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. The sand bar at the mouth of Tomales Bay is notoriously dangerous, with a long history of small-boat accidents. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, three miles north of Point Reyes Station. Although it only takes about an hour to complete the out-and-back, the vibe surrounding this area is just begging you to slow down and enjoy your natural surroundings. The group of twelve doubled up into tandem kayaks and set out from Nick's Cove, across the bay, around Hog Island and Duck Island and back, a four hour trip. Do not dump wash/graywater in the bay; dispose of all dirty water 30 meters (100 feet) or more from any source source of water. Love oysters? Tomales Bay Expeditions are available year around and our schedules fill quickly, so why not register today? No overnight camping or beach fires. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Kayak Tomales Bay for amazing views of the Point Reyes National Seashore. Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. Kayak, paddles, life jacket, on-shore instruction & overview. Quebec is an immense land of mountains and water and an ideal location for sea kayaking. The 10 Best Places To Kayak Near San Francisco | SeaKayakExplorer You must carry your boat approximately 100 meters (110 yards) across a sandy beach. After having two horrible, Architectural Plans and 3D Virtual Tours with Matterport. Great, personable service, too!For the record: The yell I emitted after the first capsize is a traditional Bavarian expression of joy, along the lines of: \"I did it!\".For the record 2: The ball mount for the camera had cracked that same day. The best way to witness these amazing animals? Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. Kayak Tomales Bay, Marshall, California - The Outbound 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. The night can get cold, so dress in layers. The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has developed a safe eating advisory for fish caught here, based on levels of mercury or PCBs found in local species. 12948 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted on Tomales Bay. My next kayaking venture was a July 4th morning tour of Tomales Bay, hosted by Clavey. While Tomales Bay separates the two, this post will focus on the Marin side of Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay is a hotspot for bioluminescence. If you like beaches, headlands, scenic landscapes, wildflowers, and tons of wildlife viewing, you should give this hike a try. The paddle, Part 1: At Inverness, on the west side of Tomales Bay, you are largely sheltered from the prevailing spring winds out of the northwest. There are stunning National Parks, spectacular mountains, free-flowing rivers and at the center of our adventure, the glacial-carved Saguenay Fjord. Overnight parking is in the upper lot, to the right as you pull in. We are a small, locally owned company which prides ourselves in our experience, depth of knowledge and connection to our home. Take only pictures; leave only footprints. As such, all of our tours (especially night tours) are subject to environmental conditions such as tide and weather. Be extremely cautious with getting into the water. (415) 798-2040. more, oysters at station house cafe point reyes, horseback riding point reyes national seashore, living room with couch, table, fireplace and musical instruments, Point Reyes Station Inn Bed and Breakfast, Groom's Quarters Point Reyes Lodging Horse Stables. During this time, you will also have the opportunity to seek local knowledge of the area from our experienced staff. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. 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. When the weather forecast took a turn for the worse leading up to my outing, Cooper and his team were great about . The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. And again, I did not go under.I love this boat already, after the very first afternoon! . 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. Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure in Tomales Bay - Virgin Experience Gifts 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. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. As you make your way down the trail towards the beach, youll meander al Like camping in remote locations? Tours leave from multiple locations on Tomales Bay based on tide and weather conditions. We offer various kayak rental options from our launch location at the Tomales Bay Resort. Reservations may also be made by phone by calling toll free 877-444-6777 (TDD: 877-833-6777). Reyes. 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. The best paddle here is the easy trip to the southern end of Tomales Bay, a wetlands area excellent for sighting shorebirds and waterfowl. Call us today! 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. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. 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. Tomales Bay Kayak Tour | Kayaking Classes & Events - REI Point Reyes Station That year he was also awarded as Far West Ski Writer of the Year. Kayak Tomales Bay for amazing views of the Point Reyes National Seashore. There is a dump station and boat rentals. Tomales Bay, CA. How to get to Marshall: At Point Reyes Station, turn right on Highway 1 and drive 8.4 miles to Marshall and Blue Waters Kayaking at 19225 Shoreline Highway. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. The most frequently used section of the coast by kayakers is in Drakes Bay from Chimney Rock to Limantour Beach. Use biodegradable soap when possible. This phenomenon occurs in many oceans around the world but is best viewed in a place like Tomales Bay where low ambient light makes the effect much brighter. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. Microscopic, single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates produce and emit light through a chemical reaction process. Outback Adventures, Larkspur, 415-461-2222. 94956. Moderate. Turn right and drive 3.8 miles to Point Reyes Petaluma Road. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Item #: WAT-SFR-0038. Contact the National Seashore reservation office at (415) 663-8054 for reservations and to place your name on the mailing list for information. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. Come visit our launch location at the northern end of the Tomales Bay Resort in Inverness. 2 2.5 hours of Paddle time. PlayCleanGo Stop Invasive Species In Your Tracks. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. An active resort for all ages with onsite beaches, kayak rentals, boat launch, swimming pool, and restaurant. There is a pit toilet and you must carry your boat along a short trail approximately 100 yards to the water. The boat ramp is a sand bottomed ramp and Lawson's Landing uses a fork lift to move boats onto the water, or if you have 4 wheel drive they allow you to use it to put your boat into the water. Disclaimer: The National Park Service provides the names, links, and phone numbers of area businesses as a visitor convenience. Point Reyes has a thriving artist community, lively music scene and plenty of one of a kind shopping opportunities. 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. This often involves considerable work on our part to make sure that the right equipment is ready for you at the right place and time. for your first email from REI. Tomales Bay has rental stations at Inverness and Marshall, each ideal launch points for a morning flat-water paddle in Tomales Bay. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. There are also 91-meter (300-foot) special closures around Point Resistance and Double Point/Stormy Stack, per the MLPA. You sit in the pocket, enveloped by water, and in a few quick strokes, you find out what freedom is all about. Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? All reservations are subject to a 5% non-refundable handling fee at the time of booking. A pit toilet is available for use. Ocean kayaking is potentially very dangerous. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. Choose from rooms with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and water views. At the end of the tunnel, you'll find the historic RCA/Marconi Station. We recommend water shoes or strap sandals. As part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay is a bit secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you have questions or ideas about arranging a paddle or an event, were here to help. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. 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. No Problem! Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? Tomales Bay SP - CA State Parks Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. From our headquarters in downtown Point Reyes Station, we have everything you need to load up kayaks or SUPs on your vehicle, and this easy process allows you a much wider array of options when exploring Tomales Bay. ~~Where tour is cancelled after we already launched the kayaks and must return to shore within the first-hour patrons can: ~~Where tour is cancelled before we have launched the kayaks patrons can: To Reserve Overnight Kayak Rentals, Please Check Out Our, Every Saturday & Sunday you can pick up a board or boat from us right on the shore of Hearts Desire Beach (Monday through Friday reservations available by ADVANCED RESERVATION $800 Minimum), 7 Days a week, you can load them on to your vehicle from our headquarters in downtown Point Reyes Station and take them to one of the beautiful local launch locations on Tomales Bay (, Load your boat or board on to a set of wheels and take them on a 7-10 minute walk to Lagunitas Creek from our Point Reyes Headquarters. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. Tomales Bay Expeditions Kayak Trips Rentals Tours 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,. No restrooms or water. 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. 10 Best Rivers To Paddle In Quebec - Paddling Magazine TOMALES BAY STATE PARK(415) 669-1140The state park provides two access areas to Tomales Bay, Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. 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. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. Plenty of car parking is available for guests. Tomales Bay Expeditions, Point Reyes Station, 415-798-2040. Use our quick contact form below and well get back to you a.s.a.p. - 2D & 3D Existing Plans, Established in June of 1978, High Sierra Water Ski School is located on the pristine, We offer hassle free insured drivers for your rental or personal car. Tomales Bay Day Rentals; Tomales Bay Camping It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. Wear comfortable synthetic clothes as they dry faster. No overnight use or beach fires. Located in the historic village of Inverness, minutes from restaurants and Point Reyes National Seashore, youll enjoy exceptional privacy, tranquility and unmatched views of the bay. When these organisms are moved by waves or by the paddle of a kayak or canoe, the light becomes visible, especially on dark nights. The National Park Service at Point Reyes is concerned about the effects of the growth in recreational use. THERE IS ONLY BACKPACKING AND BOAT IN CAMPING AT POINT REYES- NO CAR OR RV CAMPING DON'T OVERBOOK A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and. They also offer guided kayaking tours for a cost. Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay. He is America's first Back Country Sportsman of the Year and the only two-time National Outdoor Writer of the year. Customers get to experience the epic scenery, abundant wildlife and favorable kayaking conditions which make Tomales Bay a world class place to paddle. 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. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Other sections of the coast are kayaked, but they are not as sheltered from the prevailing wind and ocean swell, and are therefore much more dangerous. The Tomales Bay State Park General Plan. Tours leave from various locations depending on tidal conditions. Our rental fleet consists of open deck double and single kayaks hand selected to match the conditions on the bay. There is a day use fee and overnight use fee. This Marin County park has a public boat launch with a cement ramp into the water, in addition to a pier and restrooms. This restriction is necessary to reduce the amount of injurious trash in the park and for the protection of visitors who frequent these areas in bare feet. No overnight parking is permitted. Some of the Tomales Bay beaches that are open for overnight camping to those who have a current and valid permit are (listed from south to north): Marshall BeachOn the west side of Tomales Bay across from the town of Marshall. Your Safety While Boating - Point Reyes National Seashore (U.S 415-464-5100 Carpooling saves money, space, and the environment! A vault toilet is available. Tomales Bay - Hipcamp Join once, enjoy forever. Other temporary or seasonal closures may be in effect at different times due to breeding populations of marine mammals, shorebirds, or seabirds. (415) 798-2040. Be it a picnic, birthday or boat-in camping trip, we believe that every expedition deserves to be crafted to meet the needs of its participants. Under the ocean of infinite stars, on the darkest night of Tomales Bay, discover magic in the oceans garden. Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach His first novel, "The Sweet Redemption, An Inspector Korg Mystery," was released for 2013. 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? Restrooms and water available. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. Triples also available. Motorized vessels are prohibited within 100 of the swim area markers. This Marin County park has a public boat launch with cement grade into the water, restrooms, and a pier. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. The road opens up as you pass Nicasio Reservoir (full right now) on the left. To help control the spread of non-native plants and animals, please: NPSWilderness has produced three videos entitled Wilderness Calling: Point Reyes, Wilderness Motion: Point Reyes, and Wilderness Visions: Point Reyes featuring images and sounds from the Phillip Burton Wilderness within Point Reyes National Seashore, in addition to two videos about NPS wilderness: America's Wilderness and Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics which kayakers and other visitors to Point Reyes may find of interest. Land for a picnic. Tom has hiked 25,000 miles, caught world-record fish, led dozens of expeditions and taken part in all phases of the outdoor experience. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. This is it! Tomales Bay Expeditions (Marshall) - All You Need to Know - Tripadvisor The island is open on the west side only for day use. 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. more, Perfect for couples or families who want privacy and the comforts of home this lovely two bedroom cottage is walking distance to the charming historic village center of Olema and nearby trails. Adjacent communities include Pt. more, An exceptionally peaceful Inn set atop a bluff looking out over an iconic view of rolling grasslands, Tomales Bay and Inverness Ridge guests come here for the spectacular view, privacy and deep serenity. 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. Call us today! Off-site rentals, $75 all day on weekdays, $115 on weekends. Camping on the beaches on the westside of Tomales Bay north of Tomales Bay State Park's northern boundary, if you have reserved a boat-in camping permit. 3 hours total: 30 minutes for on-shore instruction, overview, and life vests and paddle fitting. Bioluminescence in Tomales Bay is virtually impossible to capture on film, most of the white-blue fluorescent photos seen here where not taken in Tomales Bay. No overnight use or beach fires. THERE IS NO WATER FOR BOAT IN CAMPERS ON TOMALES BAY, BRING YOUR OWN. Cancel completely. If you time it right and are paddling at night, you'll also get to experience bioluminescence. Take that exit 0.3 of a mile to a stop sign, turn left on Lucas Valley Road and drive 10.4 miles to Nicasio Valley Road. Please check in at the Bear Valley Visitor Center prior to a trip in order to get updated information on closures or conditions. Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. This place is known as the Ottawa Valley. The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. Hog IslandThe island is in the northern section of Tomales Bay across from Whites Gulch on the west side and Nicks Cove on the east side. You can also buy phone cases or dry bag from us by placing your order in advance, $25. PFDs and paddles are included with each rental. The best way to witness these amazing animals? There is a day-use fee and overnight-use fee. Indian BeachThis beach is north of Hearts Desire and has a redwood kotca, a traditional Coast Miwok sleeping shelter on it. These can include bioluminescent organisms, nocturnal predators such as owls, and, if the skies are clear, excellent star gazing! His books have sold more than 1 million copies. 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 Limantour Estero to boating. . No dump station. (, Load your boat or board on to a set of wheels and walk them 5 to 10 minutes to Lagunitas Creek, Available by Request w/ $800 minimum per day, We also rent closed deck kayaks if you have taken a recovery course with us or another kayak outfitter. According to the Shark Research Committee , from 1900 to the 2012, there were 154 authenticated unprovoked white shark attacks reported in California, with only 15 fatal shark attacks . (3) Fitness level : 3. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. Possession of a glass container within fifteen meters (fifty feet) of any riverbank, lakeshore, or beach, or on the water, or in a vessel is prohibited. The inn and marina are located on the west side of the bay. more, Two peaceful cottages located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. One thing th Just north of San Francisco, there's a row of giant Monterey cypress trees that forms a tree tunnel. (. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Want to get away for an invigorating outdoorsy vacation? (415) 798-2040. Rent top gear from your local REI Co-op. French influence has of course extended to the local cuisine, which is rich in seafood and delectable desserts. We will use our decades of experience in this area to make sure you have a safe, enlightening and . Medium rigor. Walk, boat, or bike to explore Point Reyes National Seashore from your front door. No camping, overnight parking, or beach fires. They are optional based on your comfort. Bioluminescence Tour in Tomales Bay - Napa Valley Paddle Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay. Lawson's Landing's campground and boat launch are located in Dillon Beach with direct access to the north end of Tomales Bay. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. All rentals subject to availability. In the morning, we saw hammer sharks, rays swimming in the water while enjoying our breakfast. In this case the following policies apply and each patron is responsible to contact the office to make arrangements. Napa Valley Paddle's Bioluminescent kayak touring company offers nature's most illuminating light show in the waters of Tomales Bay on the darkest nights of July, August, September, and October, 2023. Beach fires are prohibited on state park beaches. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your more, Tomales Bay Resort is located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. No overnight parking for boat-in campers is allowed in Point Reyes National Seashore or Tomales Bay State Park. Bioluminescense tends to be strongest in the summer and fall, although in recent years it has been seen regularly throughout the winter and spring as well. Tomales Bay State Park Along with our normal rental orientation, Hobie rentals include an additional few minutes of instruction on how to operate the pedal-drive and rudder system. Dry everything five days or more, unless otherwise required by local or state laws, when moving between waters to kill small species not easily seen OR wipe with a towel before reuse. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. If you plan to have a. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. As such, it is important to minimize our impacts and Leave No Trace of our visits to Tomales Bay and Point Reyes National Seashore. 15% gratuity and 5% Point Reyes National Seashore fee is included in the ticket price. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. Bring a cap or hoodie, a waterproof shell, and waterproof pants to avoid your feet and legs getting wet from the drips from the paddle. 9 Cool Things to Do in Tomales Bay, California Kayaking Day Tours Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. Bioluminescence Kayaking in the Bay Area: A Complete Guide Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. It is the emission of light by microorganisms undersea called marine dinoflagellate or plankton. Unpaid credit card deposits will be charged. 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. So the camera was sitting too loose and thus was knocked over by the same waves that tipped me. Per the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA), the waters within 305 meters (1000 feet) of shore along the Point Reyes Headlands is closed to all vessels from Chimney Rock west to Longitude 123 01.00'. Napa Valley Paddle(Inside) Sav Up Crossfit1075 Lakeville St. Petluma, CA 94952, The Bioluminescent Kayak Tour in Tomales Bay. We pedaled to all the beach nearby. Renters can enjoy the comfort and stability of a large sit-on-top while achieving speeds usually reserved for racing kayaks. Tomales Bay Expeditions now offers rentals of high performance pedal-drive kayaks. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. You must carry your boat approximately 100 yards across a sandy beach. Turn right and drive 4.9 miles (Tomales Bay is on the right) to Inverness and Blue Waters Kayaking at Tomales Bay Resort, 12944 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. 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. (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! hoping to witness the phenomenon before winter weather ended bioluminescent viewing season and made nighttime trips too dangerous. The island is in the northern section of Tomales Bay across from Whites Gulch on the west side and Nicks Cove on the east side. Photograph the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes. Menu Close Home; Rentals Open menu. In seconds, you will change what you see and transform how you feel. At Tomales Bay Expeditions our goal is to ensure that your experience on the water is both safe and satisfying. Come see some of Earth's finest creatures with cheery and adventurous new friends. Another area within Point Reyes National Seashore that is sometimes used by kayakers is the open coast. All of our tours are led by guides with years of experience on Tomales Bay. If you wash dishes, be aware that all soaps can adversely affect water. We look forward to hearing from you. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. If you plan to make this an overnight trip, check out Kayak Camping in Pt. Where can I launch my kayak in Tomales Bay? Not for beginner kayakers and not recommended for kids under 14 years old. Overnight parking for boat-in campers is prohibited within Point Reyes National Seashore (i.e., along the Pierce Point and L Ranch Roads and at the Marshall Beach Trailhead) and Tomales Bay State Park. This hike will take you through the Tule Elk Preserve in Point Reyes Nation Seashore, and offers fantastic views of Bodega and Tomales Bay, as well as the Pacific Ocean. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. A vault toilet is available at the kayak launch site at the south end of the Drakes Estero Access Road. Or, reserve our handcrafted, wooden whale 4-seater boat with a personal guide. Blue Gum BeachThere will be seasonal closures on this beach to protect harbor seal pupping. If you need to rent a kayak, Blue Waters has you covered! Clavey Paddlesports, Petaluma, 707-766-8070.