3 hours total: 30 minutes for on-shore instruction, overview, and life vests and paddle fitting. Beach fires are prohibited on state park beaches. With hundreds of marine dinoflagellates assembled in the bay, the collective effect can be magical. Kayaking on Tomales Bay - SFGATE Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. Option & Pricing: Select Package & Pricing Option. The night can get cold, so dress in layers. Kayak Beautiful Tomales bay and experience the bioluminescence ecology of the bay. Need something for your next adventure? Wittenberg, Olema Valley, Inverness Ridge and Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay is one of the most stunning paddling destinations in California, and Blue Waters Kayaking has multiple options for you to go out and explore on your own via kayak or stand up paddle board: Tomales Bay typically gets higher winds after 12pm, and all rentals must be back by 4:30pm. Tomales Bay is a 24-kilometer (15-mile) long, 2645-hectare (6780-acre) tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. It is a critical wildlife habitat, a favorite haul-out for seals, and roosting place for brown pelicans. Wear comfortable synthetic clothes as they dry faster. Tomales Bay Expeditions now offers rentals of high performance pedal-drive kayaks. The only marine Wilderness on the west coast of the continental United States, the esteros (Spanish for estuaries) offer relatively undisturbed habitat for harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and many species of birds and fish. We schedule these trips during the most ideal viewing conditions. Please read A Guide to Low-Impact Boat Camping. Note: All paddlers must be a minimum of 5 years of age and 50 pounds in weight. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Blue Waters Kayaking is now offering Kayak & SUP Rentals from the shore of Hearts Desire Beach in the Tomales Bay State Park EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY! If you are in the Bay Area, check out California Canoe \u0026 Kayak in Oakland. No overnight use or beach fires. Blue Waters Kayaking and Hiking, Point Reyes Station, 415-669-2600. There is a day-use and overnight fee charged. Our drivers are, We've always been captivated by the sea, and since 1998, we've had the pleasure of, Being a Napa native, I offer small-group services for a more intimate experience,. They had a demo boat that took all of an hour to convince me. Boaters may pull up on the southern edge of the beach to access the restrooms and drinking water. All reservations are subject to a 5% non-refundable handling fee at the time of booking. A vault toilet is available. Quebec Kayaking & Camping Trips with Sea Kayak Adventures There is no charge for rescheduling during this time period. While Tomales Bay separates the two, this post will focus on the Marin side of Tomales Bay. All very beautiful n deserted. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. (2 kayaks or 3 SUPs can fit on top of any vehicle.) The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. And again, I did not go under.I love this boat already, after the very first afternoon! Loved by Bay Area locals, it's a tucked away spot in the Point Reyes National Seashore for photographers to capture early morning sun rays, or for anyone to get some moments of solitude. The Seashore faces the challenge of not only preserving the pristine shorelines of Tomales Bay and assisting in protecting clean water, but also providing recreational opportunities for the public. How to get to Inverness: At Point Reyes Station, turn left on Highway 1 and drive 0.8 of a mile (stay on Highway 1 at signed turns) to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. So the camera was sitting too loose and thus was knocked over by the same waves that tipped me. If you plan to make this an overnight trip, check out Kayak Camping in Pt. Kayak trips offer chance to see bioluminescence on Tomales Bay The most frequently used section of the coast by kayakers is in Drakes Bay from Chimney Rock to Limantour Beach. Chicken Ranch Beach is a three-acre natural area adjacent to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.8 km (1.2 miles) north of Inverness. When the weather forecast took a turn for the worse leading up to my outing, Cooper and his team were great about . It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. A portable toilet is available. During this time, you will also have the opportunity to seek local knowledge of the area from our experienced staff. The area is world-renowned for bioluminescence tours in California. The whole hike is beautiful. The National Park Service at Point Reyes is concerned about the effects of the growth in recreational use. Please note: Pelican Point, Duck Island, and the east side of Hog Island are closed to the public year round to better protect nesting and roosting birds. It is a critical wildlife habitat, a favorite haul-out for seals and roosting place for brown pelicans. No restrooms or water. Dog friendly options. Even if you aren't camping, feel free to download our Tomales Bay Boat-in Camping Map (1,798 KB PDF), which shows the locations of some launch sites, beaches, and other useful landmarks to help you navigate around the bay. Moderate. The paddle, Part 2: At Marshall, on the east side of Tomales Bay, arrive early, before the wind comes up, and enjoy the morning flat-water trip across the bay to the western shore at Point Reyes National Seashore. Above is a map showing the beaches on the west side of Tomales Bay and below is a list of the beaches from south to north. Please wait until you are in West Marin before purchasing fire wood. They are optional based on your comfort. Up to 7 days prior to the event: Full refunds of any fees paid will be given during this time period, minus the 5% non-refundable handling fee. Perfect fit for the larger person like me. Kayaking Day Tours Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. 12948 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, Follow the trail for roughly three miles. Kayaking - Point Reyes Lodging He is America's first Back Country Sportsman of the Year and the only two-time National Outdoor Writer of the year. more, From oysters plucked fresh from Tomales Bay to local wine and cheese tastings, Point Reyes and the surrounding areas offer an unforgettable range of dining more, With so much beauty to see in the Point Reyes National Seashore why not cover some of it on horseback? Tours - Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California All of our night tours have some chance of seeing bioluminescense, however there are many factors which effect its density and brightness. Tandem Kayak - A kayak with two paddlers paddling the same boat. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. We take pride in maintaining the quality of our kayaks and equipment. The 10 Best Places To Kayak Near San Francisco | SeaKayakExplorer In 2008, he won first place for best outdoors column in America. Anyone can join and everyone belongs. It is off Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) north of Inverness. Napa Valley Paddles blue water kayaking starts just before nightfall so that you can enjoy the rich colors of the sun setting on the horizon. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. We pedaled to all the beach nearby. Prior to launching, each customer will be provided a tutorial including information about the equipment and the rules and regulations of kayaking on Tomales Bay. If you observe drone use in Point Reyes National Seashore, please call park dispatch at 415-464-5170 or contact staff at the nearest Visitor Center as soon as possible. We can (and often do) turn away others from that particular date (or trip). If you decide to cancel, it can be difficult for us to book someone else on that trip, and in some cases may cause a trip to be cancelled due to the effect on minimum group size requirements. Read A Guide to Low-Impact Boat Camping for more information about camping on the beaches of Tomales Bay and obtaining a permit to do so. Included in the rental fee is a short introductory kayak lesson, directions on where to go and what to see, as well as your paddling equipment such as paddle, life vest, and a wet suit. Please explore responsibly! Not for beginner paddlers. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and pretty chaotic, unpredictable conditions there. Crescent Tandem Kayak, sit-on-top with elevated, framed single seats. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. We will use our decades of experience in this area to make sure you have a safe, enlightening and . Located to the west of Ottawa, "the Valley" stretches along the Ottawa River from Arnprior up to Deep River and extends . Where can I launch my kayak in Tomales Bay? Tours leave from various locations depending on tidal conditions. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. The island is open on the west side only for day use. Overnight parking is in the upper lot, to the right as you pull in. The park is more, A secluded Mediterranean-style bed and breakfast in a quiet pastoral setting looking out on the Inverness Ridge and West Marins beautiful rolling hills youll love the vineyard views, serene koi pond and wine tasting room. After having two horrible, Architectural Plans and 3D Virtual Tours with Matterport. Off-site rentals, $75 all day on weekdays, $115 on weekends. Ocean kayaking is potentially very dangerous. This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (i.e., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc. Nature's Night Lights National Parks Conservation Association While no prior experience is required to partake in these endeavors, first time paddlers and those new to the area may consider a guided tour. There was one group departing n 2 other campers coming in. Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure in Tomales Bay - Virgin Experience Gifts If you wash dishes, be aware that all soaps can adversely affect water. One must carry one's boat along a short trail approximately 100 meters (110 yards) to the water. With opportunities to view the sunset and bioluminescence from your campsite, its no wonder our 24 and 48 hour rentals are two of our most sought after options. Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. All of our tours are led by guides with years of experience on Tomales Bay. more, Perched directly over the Stables, the Grooms Quarters is a unique vacation rental that provides comfortable and spacious accommodation for friends or family visiting Point Reyes with horses. (37 Reviews ) Experience one of nature's most spectacular light shows as you paddle through the glowing waters of Tomales Bay during this Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure! Two guides per group. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Please understand that when a reservation is made with Blue Waters Kayaking, it is a commitment on our part to hold seats in a kayak for you. It is located on the east side of Tomales Bay off Highway 1, north of the town of Marshall. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. Contacts: Blue Waters Kayaking, (415) 669-2600, www.bwkayak.com. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. (415) 798-2040. This area can get busy so reservations are strongly suggested. 1 Bear Valley Road Most canoe trippers plan a Noire River canoe route of 5 to 7 days to enjoy the river's best campsites, scenery and whitewater paddling, but shorter trips and day trips are also possible. As part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay is a bit secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, there are rare occasions where we have launched and weather patterns change suddenly at which time we must return to shore. As the evening fades into darkness, the sky is lit by stars above, followed by traces of bioluminescence glowing as its spills from your kayak paddle. If you need to rent a kayak, Blue Waters has you covered! You can easily unsubscribe at any time. There is a dump station and boat rentals. Having frequently the most desirable kayaking conditions in the area, this site also provides boat-in access to many public beaches without crossing the bay. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, three miles north of Point Reyes Station. Tomales Bay has rental stations at Inverness and Marshall, each ideal launch points for a morning flat-water paddle in Tomales Bay. There is a day use fee and overnight use fee. (The venue for each class will be wind, weather, and tide dependent.) Timed during the lowest crescent of the moon, and starting around sunset, you will paddle into . : For a list of Kayaking Outfitters in the Point Reyes area, check our Outfitters and Tours page. 12 Best Places To Go Canoing And Kayaking Near Ottawa - Paddling Magazine Shane C. said: I truly can't say enough about this place! His first novel, "The Sweet Redemption, An Inspector Korg Mystery," was released for 2013. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. Tomales Bay State Park is just south of all of these beaches and is open 8 a.m. to sunset daily for kayak day trips. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. Call us today! more, Tomales Bay Resort is located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call. Liz and I were drifting in a double kayak on Tomales Bay, the long, skinny slice of seawater that sits next to California's Point Reyes National Seashore. The newsletter sign-up system is currently down for maintenance. No advanced paddling techniques are required to get maximum performance; just push the pedals harder to go faster! Tomales Bay Day Rentals - Blue Waters Kayaking That year he was also awarded as Far West Ski Writer of the Year. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. and the other 3 hours are spent learning as you paddle along the beautiful coastline of the Tomales Bay State Park or the Point Reyes National Seashore. Not for beginner kayakers and not recommended for kids under 14 years old. MILLER COUNTY PARK (415) 499-6387Also known as Nicks Cove. All boat-in camping permits must be reserved through the National Park Service in advance of booking kayak rentals, and can be obtained at the Bear Valley Visitor Center before your departure. No camping, overnight parking, or beach fires. There are stunning National Parks, spectacular mountains, free-flowing rivers and at the center of our adventure, the glacial-carved Saguenay Fjord. Blue Waters Kayaking is now offering Kayak & SUP Rentals from the shore of Heart's Desire Beach in the Tomales Bay State Park EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY! You must carry your boat approximately 100 yards across a sandy beach. We look forward to hearing from you. Land for a picnic. The island is open on the west side only for day use. Rent top gear from your local REI Co-op. The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. more, A peaceful, stylish retreat set in four private acres of orchards and open space, Point Reyes Country Inn welcomes guests to spacious, beautifully furnished rooms, gourmet breakfasts and the tranquility of the West Marin countryside. The Tomales Bay State Park General Plan. Go to our Camping page if youre interested in boat-in camping. Winter Kayaking & Birding Tours with David Wimpfheimer: Sundays December 29, 2013 and January 19, 2014. . Start at the Tomales Point Trailhead near the Historic Pierce Point Ranch. Overnight beach camping is not permitted anywhere else on Tomales Bay or elsewhere within Point Reyes National Seashore. Tomales Bay, CA. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. No overnight parking for boat-in campers is allowed in Point Reyes National Seashore or Tomales Bay State Park. Included in the Total Price below: Kayak or SUP and all necessary gear, 10% of your rental supports the California State Parks, and 5% is a non-refundable booking fee. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. Instead, take Lucas Valley Road. Tomales Bay Kayaking and Camping Beaches Overnight use of Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour is prohibited. Beach fire permits are required and may be obtained free at park visitor centers. At Tomales Bay Expeditions our goal is to ensure that your experience on the water is both safe and satisfying. After this time no money will be refunded, Within 7 days (including the day of the event): all cancellations and no shows will be charged in full with no refunds or reschedules unless due to inclement weather. To protect harbor seals from disturbance during the most crucial part of the pupping season, from March 1 through June 30, the National Park Service closes Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour to boating. (locations are listed in the order in which one would encounter them moving counter-clockwise around the bay from Tomales Point to Dillon Beach). No overnight camping or beach fires. The whaleboat is built to allow light to reflect through the translucent hull. Kayak Rentals Tomales Bay | Tomales Bay Expeditions This 4 mile paddle is perfect for those with a little bit of prior paddling experience-- we'll bring all the necessary gear and a refresher on kayaking basics before getting started. Recreational use of Tomales Bay has grown in recent years especially for camping, boating, and wildlife watching. adventures and follow local regulations. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Microscopic, single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates produce and emit light through a chemical reaction process. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. Movements from a swimming fish, the stroke of a paddle to displaced water from the hull of your kayak can excite the organisms causing a shimmering burst of fluorescent green-blue light. A pit toilet is available for use. As such, it is important to minimize our impacts and Leave No Trace of our visits to Tomales Bay and Point Reyes National Seashore. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. (415) 798-2040. (. This is a guided, night time paddle often in pitch black darkness. Please note that personal water craft (PWC)often referred to by the trademarked brand names Jet Ski, WaveRunner, or Sea-Dooare, Beach Fire Permits are required. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach.