Enjoy one of the most outstanding kayaking destinations in Northern California. The Tomales Bay is a protected bay located a short distance from the City of San Francisco. The bay offers a thousand of acres of water and outdoor recreational opportunities to enjoy. The large open expanse of water lends itself well to all types of boating activities, including water and jet skiing, SUP paddling, windsurfing, sailing, personal watercraft and power boating.

Kayakers can plan on a nonstop adventure at this delightful paddling retreat. During the early morning hours, as the sun rises over the hillsides, perfect reflections of the surrounding terrain are cast onto the bay’s glassy water surface.

The Point Reyes area is famous for its scenic beaches, and wildlife abounds in this spectacular setting. Colorful sea stars float beneath your kayak as magnificent elk wander the hillsides. You can explore secluded coves, watch birds soar above your head, and catch fish swimming in the surrounding water.

After an invigorating paddle, you can take a refreshing swim, or savor a tasty picnic on one of the four small beaches in the state park on the west side of the bay. Kayakers can pull ashore on these beaches to grab a bite to eat, but fires and overnight camping are not permitted in the state park beach areas. If you plan to have a beach fire on national seashore beaches, stop by national park visitor centers for a free required permit. Hog Island is in the northern section of Tomales Bay, across from Whites Gulch on the west side and Nicks Cove on the east side. The island is open on the west side only for day use.

Map of Tomales Bay

  
 
 
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