Best Kayak and Paddle Board Launch Spots

The East Bay offers some of the best spots to launch your kayak or paddleboard, with access to scenic waterways and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner, these locations provide opportunities to explore beautiful bayfronts, salt marshes, and coastal ecosystems. Here’s a look at some of the best spots for your next adventure.

1. Bayfront Park (Mill Valley)

Location: Mill Valley, CA
Bayfront Park is a fantastic spot to launch your non-motorized watercraft, especially for those who love bird watching. This boat launch provides easy access to Richardson Bay, with ADA accessible facilities, including a gangway leading to a low-freeboard dock. Keep an eye on the tides, though, as low tides can expose extensive mudflats, making the launch challenging.
Wildlife Tips: Look out for heron rookeries and rafting birds, especially in winter. Be mindful of the Ridgway’s rail, which resides in the marshes north of the launch.

Parking & Amenities: Free parking is available, with additional amenities like picnic tables, a dog park, and restrooms at the Mill Valley Sewage Treatment Plant.

Directions: Take the CA-1 exit towards Mill Valley, then follow Miller Avenue, Camino Alto, and Sycamore Avenue to the parking area.

2. Encinal Beach and Boat Launch (Alameda)

Location: Alameda, CA
Encinal Beach offers direct access to the San Francisco Bay from a sandy beach, perfect for beginners. It’s a popular spot with a large parking lot, portable restrooms, and walking paths. This site is often used by local boating groups, such as the Alameda Community Sailing Center and O’Kalani Outrigger Canoe Club.

Wildlife Tips: You might spot harbor seals at nearby haul-out sites and should maintain a distance of 300 feet from them. During summer, the breakwater becomes a major resting site for California brown pelicans.

Safety Tips: The shallow, protected waters of the beach are great for novice paddlers, but once you head out onto the Bay, always be mindful of the tides, currents, and weather.

Parking & Amenities: The large parking lot offers free parking, and ADA accessible facilities are available.

3. Sea Trek at Ballena Bay Marina (Alameda)

Location: Alameda, CA
Sea Trek offers a fantastic paddling experience at Ballena Bay Marina, just a short distance from Alameda’s waterfront. The location offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the nearby islands of Treasure and Yerba Buena. The waters here are typically 5 to 10 degrees warmer than other parts of the Bay, making it a comfortable spot for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Paddlers can easily access Alameda’s Crown Beach, which boasts 2.5 miles of calm, sandy shoreline, perfect for a relaxed paddle with scenic views.

Wildlife Tips: Look out for local seabirds, harbor seals, and other wildlife along the shoreline and in the waters of Ballena Bay.
Safety Tips: The warm, sheltered waters of Ballena Bay offer a great place to practice your paddling skills, but always be aware of weather conditions and tides when heading out further into the Bay.

Parking & Amenities: Sea Trek offers a full range of kayak and paddleboard rentals, lessons, and tours. There’s easy access to parking and amenities, including restrooms and a friendly staff ready to assist you with everything you need for a day on the water.

4. Alviso Marina County Park (San Jose)

Location: San Jose, CA
Alviso Marina is an excellent option for those looking to explore the salt marshes and wildlife of Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The boat launch ramp provides one of the few clear routes through the marshes to the open waters of the Bay. You’ll be surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding mountains and plenty of wildlife.
Wildlife Tips: The park is home to endangered species like the Ridgway’s rail and harbor seals. Be sure to observe all wildlife protection guidelines, maintaining proper distance from sensitive species.

Safety Tips: Be mindful of the mudflats that can become exposed during low tides and use the provided tide charts to plan your trip accordingly.

Parking & Amenities: Two free parking lots are available with boat-trailer-sized spaces. There are also accessible restrooms, picnic tables, and BBQs.

Directions: From Highway 880, take the Highway 237 exit and head toward North First Street, following signs to the park.

A Few More Things to Keep in Mind:

• Wildlife Protection: Always respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance. Disturbing animals like harbor seals or migratory birds can have serious consequences.

• Tides & Currents: Be aware of tides and currents, which can change quickly and pose safety risks. Always check tide charts before heading out.

• Safety First: Carry proper safety gear, especially for longer or more challenging paddling routes. And, if you’re new to paddling, consider starting in the calmer, protected areas before venturing out into open waters.

These East Bay locations offer fantastic opportunities to explore the Bay Area’s natural beauty by kayak or paddleboard. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or an adventure into wildlife-rich marshes, there’s a spot that’s perfect for you. Enjoy the paddle!