), or speak with a ranger. Overnight beach camping is not permitted anywhere else on Tomales Bay or within Point Reyes National Seashore. Headlamp with RED light, drinking water, towel, whistle. Use our quick contact form below and well get back to you a.s.a.p. Tandem Kayak - A kayak with two paddlers paddling the same boat. (2 kayaks or 3 SUPs can fit on top of any vehicle.) The kayak trip is limited to the darkest nights of the new moon phases in Summer and fall; hence sells out quickly. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Want to get away for an invigorating outdoorsy vacation? At Tomales Bay Expeditions safety is our top priority; conditions on Tomales Bay can vary and we call on our years of experience to determine the best times and places to paddle. As with most beaches in Point Reyes swimming is not recommended. And the next wave tipped me right over one more time. Reyes. If you need to rent a kayak, Blue Waters has you covered! As such, it is important to minimize our impacts and Leave No Trace of our visits to Tomales Bay and Point Reyes National Seashore. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour, $75 all day. Take Away Day Trip Launching Destinations, All Take Away Rentals meet from our NEW HEADQUARTERS next to the gas station in Point Reyes Station (11401 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956), Please Note: For all kayak rentals children must be at least 5 years old and weigh minimum 50 lbs. Map of Hog Island closure (98 KB PDF). We set up camp while enjoying freshly shucked oysters and music from our waterproof speaker. 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. Contact Tomales Bay Resort for more information at 415-669-1389. Photograph the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes. No overnight use or beach fires. 15% gratuity and 5% Point Reyes National Seashore fee is included in the ticket price. for your first email from REI. Since Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour are designated as Wilderness, motorized watercraft are prohibited year-round. If you wash dishes, be aware that all soaps can adversely affect water. The Tomales Bay State Park General Plan. This Marin County park has a public boat launch with a cement ramp into the water, in addition to a pier and restrooms. There is a pit toilet and you must carry your boat along a short trail approximately 100 yards to the water. Except Saturdays can be very busy. Carpooling saves money, space, and the environment! There is a boat launch fee plus a parking fee. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Note: The best access point for a walk or to fish from shore is off Point Reyes Petaluma Road. Since the Titan comes with so much primary and secondary stability, I took the plunge last weekend. Restrooms and water available. There are a various outfitters who will include rental and guides. It is usually seen as sparkles or a glow around anything which disturbs the water Paddle strokes, the wake of a kayak or even a fish will leave a beautiful trail of light. Must be comfortable and confident in water with up to 18" wind swell. Rinse watercraft, trailer, and equipment with high pressure hot water, when possible. Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. Located an hour outside of downtown San Francisco, Tomales Bay is ideal for beginners because of its calm waters. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. The best way to witness these amazing animals? Call us today! Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. Visit our Kayaking Around Point Reyes National Seashore page . 415-464-5100 THERE IS ONLY BACKPACKING AND BOAT IN CAMPING AT POINT REYES- NO CAR OR RV CAMPING DON'T OVERBOOK Beach fire permits are required and may be obtained free at park visitor centers. (, 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. 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. 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. (415) 798-2040. It requires additional skills, experience, and equipment, and is not recommended for most kayakers. Kayak trips offer chance to see bioluminescence on Tomales Bay Marshall Beach Trail is an out-and-back trail that provides a good opportunity to see wildlife located near Inverness, California. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. Option & Pricing: Select Package & Pricing Option. Nestled along the west shore of Tomales Bay, Chicken Ranch Beach County Park is a three-acre natural area adjacent to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.8 km (1.2 miles) north of Inverness. My next kayaking venture was a July 4th morning tour of Tomales Bay, hosted by Clavey. Contact Lawson's Landing for more information at 707-878-2443. Tours leave from multiple locations on Tomales Bay based on tide and weather conditions. hoping to witness the phenomenon before winter weather ended bioluminescent viewing season and made nighttime trips too dangerous. Orange floats are placed to mark the swimming area during the summer. MILLER COUNTY PARK (415) 499-6387Also known as Nicks Cove. Kayaking Day Tours Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and. We can (and often do) turn away others from that particular date (or trip). As part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay is a bit secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city. Walk, boat, or bike to explore Point Reyes National Seashore from your front door. Off-site rentals, $75 all day on weekdays, $115 on weekends. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. Call us today! You get a winding route through redwoods at one point, and then near Nicasio past hardwoods. In the morning, we saw hammer sharks, rays swimming in the water while enjoying our breakfast. No camping, overnight parking, or beach fires. 2. 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. (see below), Reschedule the same trip for a future date (at no cost). Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. Reservations may be made online at Recreation.gov. Tom has hiked 25,000 miles, caught world-record fish, led dozens of expeditions and taken part in all phases of the outdoor experience. 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. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. So the camera was sitting too loose and thus was knocked over by the same waves that tipped me. 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 newsletter sign-up system is currently down for maintenance. As the wind often increases throughout the day, launching in the morning is typically a safer decision when planning the logistics of your paddle. 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. About. 2 2.5 hours of Paddle time. We are a small, locally owned company which prides ourselves in our experience, depth of knowledge and connection to our home. Kayak Beautiful Tomales bay and experience the bioluminescence ecology of the bay. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. In the event of adverse weather conditions, well try our best to reschedule the tour at a later date, rest assured. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. Tours - Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California more, Vaulted ceilings, in-room fireplaces, private balconies perched over a lush garden courtyard with views of Black Mountain Point Reyes Station Inn bed & breakfast is a peaceful, romantic retreat just minutes from the heart of the village. 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. Join once, enjoy forever. You can easily unsubscribe at any time. It is a critical wildlife habitat, a favorite haul-out for seals, and roosting place for brown pelicans. 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. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. Turn right and drive 3.8 miles to Point Reyes Petaluma Road. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour . His books have sold more than 1 million copies. Kayaking Around Petaluma - Dave's Raves The National Park Service at Point Reyes is concerned about the effects of the growth in recreational use. Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? 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. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay Expeditions, Point Reyes Station, 415-798-2040. Triples also available. A narrow inlet that's about 15 miles long, Tomales Bay separates Point Reyes and the Marin Coastline. Kayak Tomales Bay for amazing views of the Point Reyes National Seashore. The National Park Service at Point Reyes is concerned about the effects of the growth in recreational use. PFDs and paddles are included with each rental. Walk-Ins available from 9-3pm based on availability of boats & parking. On Tomales Bay, there are vault toilets at Marshall Beach and Tomales Beach. Always check the weather and marine forecasts before kayaking, canoeing, boating, etc. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Anyone can join and everyone belongs. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. The night can get cold, so dress in layers. Just follow Pierce Point Road until you see the sign to the beach. Watch especially for tides and currents in this area. There is a fee and permit system for overnight camping within Point Reyes National Seashore, including camping on the beaches on the westside of Tomales Bay north of Tomales Bay State Park's northern boundary. Wear comfortable synthetic clothes as they dry faster. No Rack? Ahoy Boaters & Kayakers! Water and restrooms are available at the beach. As you venture west, you pass through Lucas Valley, then rise up and over a sub-ridge and onward amid pretty foothills. more, Tomales Bay Resort is located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay State Park 7 days prior to the event: Your reservation is considered final, and all fees are due and payable. On-site horse boarding. 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. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. Point Reyes Outdoors (415) 663-8192Blue Waters Kayaking (415) 669-2600. Bioluminescence is a naturally occurring phenomenon and we cannot guarantee that you will see Bioluminescence. Tomales Bay has rental stations at Inverness and Marshall, each ideal launch points for a morning flat-water paddle in Tomales Bay. ~If you are on a phone and having trouble viewing this map, click on the icon in the upper right hand corner of the map to view this map on Google Maps.~. Kayaking - Point Reyes Lodging It is off Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) north of Inverness. This place is known as the Ottawa Valley. His first novel, "The Sweet Redemption, An Inspector Korg Mystery," was released for 2013. Dog friendly options. Another area within Point Reyes National Seashore that is sometimes used by kayakers is the open coast. 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. More Information Coming Soon! If you time it right and are paddling at night, you'll also get to experience bioluminescence. One thing th Just north of San Francisco, there's a row of giant Monterey cypress trees that forms a tree tunnel. It takes an hour to an hour and a half to get there. Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. The area is world-renowned for bioluminescence tours in California. Item #: WAT-SFR-0038. . As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted on Tomales Bay. 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. We look forward to hearing from you. All reservations are subject to a 5% non-refundable handling fee at the time of booking. Bring your own fresh water for cooking and drinking, as there are few water sources emptying into the bay on the west side. Suggested put-in points include Lac St Patrice/Forant Bridge (110 km, 7 days) and Lac Raymond (75 km, 5 days). Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. At Tomales Bay Expeditions our goal is to ensure that your experience on the water is both safe and satisfying. Tomales Bay is a 15-mile long, 6780-acre tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. Tomales Bay Expeditions offers specialized, small scale kayaking tours and rentals on the beautiful Tomales Bay. It is located on the east side of Tomales Bay off Highway 1, north of the town of Marshall. The beautiful granite cliffs and white sandy beaches of the Tomales Bay State Park & the Point Reyes National Seashore make the perfect destination to explore. 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? Tomales Bay - Hipcamp Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Pit toilets are available, no water. Quebec Kayaking & Camping Trips with Sea Kayak Adventures 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. [3] Tandem kayak, paddle, pre-paddle orientation, two guides per event/group, one headlamp with RED light per boat. more, Two peaceful cottages located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. If you plan to make this an overnight trip, check out Kayak Camping in Pt. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. 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. Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach He is America's first Back Country Sportsman of the Year and the only two-time National Outdoor Writer of the year. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. 3 hours total: 30 minutes for on-shore instruction, overview, and life vests and paddle fitting. They provided everything we needed and included some basic how-to-kayak instruction. Each patron is responsible to contact the office to make arrangements. 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. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. They are optional based on your comfort. Fun getaway from the Bay and a change from the usual car camping or backpacking. There is gas, dump station, and boat rentals. Tomales Bay is the body of water that separates Point Reyes and the Marin coastline. Reserve Yours Now! The best paddle here is the easy trip to the southern end of Tomales Bay, a wetlands area excellent for sighting shorebirds and waterfowl. Please check in at the Bear Valley Visitor Center prior to a trip in order to get updated information on closures or conditions. A vault toilet is available. That year he was also awarded as Far West Ski Writer of the Year. Our guided tour will take you through areas where your kayak paddle creates long stretches of glowing bioluminescent for the longest time. We rented our kayak from Blue Water, very friendly people. If you have questions or ideas about arranging a paddle or an event, were here to help. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. 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. 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. Whether you plan to spend a few hours or a few days on the bay, this is a great starting point. Hobie Mirage-Drive kayaks use a patented mechanism to transmit leg power onto the water, creating a method of propulsion which is far more powerful and efficient. We recommend water shoes or strap sandals. Choose from rooms with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and water views. Cement boat ramp available. Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. Are there sharks in tomales bay? - mswakf.afphila.com Moderate. Disposing of human waste in the bay or onto park beaches is prohibited. Plenty of car parking is available for guests. 12948 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, And again, I did not go under.I love this boat already, after the very first afternoon! Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. Miller Boat Launch is located on the east side of Tomales Bay along Highway 1 just north of Nick's Cove, which is ~6.5 km (~4 mi) north of the town of Marshall. When the weather forecast took a turn for the worse leading up to my outing, Cooper and his team were great about . The inn and marina are located on the west side of the bay. Motorized vessels are prohibited within 100 of the swim area markers. Napa Valley Paddle(Inside) Sav Up Crossfit1075 Lakeville St. Petluma, CA 94952, The Bioluminescent Kayak Tour in Tomales Bay. However, there are rare occasions where we have launched and weather patterns change suddenly at which time we must return to shore. The General Plan establishes the long-range vision for the park and recommends how to protect and improve the park's natural, cultural, and recreational values . Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. We offer kayak expeditions, tours, rentals and special event hosting. There are stunning National Parks, spectacular mountains, free-flowing rivers and at the center of our adventure, the glacial-carved Saguenay Fjord. Kayaking Around Point Reyes National Seashore Hearts Desire Beach is on the west side of Tomales Bay off Pierce Point Road. We offer various kayak rental options from our launch location at the Tomales Bay Resort. 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,. It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. 12948 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, There is a day-use and overnight fee charged. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. 9 Cool Things to Do in Tomales Bay, California (Monday through Friday reservations available by ADVANCED RESERVATION $800 Minimum) Hearts Desire Beach is in our opinion, one of the best launching locations on Tomales Bay. Point Reyes has a thriving artist community, lively music scene and plenty of one of a kind shopping opportunities. Kayaking on Tomales Bay - SFGATE Group First Aid Kit - Contents include wound care items and over the counter medications for minor injuries and illnesses. If you are in the Bay Area, check out California Canoe \u0026 Kayak in Oakland. The whaleboat is built to allow light to reflect through the translucent hull. (415) 798-2040. Check with the Seashore reservation office. In the event you choose to cancel you will receive a full refund minus the 5% handling fee. It's an easy hike downfrom the parking lot. 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. Promptly was tipped over by a wave, and -- believe it or not -- managed the first successful high brace. Indian BeachThis beach is north of Hearts Desire and has a redwood kotca, a traditional Coast Miwok sleeping shelter on it. 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. We also rent closed deck kayaks if you have taken a recovery course with us or another kayak outfitter. 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. Outfitters and Tours - Point Reyes National - National Park Service Not yet being able to roll, I had never dared getting close to it. 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. Even though white sharks visit the waters near the mouths of Tomales Bay and Drakes Estero, the chances of being attacked by a white shark is extremely small. The bay is largely bounded on the west by Point Reyes National Seashore. Wittenberg, Olema Valley, Inverness Ridge and Tomales Bay. The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. No overnight use or beach fires. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. PlayCleanGo Stop Invasive Species In Your Tracks. From the quiet calm of a kayak gliding along the bay. A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and pretty chaotic, unpredictable conditions there.