Best Places to Kayak in California
by Aventura on April 5, 2023
California is a fantastic place for kayaking, with a wide variety of waterways to explore, from serene lakes to wild ocean coastlines. Check out our Aventura list of best spots to kayak in California:
Channel Islands
Channel Islands National Park is definitely one of the best places to kayak in California. The park is home to five of the eight Channel Islands, each with its own unique features and opportunities for kayaking. In addition to sea caves, kayakers can explore kelp forests, rocky cliffs, and pristine beaches. It's a great place to spot marine wildlife such as sea lions, dolphins, and whales. Santa Cruz Island is a popular spot for kayaking due to its calm waters and scenic coastline. Anacapa Island is also a great spot for kayaking, with opportunities to explore sea caves and see nesting seabirds.
Kern River
The Kern River is a popular spot for kayaking and river rafting outside Southern California. The river is known for its wild whitewater ranging from Class II to Class V rapids, making it a great destination for experienced paddlers looking for a thrilling adventure. The lower Kern River is more suitable for beginners and offers a more relaxed kayaking experience. Additionally, Lake Isabella, located near the Kern River, provides a calm and scenic paddling opportunity. It's important to note that the Kern River can be dangerous and proper precautions should be taken before embarking on a kayaking trip, such as checking water levels and wearing appropriate safety gear.
La Jolla
La Jolla in San Diego is an excellent place for kayaking with plenty of options available for both experienced and novice kayakers. La Jolla Cove is a protected marine reserve and an excellent place for kayaking as you can see a wide range of marine life, including sea lions, garibaldi fish, and sometimes even dolphins. You can also paddle through sea caves and rock formations, which makes for a thrilling kayaking experience. The nearby La Jolla Shores is another popular spot for kayaking with calm waters and a beautiful stretch of beach.
Russian River
Russian River is an incredible spot for kayaking in California. It’s a must-visit for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Paddling on the river is a relaxing way to take in the scenic beauty of Sonoma County. The calm waters are perfect for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and it’s a great way to see local wildlife, including otters, turtles, eagles, and other cool birds.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe offers some of the most stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for kayaking. Emerald Bay, located on the southwest side of the lake, is one of the most popular spots for kayaking in Lake Tahoe. The bay boasts turquoise waters and stunning views of Fannette Island and the surrounding mountains. Another great spot is Sand Harbor, which has several beaches and coves to explore. You can also launch your kayak from various other locations around the lake, including Kings Beach and Tahoe City.
Newport Beach
Newport Harbor in Newport Beach is a great spot for kayaking in Southern California. With calm waters and scenic views of multimillion-dollar homes and yachts, it's a popular destination for kayakers of all levels. You can rent a kayak and explore the harbor on your own, or hop on a dinghy boat rental and hit the many dock and dine locations around the area. Additionally, Newport Beach is a top spot for sailing, surfing and other water sports.
Tomales Bay
Tomales Bay, located in the Point Reyes National Seashore area, is a stunning destination in Northern California, and kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the area. Paddle along the calm waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery, which includes lush forests, rolling hills, and rugged coastline. In addition to daytime kayaking tours, Tomales Bay also offers peaceful nighttime tours where you can see bioluminescent plankton lighting up the bay as you paddle. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of shooting stars in the clear night sky.
Santa Barbara
The calm waters of Santa Barbara harbor are perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxing paddle. In addition to sea lions, you might also spot dolphins or even whales in the distance during their migration season. The Channel Islands are also visible from the coast and make for a beautiful backdrop on a clear day.
Honorable Mentions
Here are a few additional spots that almost made the Aventura California kayak list, but are still more than worth a visit: Big Bear Lake, Alamitos Bay, Morro Bay, Huntington Harbor, Lake Shasta, and Mendocino Coast.
