Best Kayaking Bay Area

Summer is around the corner, and the weather becomes warmer and warmer.



So, it’s a great time to start an adventure in the ocean. For us, there is no better way than reveling in the beauty of the sea by paddling on a kayak. And there is nothing better than kayaking Bay Area at this time.



Similar to kayaking in Miami, the Bay Area is popular for its gold coasts, fantastic beaches, and splendid sunsets that are home to the best paddle-boarding and kayaking in North America. No matter what you want to explore hidden paradise or seeing sea lions, you fall in love with this place at first sight.



And here are top 7 spots for kayaking in the Bay Area that you should choose one or all in this summer vacation.



Top 7 best kayaking Bay Area to visit

Best for newbies – Half Moon Bay



25 miles south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is known as one of the most distinct ocean ecosystems in the US. Moreover, it’s famous for the Mavericks surf contest due to its surprisingly pleasant setting for paddling.



As a protected harbor, this bay boasts to giving awesome chances to spot wildlife and an attracting array of nearby restaurants as well as watering holes to pause after kayaking many hours.



Hire a kayak at Half Moon Bay Kayak or bring yours and then paddle early to make the most of shiny waters during high tide. If the weather is incredible, it will be ideal to venture out a bit into the Pacific. But, if not, you also have fun with an airy harbor excursion.



All in all, Half Moon Bay is a perfect choice for those who are still new in kayaking and surfing.



Best for sports fans – McCovey Cove

Kayaking and experiencing a giant baseball game at the same time is one of the most exciting things when going to McCovey Cove.



This channel just out of the right-field fence of the SF Giants’ AT&T Park is described as a “blast” with kayakers hanging out and bobbing in the hopes of catching a “splash hit” off the bat. To do it, it’s best to prepare a fishing net, a pair of gloves, and the best water shoes for kayaking, of course.



The modern-day action is also similar to what used to take place back in McCovey’s playing days before the now-destroyed Candlestick Park had its upper deck extended. Some bleachers were placed in the area behind the right field, and kids in the areas often crawled behind the field fence to try to catch the “splash hit.”



For the first time here, it’s sure that you should play this unique sport at least once.



Watch this video to know better





Best for wildlife observation – Tomales Bay



If you want a place to breathe and paddle alone through miles of untouched beauty when kayaking Bay Area, Tomales Bay is exactly what you’re looking.



Protected by the Point Reyes National Seashore, this 15-mile coastal inlet is an ideal scene for calm-water paddling and wildlife viewing. You are able to see elk, starfishes, fishes, and pelicans unlike anywhere else in this area while paddling past magnificent rolling hills, gorgeous white cliffsides, and unspoiled beaches.



In case you decide to take a kayaking trip in the moonlight, you can experience a rare natural phenomenon in which microscopic aquatic organisms are noticeable at night with a beautiful blueish glow. The bioluminescence of this bay is actually an impressive experience.



Although you can take a chance to visit outside the bay, be careful since some ocean surfs might be dangerous. Moreover, some favorite spots are closed at times to protect the sea life.



To enjoy all the beauty from Tomales Bay, it’s best to select tours from Point Reyes Outdoors or Blue Waters Kayaking.



Best for seeing archetypal landmarks – Sausalito



To be honest, no kayaking Bay Area is complete without a sunset trip at Sausalito, nestled in the Richardson Bay.



Although the scene is quite urban, the experience is exceptionally fantastic. Starting from Sausalito, you should kayak under the Golden Bridge and head to other famous Bay Area’s spots such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Angel Island, Alcatraz Island, Sutro Baths of Land’s End, and other gorgeous cliffs.



Depending on your experience and the weather, you can consider renting a sea kayak or take a guided excursion since the bay and ocean waves here might become challenging if you’re not prepared well. With up to 30 years in the business, Sea Trek Kayak and SUP is the most popular and affordable rental place that you can trust.



Best for experiencing typical California – Monterey Bay

If you ask any Californian where the best place to kayak in northern California, they will instantly say the name of the Monterey Bay.



About 45 miles of shoreline between the city of Monterey and Santa Cruz, this stunning bay boasts one of the best places to view oceans and wildlife. And the must-see spots you should set foot is Monterey State Beach in the South and Elkhorn Slough in the North. Both sheltered bays offer calm surf conditions almost all day but remember to watch out for some unexpected swells.



Additionally, this bay is ideal for wildlife viewing. You can see seals, pelicans, sea lions, and otters at Elkhorn Slough while marine mammals are found with a large number at Santa Cruz. Even, you can go kayaking with whales if you’re in luck.



When you’re in the Monterey Bay, it’s not hard to find an ideal tour that is suitable for your different hobbies such as nightlight paddles, bird-watching tour, and so on. Just in case you want to go alone, make sure to check which month is perfect before starting your trip.



If you’re lucky, you can kayak with whales





Best for urban kayakers – Oakland

From the Oakland harbor and Oakland estuary, let’s start a refreshing urban kayaking trip out of the harbor. Then you can discover the industrial side of Oakland when going through by humanmade parks, cranes, warehouses, and other buildings.



Continue paddling your kayak south through the Oakland estuary and head toward San Leandro to reach Coast Guard Island. After that, take a break for a small picnic at Union Point Park before turning back to Jack London Square.



Best for family outings – Russian River



The last name of the best kayaking Bay Area is the Russian River, which is located in northern California. This spot boasts a vast variety of untouched beauty, easily navigable waters, and gorgeous wildlife.



By kayaking on the upper part of the 110-mile river, you can explore amazing sandbars, forests, and pastures. Besides, turtles, deer, blue herons, and otters are familiar sights. And when coming closer to the Pacific Ocean, where the river flattens outs and widens, you can find seals and some ocean-going marine mammals.



A BIG note to remember is that this river has some sections with class 2 and 3 rapids. So, you need to check reports carefully before going.



Conclusion

Since kayaking is safe, flexible, fun, and affordable, it’s good for all of ages and abilities. And kayaking Bay Area is a fantastic way so that you can explore some of the most exclusive marine life in the world for sure.



Now, after reading our review of the top 7 places to kayak in the Bay Area, which one will be your next destination in this summer? If you enjoy both kayaking and playing baseball, McCovey Cove will be the best choice. Or in case you only want to view the gorgeous scene, Sausalito or Monterey Bay is rather ideal.



But, no matter where you’re going to visit, make sure you prepare enough necessary items so that you can enjoy a great kayaking trip. Or you can read more posts on our site to enrich your knowledge about kayaking.



And don’t forget to share your experience afterward. We’re burning to see your comments in the box below.