The San Francisco Bay Area is home to some of the most stunning and varied paddling destinations in California (and, yes, we are heavily biased). Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the Bay’s unique mix of urban and remote settings offers something for everyone. Here’s a look at the top spots to explore by kayak, with a peek into their history and the sights you can expect along the way.
1. Sausalito: Gateway to Adventure
Sausalito is a beloved destination for paddlers, offering sheltered waters with stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz, and Angel Island. Historically a fishing and shipbuilding town, Sausalito now exudes a bohemian charm with its houseboats and vibrant arts community. Sausalito has several accessible launching site for paddlers and it’s typically protected from strong currents and winds. Yet if you’re craving a spicy jaunt over to Angel Island or to surf in San Francisco’s legendary Yellow Bluff Tide Race, you’re only a short paddle away from some of the most fun and dynamic advanced water around.
What You’ll See: On the water, you might encounter harbor seals lounging on docks or catch a glimpse of cormorants and pelicans diving for fish. The nearby Marin Headlands provide a dramatic backdrop, perfect for a peaceful paddle or an early morning sunrise tour.
Join our Scenic Sausalito Kayak Tour to get a taste of salty Sausalito.
2. Alameda’s West Side: Quiet Paddling Paradise
Alameda’s West Side features calm waters along the island’s shoreline, making it ideal for beginner paddlers. Formerly a naval air station, the area is now a quiet residential neighborhood with a relaxed vibe and beautiful waterfront.
What You’ll See: Paddlers can enjoy views of the San Francisco skyline and the Bay Bridge, along with the occasional heron or egret hunting in the shallows. Keep an eye out for shorebirds, and, if you’re lucky, you might see a stingray gliding beneath your kayak! For the intrepid paddler, you can venture all the way to sit in awe at the bow of the USS Hornet WWII Warship moored nearby. Or you can paddle over to Crown Beach and enjoy a calm beachfront picnic.
Join Our Scenic Alameda Kayak Tour to explore this hidden gem of a location.
3. Golden Gate Bridge North Tower & Horseshoe Cove: For the Experienced Adventurer
This is one of the most iconic paddling routes on the West Coast, let alone in the Bay Area. Paddlers glide beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, a feat requiring experience or the accompaniment of an instructor, guide and favorable tidal conditions. Horseshoe Cove, nestled at the foot of the Marin Headlands, offers a more sheltered area for paddlers.
History: The Golden Gate Bridge, completed in 1937, is a marvel of engineering and a symbol of San Francisco. Horseshoe Cove was historically used as a military port for Fort Baker.
What You’ll See: Expect jaw-dropping views of the Bridge and San Francisco skyline, with a chance to spot dolphins, seals, sea lions, and often whales. The intense currents here attract an abundance of marine life, making it a thrilling experience for those looking for adventure.
Note: A guide is highly recommended for this trip due to the strong currents and exposure.
Join Our Paddle the Gate Tour as we’re the only company that provides kayaking tours under the Golden Gate Bridge and along the headlands.
4. Angel Island: A Scenic Escape
Angel Island is the largest natural island in San Francisco Bay and is rich in history. Once a Civil War-era military base and later an immigration station, it is now a state park, offering a serene paddling destination with lush landscapes and hiking trails.
What You’ll See: Paddlers can circumnavigate the island, soaking in views of the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city. Wildlife lovers might spot harbor seals, sea lions, and numerous bird species, including hawks and herons. Angel Island also offers plenty of opportunities to land and explore by foot.
Join Our Angel Island Crossing Tour or Angel Island Circumnaviation.
5. Aquatic Park: City Paddling at Its Finest
Located in the heart of San Francisco near Fisherman’s Wharf, Aquatic Park is a haven for kayakers and swimmers alike. The protected cove provides calm waters ideal for beginners.
History: Aquatic Park is part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, showcasing the city’s rich maritime history. Several historic ships are often moored in this park.
What You’ll See: Paddlers can enjoy views of the historic ships moored nearby, along with the bustling cityscape. Seals and sea lions are often spotted here, and on a clear day, you’ll have perfect views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.
6. Berkeley Marina and South Sailing Basin: Perfect for All Skill Levels
The Berkeley Marina offers expansive views of the Bay and easy access to calm waters, making it a popular choice for paddlers of all levels. The Marina, built in the 1930s, remains an active hub for boaters. For those wanting to test their new skills in conditions, afternoon winds blast right at the tip of the point, so you can peek out there to test your skills but duck back in for shelter easily if needed.
What You’ll See: Paddle along the shoreline and enjoy panoramic views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the East Bay Hills. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse avian life, including gulls, terns, and sometimes even migrating pelicans. The Berkeley Pier, extending out into the bay, provides a dramatic backdrop.
Our friends at Cal Adventures can help outfit you to easily get on the water from their South Sailing Basin dock.
7. Crane Cove: South Beach’s Hidden Gem
Located in the Dogpatch neighborhood of San Francisco, the newly renovated Crane Cove offers a paddling destination along the industrial South Beach waterfront. Once a shipbuilding hub, the area has been revitalized as a recreational spot.
What You’ll See: The calm waters of Crane Cove are ideal for paddlers seeking a quieter corner of the city. You’ll pass by historic shipyards and dry docks, with the city skyline looming in the distance. Wildlife is more elusive here, but keep an eye out for seabirds and seals.
Visit our friends at Dogpatch Paddle to easily hop on the water here to explore! Plus, they have a sauna.
Beyond the Bay: Exploring the Greater Bay Area
Tomales Bay: A Nature Lover’s Dream
Located about an hour north of San Francisco, Tomales Bay is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore and offers pristine waters perfect for paddlers. Historically home to the Coast Miwok people, the area remains largely undeveloped, providing a glimpse of the Bay Area’s natural beauty.
What You’ll See: Tomales Bay is known for its abundant wildlife, including harbor seals, bat rays, and a variety of bird species. It’s also one of the best places for bioluminescent paddling, where the water glows with tiny organisms at night. Oysters are farmed in the bay, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy fresh seafood after your paddle.
While Sea Trek doesn’t offer regular tours or rentals to Tomales Bay, we do frequently organize custom youth programs for schools and groups here. For rentals and group tours on Tomales, we recommend our friends at Point Reyes Adventure Co.
Drake’s Estero: Windswept and Remote
Named after Sir Francis Drake, who landed here in 1579, Drake’s Bay is another Point Reyes paddling gem. This remote, wild stretch of coastline offers a more rugged paddling experience, with windswept cliffs and stunning views.
What You’ll See: The area is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including whales during their migration seasons, sea otters, and elephant seals. Paddlers can explore hidden coves and caves along the coastline while enjoying the solitude and natural beauty of the region.
Sign Up for Our Drake’s Estero Full-Day Tour.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle through urban landscapes or an adventurous outing along wild coastlines, the Bay Area has something for every paddler. At Sea Trek, we offer guided tours, classes, and rental options, ensuring you can experience these stunning locations with confidence. Happy paddling!
By Laura Zulliger
Laura leads Partnerships and Marketing for Sea Trek in addition to being an active paddlesports coach in the Bay Area for the past 12 years. For her, even after over 100 trips “Out the Gate,” it never gets old to paddle under the Golden Gate Bridge.
