There is a day-use and overnight fee charged. Given that good weather often attracts a large volume of paddlers to our area, we recommend making reservations in advance whenever possible. Note: All paddlers must be a minimum of 5 years of age and 50 pounds in weight. It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. Where can I launch my kayak in Tomales Bay? Please read A Guide to Low-Impact Boat Camping. THERE IS NO WATER FOR BOAT IN CAMPERS ON TOMALES BAY, BRING YOUR OWN. 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. So the camera was sitting too loose and thus was knocked over by the same waves that tipped me. It is the emission of light by microorganisms undersea called marine dinoflagellate or plankton. 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. 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. We rented our kayak from Blue Water, very friendly people. 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. If you are in the Bay Area, check out California Canoe \u0026 Kayak in Oakland. A portable toilet is available. Start at the Tomales Point Trailhead near the Historic Pierce Point Ranch. Rinse watercraft, trailer, and equipment with high pressure hot water, when possible. Our rental fleet consists of open deck double and single kayaks hand selected to match the conditions on the bay. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. , Blue Gum BeachThere will be seasonal closures on this beach to protect harbor seal pupping. 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. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. 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 . Point Reyes Station When the weather forecast took a turn for the worse leading up to my outing, Cooper and his team were great about . Tandem Kayak - A kayak with two paddlers paddling the same boat. Must be comfortable and confident in water with up to 18" wind swell. The best way to witness these amazing animals? These regions of the peninsula are best known for their natural beauty and diversity in plant and wildlife. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. 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. What you'll see: A fast, easy way to change your reality is to get into a kayak. Rent top gear from your local REI Co-op. The night can get cold, so dress in layers. Go to our Camping page if youre interested in boat-in camping. Kayak Beautiful Tomales bay and experience the bioluminescence ecology of the bay. Refund available for reservations cancelled up to 14-days prior to your tour date; $35/cancellation fee applies. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. If you observe drone use in other National Park Service areas or if you find photographs or videos online or elsewhere that were illegally taken within National Park Service areas from drones, you can report the violation to the National Park Service tip line at 888-653-0009 or by email. 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. Sea Trek Kayak & Stand Up Paddling Center, Sausalito, 415-332-8494. Walk, boat, or bike to explore Point Reyes National Seashore from your front door. 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. A pit toilet is available for use. 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. Disclaimer: The National Park Service provides the names, links, and phone numbers of area businesses as a visitor convenience. No restrooms or water. Located to the west of Ottawa, "the Valley" stretches along the Ottawa River from Arnprior up to Deep River and extends . We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. One must carry one's boat along a short trail and across sand (and maybe mud at low tide) 100 meters (110 yards) or more to the water's edge. 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! Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. He was the fourth living member inducted into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame. If camping on other beaches, you are required to pack out all human waste using a portable toilet or similar commercially designed waste disposal containers that can be emptied into an RV dump station or pit toilet, or a GO anywhere toilet kit (formerly sold as WAG Bags). This post covers things to do in Tomales Bay along Highway 1, excluding Point Reyes. Tom Stienstra is the outdoors writer for the San Francisco Chronicle. About. The inn and marina are located on the west side of the bay. Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Headlamp with RED light, drinking water, towel, whistle. Come see some of Earth's finest creatures with cheery and adventurous new friends. Parking is limited in the Point Reyes area. Hearts Desire Beach is on the west side of Tomales Bay off Pierce Point Road. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. 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. Contacts: Blue Waters Kayaking, (415) 669-2600, www.bwkayak.com. Tomales Bay is a hotspot for bioluminescence. We offer various kayak rental options from our launch location at the Tomales Bay Resort. Wittenberg, Olema Valley, Inverness Ridge and Tomales Bay. If you plan to make this an overnight trip, check out Kayak Camping in Pt. Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? A narrow inlet that's about 15 miles long, Tomales Bay separates Point Reyes and the Marin Coastline. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. Reservations may also be made by phone by calling toll free 877-444-6777 (TDD: 877-833-6777). Map of Hog Island closure (98 KB PDF), Kayaking and canoeing are also permitted on Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour from July 1 through February 28. Weve chosen the best dates for July, August, September, and October based on the moons position to ensure the darkest nights. Be extremely cautious with getting into the water. The directions are set for Miller Boat Launch in Marshall, but if you choose an outfitter to with they'll select a launch site for you. We recommend water shoes or strap sandals. Kayak Tomales Bay for amazing views of the Point Reyes National Seashore. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. Learn more about dinoflagellates and bioluminescence. Always check the weather and marine forecasts before kayaking, canoeing, boating, etc. more information on current conditions Don't Move Firewood: Buy it where you burn it. The best paddle here is the easy trip to the southern end of Tomales Bay, a wetlands area excellent for sighting shorebirds and waterfowl. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. 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. (see below), Reschedule the same trip for a future date (at no cost). No overnight use or beach fires. If you like beaches, headlands, scenic landscapes, wildflowers, and tons of wildlife viewing, you should give this hike a try. Clavey Paddlesports, Petaluma, 707-766-8070. Indian BeachThis beach is north of Hearts Desire and has a redwood kotca, a traditional Coast Miwok sleeping shelter on it. You can also buy phone cases or dry bag from us by placing your order in advance, $25. The road opens up as you pass Nicasio Reservoir (full right now) on the left. I worked with them to organize two trips out on the bay during September's new moon. Please wait until you are in West Marin before purchasing fire wood. PlayCleanGo Stop Invasive Species In Your Tracks. Off-site rentals, $75 all day on weekdays, $115 on weekends. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. 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'. 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. No overnight use or beach fires. Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. We offer kayak expeditions, tours, rentals and special event hosting. Overnight beach camping is not permitted anywhere else on Tomales Bay or elsewhere within Point Reyes National Seashore. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. The drive: The prettiest route avoids Sunday traffic and is only a few minutes longer than the main drag of Sir Francis Drake west of San Rafael. 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. Call us today! Here you will find the parks Ranger Station, Heart's Desire Beach, Vista Point Picnic Area, and hiking trails to Indian Beach, Pebble Beach, and Shell Beach. We schedule these trips during the most ideal viewing conditions. Note: The best access point for a walk or to fish from shore is off Point Reyes Petaluma Road. Contact the National Seashore's camping desk at 415-464-5100 x2 x5 if you have any specific questions about overnight camping on Tomales Bay. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. With hundreds of marine dinoflagellates assembled in the bay, the collective effect can be magical. Contact Lawson's Landing for more information at 707-878-2443. Tomales Bay has become well known recently as a great place to see planktonic bioluminescense at night. Tomales Bay Expeditions, Point Reyes Station, 415-798-2040. Shane C. said: I truly can't say enough about this place! Learn more steps you can take by visiting the. Kayak Tomales Bay for amazing views of the Point Reyes National Seashore. Motorized vessels are prohibited within 100 of the swim area markers. 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. The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. Ahoy Boaters & Kayakers! (3) Fitness level : 3. Fun getaway from the Bay and a change from the usual car camping or backpacking. There is likely underwater currents that can be very dangerous. A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. French influence has of course extended to the local cuisine, which is rich in seafood and delectable desserts. 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. 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. For families, we may have the whale boat available depending on weather conditions. This Marin County park has a public boat launch with cement grade into the water, restrooms, and a pier. Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula. More Information Coming Soon! Tomales Bay Expeditions now offers rentals of high performance pedal-drive kayaks. A unique way to experience Tomales Bay is to take a night tour! If you want to get to know this area like a local there is no better way then to book a guided tour with us! The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. PFDs and paddles are included with each rental. Restrooms and water available. In this case the following policies apply and each patron is responsible to contact the office to make arrangements. We look forward to hearing from you. Whether you plan to spend a few hours or a few days on the bay, this is a great starting point. Adjacent communities include Pt. Call us today! From here we offer kayak rentals for walk-ins and by reservation. As with most beaches in Point Reyes swimming is not recommended. There is a day-use fee and overnight-use fee. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. Since Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour are designated as Wilderness, motorized watercraft are prohibited year-round. Blue Waters Kayaking and Hiking, Point Reyes Station, 415-669-2600. 3 hours total: 30 minutes for on-shore instruction, overview, and life vests and paddle fitting. As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted 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. As part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay is a bit secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city. (415) 798-2040. Take only pictures; leave only footprints. 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. ~~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. 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. All rentals subject to availability. Start from Petaluma: 20 Miles, 30 Minutes, Start From Napa: 45 Miles, 1Hr 15 Minutes. 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. They are optional based on your comfort. more, Two peaceful cottages located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. Overnight use of Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour is prohibited. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. 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. Crescent Tandem Kayak, sit-on-top with elevated, framed single seats. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. Moderate. Turn right and drive 3.8 miles to Point Reyes Petaluma Road. 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. No overnight parking is permitted. Tour length is normally 3 hours (longer tours available by request) and includes paddling instruction. As you venture west, you pass through Lucas Valley, then rise up and over a sub-ridge and onward amid pretty foothills. That year he was also awarded as Far West Ski Writer of the Year. Tomales Bay Kayak Tour. Orange floats are placed to mark the swimming area during the summer. It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. . Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. Reyes. ~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.~. The bay is largely bounded on the west by Point Reyes National Seashore. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including shorebirds, elephant seals, and migratory gray whales. (, 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. 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. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Promptly was tipped over by a wave, and -- believe it or not -- managed the first successful high brace. Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. Under the ocean of infinite stars, on the darkest night of Tomales Bay, discover magic in the oceans garden. Lawson's Landing's campground and boat launch are located in Dillon Beach with direct access to the north end of Tomales Bay. He is America's first Back Country Sportsman of the Year and the only two-time National Outdoor Writer of the year. Tomales Bay Day Rentals; Tomales Bay Camping All of our tours are led by guides with years of experience on Tomales Bay. 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. Land for a picnic. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour .