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. Must be comfortable and confident in water with up to 18" wind swell. As such, all of our tours (especially night tours) are subject to environmental conditions such as tide and weather. We offer various kayak rental options from our launch location at the Tomales Bay Resort. 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. Tomales Bay is a 24-kilometer (15-mile) long, 2645-hectare (6780-acre) tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. 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. 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. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. They also offer great classes, bioluminescent tours, and suggestions for . There is gas, dump station, and boat rentals. 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. Need something for your next adventure? Each patron is responsible to contact the office to make arrangements. Tom Stienstra is the outdoors writer for the San Francisco Chronicle. THERE IS ONLY BACKPACKING AND BOAT IN CAMPING AT POINT REYES- NO CAR OR RV CAMPING DON'T OVERBOOK Kayak camping is a unique way to extend your stay on the water and experience the natural beauty of Tomales Bay by night. Most canoe trippers plan a Noire River canoe route of 5 to 7 days to enjoy the river's best campsites, scenery and whitewater paddling, but shorter trips and day trips are also possible. Tomales Bay is a 15-mile long, 6780-acre tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. Adjacent communities include Point Reyes Station at the head of the bay, Inverness on the west, Marshall on the east, and Dillon Beach at the mouth of Tomales Bay. All of our tours are led by guides with years of experience on Tomales Bay. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. If you time it right and are paddling at night, you'll also get to experience bioluminescence. The only marine Wilderness on the west coast of the continental United States, the esteros (Spanish for estuaries) offer relatively undisturbed habitat for harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and many species of birds and fish. Contacts: Blue Waters Kayaking, (415) 669-2600, www.bwkayak.com. Walk-Ins available from 9-3pm based on availability of boats & parking. They also offer guided kayaking tours for a cost. Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. Campers on Tomales Bay beaches must arrive by boat and may not hike, bike, or ride horses to the beaches. Use biodegradable soap when possible. 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. Reservations may also be made by phone by calling toll free 877-444-6777 (TDD: 877-833-6777). As with most beaches in Point Reyes swimming is not recommended. All very beautiful n deserted. Lawson's Landing's campground and boat launch are located in Dillon Beach with direct access to the north end of Tomales Bay. 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. TOMALES BAY STATE PARK(415) 669-1140The state park provides two access areas to Tomales Bay, Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. This Marin County park has a public boat launch with a cement ramp into the water, in addition to a pier and restrooms. Or, reserve our handcrafted, wooden whale 4-seater boat with a personal guide. for your first email from REI. Point Reyes Station Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. Weve chosen the best dates for July, August, September, and October based on the moons position to ensure the darkest nights. The island is open on the west side only for day use. Loaded our kayak with our gear and fresh oyster we got on the way. There is a fee and permit system for overnight camping on the west side beaches of Tomales Bay (within Point Reyes National Seashore). Wear comfortable synthetic clothes as they dry faster. 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. Instead, take Lucas Valley Road. 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. Potable water is not provided at any of the beaches along Tomales Bay within the National Seashore. Photograph the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. Launching, landing, or operating a remotely operated aircraft (aka "remotely piloted aircraft," "unmanned aircraft," or "drone") from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Point Reyes National Seashore is prohibited. 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 - Beaches are not assigned; campers choose available beaches on a first-come, first-served basis THERE IS POTABLE WATER AT WILDCAT, SKY, GLEN AND COAST CAMP. 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. Contact Tomales Bay Resort for more information at 415-669-1389. Tour length is normally 3 hours (longer tours available by request) and includes paddling instruction. Cancel completely. Turn right (still Point Reyes Petaluma Road) and drive 3.1 miles to Highway 1. Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. Led by our highly experienced local guides, these 3 hour tours explore the wonders of Tomales Bay after dark. No overnight camping or beach fires. Rent top gear from your local REI Co-op. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula. This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (i.e., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc. You can rent a horse more, Encompassing 100 square miles of coastal wilderness, the park offers 80 miles of pristine coastline and over 150 miles of hiking trails. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. more, Two peaceful cottages located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. We schedule these trips during the most ideal viewing conditions. If you have questions or ideas about arranging a paddle or an event, were here to help. Where can I launch my kayak in Tomales Bay? 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. 13 reviews of Tomales Bay Expeditions "I had a GREAT experience going bioluminescent kayaking with Tomales Bay Expeditions. The kayak trip is limited to the darkest nights of the new moon phases in Summer and fall; hence sells out quickly. As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted on Tomales Bay. It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. Boaters may pull up on the southern edge of the beach to access the restrooms and drinking water. With hundreds of marine dinoflagellates assembled in the bay, the collective effect can be magical. ~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.~. And again, I did not go under.I love this boat already, after the very first afternoon! Indian BeachThis beach is north of Hearts Desire and has a redwood kotca, a traditional Coast Miwok sleeping shelter on it. Boil, treat, or filter any water obtained from streams, creeks, springs, etc.. Chicken Ranch Beach is a three-acre natural area adjacent to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.8 km (1.2 miles) north of Inverness. Tandem Kayak - A kayak with two paddlers paddling the same boat. Located to the west of Ottawa, "the Valley" stretches along the Ottawa River from Arnprior up to Deep River and extends . Per the Superintendent's Compendium, the waters within 91 meters (100 yards) of shore are closed to all vessels from Longitude 123 01.00' west to the western end of the headlands below the Point Reyes Lighthouse. When the weather forecast took a turn for the worse leading up to my outing, Cooper and his team were great about . 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. Come see some of Earth's finest creatures with cheery and adventurous new friends. Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay. Not for beginner paddlers. 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. 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. The park is more, A secluded Mediterranean-style bed and breakfast in a quiet pastoral setting looking out on the Inverness Ridge and West Marins beautiful rolling hills youll love the vineyard views, serene koi pond and wine tasting room. Tomales Bay is a hotspot for bioluminescence. Note: All paddlers must be a minimum of 5 years of age and 50 pounds in weight. 415-464-5100 We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. (see below), Reschedule the same trip for a future date (at no cost). Reserve Yours Now! Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. After this time no money will be refunded, Within 7 days (including the day of the event): all cancellations and no shows will be charged in full with no refunds or reschedules unless due to inclement weather. This Marin County park has a public boat launch with cement grade into the water, restrooms, and a pier. Disposing of human waste in the bay or onto park beaches is prohibited. Item #: WAT-SFR-0038. At the end of the tunnel, you'll find the historic RCA/Marconi Station. The best way to witness these amazing animals? In seconds, you will change what you see and transform how you feel. Headlamp with RED light, drinking water, towel, whistle. If you plan to make this an overnight trip, check out Kayak Camping in Pt. Reyes. Tomales Bay Expeditions now offers rentals of high performance pedal-drive kayaks. Overnight use of Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour is prohibited. more, A peaceful, stylish retreat set in four private acres of orchards and open space, Point Reyes Country Inn welcomes guests to spacious, beautifully furnished rooms, gourmet breakfasts and the tranquility of the West Marin countryside. (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. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. We also rent closed deck kayaks if you have taken a recovery course with us or another kayak outfitter. The whaleboat is built to allow light to reflect through the translucent hull. There is a day-use fee and overnight parking requires purchasing a Lawson's Landing campsite. French influence has of course extended to the local cuisine, which is rich in seafood and delectable desserts. 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. Napa Valley Paddle(Inside) Sav Up Crossfit1075 Lakeville St. Petluma, CA 94952, The Bioluminescent Kayak Tour in Tomales Bay. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. TOMALES BAY RESORT (415) 669-1389The Resort and 62-boat marina are located on the west side of the bay. Another area within Point Reyes National Seashore that is sometimes used by kayakers is the open coast. 15% gratuity and 5% Point Reyes National Seashore fee is included in the ticket price. Carry dry bag, waterproof cell phone case, or zip lock bag to protect cell phones, keys and other valuables. Since Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour are designated as Wilderness, motorized watercraft are prohibited year-round. 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. 94956. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. 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. Read A Guide to Low-Impact Boat Camping for more information about camping on the beaches of Tomales Bay and obtaining a permit to do so. Restrooms and water available. Tomales Bay has rental stations at Inverness and Marshall, each ideal launch points for a morning flat-water paddle in Tomales Bay. Crescent Tandem Kayak, sit-on-top with elevated, framed single seats. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. The bay is largely bounded on the west by Point Reyes National Seashore. As you make your way down the trail towards the beach, youll meander al Like camping in remote locations? This place is known as the Ottawa Valley. ), or speak with a ranger. How to get to Point Reyes Station: From the Golden Gate Bridge, take Highway 101 north 16.1 miles to Exit 456 for Lucas Valley Road. Clavey Paddlesports, Petaluma, 707-766-8070. more, Set on a peaceful ten acre farm in Olema, youll love the spacious rooms with views and fireplaces, cooked breakfasts and panoramic views of Mt. 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. On-site horse boarding. Our guided tour will take you through areas where your kayak paddle creates long stretches of glowing bioluminescent for the longest time. Kayak Tomales Bay for amazing views of the Point Reyes National Seashore. And the next wave tipped me right over one more time. What you'll see: A fast, easy way to change your reality is to get into a kayak. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. . Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. No overnight use or beach fires. Beach fires are prohibited on state park beaches. Tomales Bay is a 15-mile long, 6780-acre tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. More Information Coming Soon! 7 days prior to the event: Your reservation is considered final, and all fees are due and payable. We will use our decades of experience in this area to make sure you have a safe, enlightening and . Wittenberg, Olema Valley, Inverness Ridge and Tomales Bay. Tours leave from multiple locations on Tomales Bay based on tide and weather conditions. 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. Fun getaway from the Bay and a change from the usual car camping or backpacking. You can also buy phone cases or dry bag from us by placing your order in advance, $25. We recommend water shoes or strap sandals. We paddled across the bay, subject to scrutiny by . For families, we may have the whale boat available depending on weather conditions. , Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call. It is a critical wildlife habitat, a favorite haul-out for seals, and roosting place for brown pelicans. Located an hour outside of downtown San Francisco, Tomales Bay is ideal for beginners because of its calm waters. This location offers premier access to paddle along the shores of the Tomales Bay State Park and Point Reyes National Seashore. Napa Valley Paddles Bioluminescent kayak touring company offers natures most illuminating light show in the waters of Tomales Bay on the darkest nights of July, August, September, and October, 2023. Contact Tomales Bay State Park for more information at 415-669-1140. 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. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. You must carry your boat approximately 100 yards across a sandy beach. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. You can easily unsubscribe at any time. The inn and marina are located on the west side of the bay. Moderate. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. 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. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. The island is open on the west side only for day use. 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. Outback Adventures, Larkspur, 415-461-2222. Kayaking Day Tours Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. 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. 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. Choose from rooms with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and water views. A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and. It is located on the east side of Tomales Bay off Highway 1, north of the town of Marshall. We pedaled to all the beach nearby. 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. 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 has become well known recently as a great place to see planktonic bioluminescense at night. We searched for bioluminescent but it was hard to see that night even though there was no moon. No overnight use or beach fires. The National Park Service at Point Reyes is concerned about the effects of the growth in recreational use. - 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. Except Saturdays can be very busy. . Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. EMT on-shore with radio. The best way to witness these amazing animals? A unique way to experience Tomales Bay is to take a night tour! Tour Date: March 18th, 2023. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. In 2008, he won first place for best outdoors column in America. Hearts Desire Beach is on the west side of Tomales Bay off Pierce Point Road. Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach (The venue for each class will be wind, weather, and tide dependent.) Bioluminescence is a naturally occurring phenomenon and we cannot guarantee that you will see Bioluminescence. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including shorebirds, elephant seals, and migratory gray whales. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. About. Pit toilets are available, no water. Ocean kayaking is potentially very dangerous. 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. adventures and follow local regulations. Drain water from watercraft, sponges, bailers, and water-containing devices before leaving water access. Call us today! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Adjacent communities include Pt. All reservations are subject to a 5% non-refundable handling fee at the time of booking. Use our quick contact form below and well get back to you a.s.a.p. From here we offer kayak rentals for walk-ins and by reservation. 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. 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. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour, $75 all day. Visit recreation.gov or call the Visitor Center at (415) 464-5100 for more information and availability. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. 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. 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. Restrooms and water available. Timed during the lowest crescent of the moon, and starting around sunset, you will paddle into the sunset and wait until it is completely dark, continuing on around the bay to experience the bio-luminescence nature. Anyone can join and everyone belongs. Tandem kayak, paddle, pre-paddle orientation, two guides per event/group, one headlamp with RED light per boat. Overnight parking is in the upper lot, to the right as you pull in. The sand bar at the mouth of Tomales Bay is notoriously dangerous, with a long history of small-boat accidents. Visit our Your Safety While Boating page for information on preparing for and remaining safe while boating in the Point Reyes area.