former Naval base's private beach area!

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Sea Kayaking

“Sea kayaking is a great equalizer. When I am in a kayak and free of my wheelchair it is impossible to know who is in a chair and who is not. That provides an incredible psychological freedom along with the physical freedom to exercise and explore my own limits. This proud sense of fulfillment is much more powerful than the sense of disability.”

– Jim Noyes

ETC Sea Kayak Program

Experience the joy and excitement of sea kayaking! ETC’s skilled and enthusiastic guides will train you to safely paddle our quality sea kayaks on San Francisco Bay, Tomales Bay, or points beyond. Challenge yourself as you kayak to beautiful destinations, experience biologically-rich estuaries, and learn how to become a water steward. Whether you are an individual or represent an agency, school, or corporation, ETC has a sea kayak trip tailored to perfectly suit your specific needs and goals.

Launch from ETC’s kayak program base at Schoonmaker Marina in Sausalito for a beautiful day trip on San Francisco Bay. Or journey on a unique overnight trip to historic Angel Island State Park. ETC is also thrilled to offer day trips and overnight camping adventures on Tomales Bay, adjoining Tomales Bay State Park and Point Reyes National Seashore.

Want to go further afield?  Join us on ETC Shared Adventures outside the Bay Area to far-flung destinations such as Baja California, Costa Rica, the Mendocino coast, and Lake Tahoe. These trips are a perfect way to experience a spectacular sea kayak destination and have an adventure full of rich memories.

We also offer memorable Full Moon Dinner Paddles from Sausalito to Sam’s Cafe in Tiburon, or gourmet Pizza Picnic Paddles, and our Bioluminescent Night Paddles on Tomales Bay are magical events for individuals, companies and groups of friends and family members. These trips are a great way to share a special occasion or to promote team-building. And, the proceeds from these trips support ETC’s Scholarship Fund that provides life-changing adventures for people with disabilities and under-resourced youth.

No matter which kayak adventure you choose, ETC will make sure you have an amazing adventure with rich memories to share and a desire to return for more.

ETC Kayak Adventures for Agencies and Schools

ETC’s sea kayak trips are collaborative and are conducted in partnership with social service agencies serving people of all ages with disabilities, under-resourced youth, and schools, both private and public. We invite you to bring your organization, clients, participants, or class on one of these awesome adventures:

• San Francisco Bay Day Trip • Angel Island Overnight Trip • Tomales Bay Day Trip • Tomales Bay Overnight

Shared Adventures – Benefits for ETC

Explore destinations near and far on one of our Shared Adventures! These trips are opportunities for people of all levels of experience and ability to paddle together in amazing sea kayak destinations such as Mendocino, Baja, Italy and beyond. By signing up for one of these special adventures, you also help support ETC’s Scholarship Fund, providing adventures with people w ith disabilities and under-resourced youth. Everybody is invited to join on an ETC Shared Adventure, and sliding-scale scholarships are available for people with disabilities.

Local trips:

• SF Bay Day Trip (Sunday June 2nd, 2024) • Tomales Bay Day Trip (Saturday August 17, 2024) • Moonlight Gourmet Pizza Paddle (2024 Trips TBA) • Bioluminescence Paddle on Tomales Bay (2024 Dates: 8/3, 9/28, 10/26, 11/2)

Far Flung Destinations: • Paddle Emerald Bay (September 6-9, 2024) • Kayak Baja – Isla Espiritu Santo, Sea of Cortez (December 8-14, 2024) • Paddle the Mendocino Coast (Future Dates TBA)

Corporate and Custom Adventures

Contributing to etc’s scholarship fund.

Experience the joy of an ETC adventure as a corporate retreat or team-building event, a family outing, or a special celebration. We offer custom day-paddles and overnight trips for groups of 10 or more people. By selecting one of these trips, you also help support ETC’s Scholarship Fund, which provides adventures to people with disabilities and under-resourced youth. Your ETC Custom Trip is a win/win and creates Twice the Thrill !

Types of trips offered:

• SF Bay Day Trip • Angel Island Overnight • Tomales Bay Day Trip • Tomales Bay Overnight • Bioluminescence Paddle on Tomales Bay • Moonlight Dinner Paddles

Questions and Other Resources

Please contact Sea Kayak Program Manager at [email protected] or call 415-474-7662 ext.13.

Scholarships: At ETC, we believe that everyone, regardless of financial limitations, should be able to experience the beauty of nature and the challenge of outdoor adventure. We have a limited scholarship budget should a participant not be able to afford the above prices. To apply for a scholarship, please contact the Program Manager and complete a Scholarship Application.

Resources for Participants: • Driving Directions: San Francisco Bay • Driving Directions: Tomales Bay • Equipment List: Day Trip • Equipment List: Night Paddles • Health Form & Liability Release • Health Form & Liability Release – Spanish version • Menu Planning Guide • Pricing for All Programs

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• Activities for Kids
• Classes & Camps

Up Your Kayak Game at These Bay Area Spots

These are the best family-friendly places to get your kids in a kayak in San Francisco and the Bay Area

Does it get any better than wind blowing in your hair, out on the water while getting some exercise ? Not when you’re out on a kayak with your kid! From Sausalito to Santa Cruz, catch some Vitamin C while enjoying sea life and a view of the Bay from the water. Truly, kayaking can be a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, all while also sneaking in an excellent low-impact workout and keeping our kids active. Ready for some family-friendly fun on the water? Find your next kayaking spot now! 

Related:  Kid-Friendly Fishing Spots

View this post on Instagram A post shared by City Kayak SF (@citykayak)

San Francisco

CityKayak This cool kayaking company operates right off of South Beach Harbor and Pier 40, making it super easy to access for city families. They offer rentals and kayaking classes for all levels, as well as guided tours and fireworks tours. They let any and all ages ride and have life jackets for infants, but they recommend kids be at least 11 to paddle out solo. You can even bring the family dog along for the ride!

Pier 40 San Francisco, CA Hours : Open through the whole year, check website for times Online : citykayak.com

San Francisco Kayak and Adventures This outlet offers varied routes and special hours to accommodate their popular sunset and moonlight paddles. You can’t just rent your own and paddle out here—it’s all guided tours, so be sure to check the site and sign up in advance. SF Kayaks is located just south of AT&T Park, so with baseball season gearing up, there could be a chance to hit up the famous McCovey Cove and even try to catch a home run or two. The boats are traditional closed-deck kayaks, which keep the paddlers warm and dry—perfect for San Francisco’s not-so-hot summer days. FYI: Kids must be at least 8 to ride in a double kayak with a parent.

Pier 52 San Francisco, CA Hours : Times vary Online : sfkayak.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @sarahhh.bales

Lake Chabot This beautiful reservoir offers kayak and life jacket rentals as well as guided kayak tours for both adults and kids six and older. Grab a boxed lunch from Stan's Cafe so that you can spend as long as you'd like out on the water. Explore the eight miles of shoreline in this East Bay gem.

Lake Chabot Rd. Castro Valley, CA Online:   lakechabotrecreation.com

Stacked Adventures Stacked Adventures offers a kayak concierge experience. Tell them what you want and they will deliver and pick up the gear at your desired destination! Amazing. This service even includes trip planning, which allows families to make the most of anything mother nature might throw their way (currents, weather, terrain, etc.). Private tours can be set up for groups of three or more and designed with the group's experience and interests in mind. They also offer a variety of kayaking experiences from nature tours, skill-focused workshops and what they like to call destination specific options: Kayak & Dine, Birder's Tour, Full-Moon Paddle to name a few. Stacked Adventures offers most tours for all levels of ability and experience.

Serving Alameda and surrounding area Online :  stackedadventures.com

Related: The Best Swimming Beaches for Kids

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Venture Quest (@venturequestkayaks)

Peninsula/South Bay

Venture Quest Kayaking See the boardwalk and beaches of Santa Cruz from the water with Venture Quest Kayaks! Kayak rentals and tours are offered right from the Santa Cruz wharf, making it an easy activity for residents and visitors alike. You’ll be able to check out the seals and otters near the Lighthouse Point on a safe and easy paddle thru the Wharf Nature Tour (offered from April - October). They also offer a year-round tour of Elkhorn Slough at Moss Landing, where you can do some bird watching and see seals in a calm estuary. Tours are recommended for children five years and up.

#2 Santa Cruz Wharf Santa Cruz, CA Online : santacruzkayak.com

Half Moon Bay Kayaking Company These sea-worthy folks offer not only rentals but a kid-friendly three-hour jaunt that starts off with a launch among harbor seals and birds. A paddle across the protected harbor will end up at Pillar Point and everyone will get the chance to explore the tidepools before heading back to the starting point. Call for the latest schedule. Life jackets are available for infants and up.

2 Johnson Pier Half Moon Bay, CA Online : hmbkayak.com

Foster City Lagoon Conveniently located right at the waters edge just south of the Foster City Parks and Recreation Center in Leo J. Ryan Park. The venue features safe inland waters and mild on-shore winds making it a great place for the entire family to enjoy the water. This cash-only facility offers kayak rentals as well as lessons. Park for free at the Parks and Rec lot and walk to the water's edge near the bocce ball court and then head south to the boathouse.

650 Shell Blvd. Foster City, CA Online :  californiawindsurfing.com

Shoreline Lake Head out to this beautiful spot to book some kayak time with the family. You can reserve your rig online before you go with single and double kayaks available (as well as pedalboats, rowboats and more). After you've worked up an appetite, dine at the American Bistro and take in the sights.

3160 N. Shoreline Blvd. Mountain View, CA Online : shorelinelake.com

Elkhorn Slough This spot is perfect for kayaking even for beginners as the waters are calm and you'll get the opportunity to view tons of wildlife. Kayak Connection will take you out on a family adventure tour where paddlers as young as 3 can get some water time. Or, book your rental to explore on your own.

Kayak Connection Santa Cruz Harbor and Elkhorn Slough Online : kayakconnection.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Blue Waters Kayaking (@blue.waters.kayaking)

Marin/Sonoma

Blue Waters Kayaking Head for the beauty of Tomales for a day on the Bay. It’s a journey to get out to where the launches are located, but with over 400 species of birds to find, and friendly folks ready to show everyone the ropes, this could be a fantastic weekend adventure the kiddos won’t stop raving about on Monday. Rentals are available for DIY adventures and they also offer youth camps, guided tours, classes and even overnight camping trips for the whole family.

Point Reyes Station Online :  bluewaterskayaking.com

Sea Trek Ocean Kayaking Whether you want to chart your own course or take a guided tour, this company has it all. We especially love their family tours through Sausalito, out to Angel Island or around Tomales Bay. They even offer triple kayaks, so the more kids the merrier! There is no age requirement and life vests come in all sizes. Kids as young as nine can enroll in their kayaking summer camp. For the super adventurous you can even book a kayak/camping combo trip to Angel Island.

Schoomaker Point Sausalito, CA Online :  seatrek.com/kayak-trips

Russian River Adventures Looking for the perfect family activity in Healdsburg? Paddle down the Russian River and enjoy all the peaceful tranquility that the river provides. Opt for the half-day paddle if you have little ones or the full-day for older kids (full-day is 9 miles and takes you about 5-6 hours). You walk from the office in Healdsburg to the launch location and Russian River Adventures drops your car off at the final destination so you can jet when you are done. The summer of 2021 provided water levels that were totally fine for paddling with just a few short distances where you needed to push your canoe over shallow spots. Russian River Adventures does a great job of marking areas to avoid on the river. 

Insider tips: Pack more food and drinks than you think you'll need and reapply sunscreen at regular intervals so nobody gets fried.

20 Healdsburg Ave. Healdsburg, CA Online : russianriveradventures.com

101 Surf Sports This super duper awesome sports store is also central Marin’s easy access to the bay. The launch is on the canal directly behind the shop, so you can literally rent your gear or sign up for a class and be on the water within the hour. The owners are real pros and ardent lovers of water sports, so the know-how is there for the taking. They offer rentals for the weekend, classes and even a family paddler package.

115 Third St. San Rafael, CA Online : 101surfsports.com

River’s Edge Kayak & Canoe Trips Kayaking or canoeing in the Russian River is of the the most fun activities around but probably best for older kids (and their parents!). You can rent kayaks, canoes and SUP or go on guided trips of the gorgeous upper Russian River.

Tip:  No children under four years old are allowed. Check the shuttle times as you will park your car five miles from where you’ll start to descended the river.

Healdsburg Ave. Healdsburg, CA Online:   riversedgekayakandcanoe.com

Related:  Luxurious Camping Close to the Bay Area

Farther Afield

Lake Camanche The Sierra foothills are home to this lake that is a water sport paradise. They have four single and six double "sit on" kayaks that are available for rent by the hour or by the day. Take them out to explore the beauty along the 54 miles of shoreline. Stay the weekend by reserving a camping spot or glamping it up at one of the cottages and vacation rentals at the lake.

North Shore: 2000 Camanche Road, Ione, CA South Shore: 11700 Wade Lane, Valley Springs, CA Online :  lakecamancheresort.com

Additional reporting by Jennifer Yco

featured photo by Filip Mroz via Unsplash

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