What to Expect at Alameda Family Paddle Nights
Family Paddle Nights are all about building skills, sharing laughter, and connecting with nature. Whether it's your child's first time on a kayak or you're a seasoned paddler, these evenings provide a relaxed and welcoming way to enjoy the Bay together. This is also a great way to have your child try paddling to see if they would enjoy one of our summer camps! Register with coupon code "kidspaddlefree" to have your children paddle for free!
The Importance of Family Time
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to carve out quality time as a family. Family Paddle Nights offer a rare chance to slow down, unplug from screens, and enjoy each other’s company in a peaceful, natural setting. Being out on the water fosters teamwork, communication, and shared experiences that strengthen family bonds. These simple yet meaningful moments can have lasting impacts on a child’s confidence and sense of belonging. Plus, paddling together is just plain fun!
Spending time in nature as a family has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and encourage a more active lifestyle. Whether you’re watching the sunset from your kayak or laughing as you navigate the marina together, these nights create cherished memories that your family will talk about for years to come.
An Affordable Adventure in Alameda
Looking for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the Bay Area? Family Paddle Nights are one of the most affordable outdoor activities in Alameda! Rather than spending a fortune on entertainment, you can enjoy a full evening of adventure, fresh air, and exercise for a fraction of the cost of other family outings. With kids paddling for free on their first session, it’s a fantastic opportunity to introduce them to water sports in an accessible and welcoming environment.
Event Details:
Program Season: June 3 - August 26
Day & Time: Tuesdays 5:30pm - 8pm
For Kids Ages: 5 - 14 years old
Location: Ballena Bay Marina, Alameda CA
Pricing Details:
Adults: $40 each (per session)
Kids: Free for their first Family Paddle Night with the coupon code "kidspaddlefree" at registration! After the first session, kids are just $10 per child for each additional night.
Make your first paddle night a special one, and if you fall in love with the experience, we’d love to see you back for more adventures. Let’s create memories on the Bay together!
How to Enroll
To ensure a smooth registration process, please follow these steps:
Enroll All Participants: Every adult and child must be registered before completing payment online.
Adding Participants: When filling out the enrollment form, scroll down and select "Add Another Participant" to include all family members.
Finalizing Payment: Double-check that everyone is enrolled before proceeding to payment.
Why Do We Ask for Each Participant to Enroll?
Why is it important to register my entire family?
For safety and emergency preparedness, we need a complete list of all participants to ensure we can account for everyone on the water.
Why do you require names for all participants?
Knowing each participant’s name helps us maintain accurate records, ensure accountability, and create a safer experience for everyone.
How does knowing the headcount help with staffing?
Having an exact number of participants ensures we have the right amount of staff on the water to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.
What Gear Will Gaia Guides Provide for Our Family?
We provide all the essential equipment for a safe and fun evening on the water, including:
Size-appropriate Paddleboards (with fin and leash)
Kayaks
Paddles
Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)
Whether your family is just getting their feet wet or paddling like a pro, the equipment provided is specifically chosen to keep everyone safe, comfortable, and supported. Due to this program being so short, we do not offer wetsuits, so see the information below on how to dress appropriately.
What Should We Bring to Family Paddle Night at Gaia Guides in Alameda?
To make sure your family has everything they need for an evening of paddling, please pack the following:
A large water bottle to stay hydrated
Sunscreen to protect from the sun's rays
A hat for sun protection
Sunglasses with a strap (to keep them from flying off in the wind!)
A towel for after paddling
A swimsuit to wear under your paddling clothes
A long-sleeve rash guard or fleece layer for sun protection or warmth
A warm change of clothes for after the water
A jacket for cooler temperatures (Alameda’s weather can change quickly, so layers are key)
These items will help your family stay comfortable and prepared, no matter what the evening brings. It’s always a good idea to dress in layers, especially since temperatures can shift throughout the evening.
How to Layer for Paddling on Colder Evenings at Gaia Guides Family Paddle Night?
When the temperatures drop, layering is essential to staying warm and comfortable on the water. At Gaia Guides Family Paddle Night, we recommend wearing moisture-wicking base layers to help retain warmth and dry quickly. A fleece-lined top or lightweight synthetic or wool thermal layers work well for insulation.
For added protection, consider wearing windproof and water-resistant outer layers, such as a paddling jacket or rain shell, to block the breeze and keep you dry from any splashes. Neoprene booties or water shoes with wool socks can help keep feet warm in chilly conditions.
Since the San Francisco Bay can be unpredictable, it’s always a good idea to bring an extra layer, such as a warm sweatshirt or dry change of clothes for after your paddle.
How to Layer for Paddling on Warm, Sunny Evenings at Gaia Guides Family Paddle Night?
On warmer days, lightweight, breathable clothing is best for comfort and sun protection. We recommend UV-protective rash guards, quick-drying athletic wear, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap to shield from the sun. Sunglasses with a retainer strap help protect your eyes from glare off the water.
Don’t forget waterproof sunscreen to protect your skin, and bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Even on a breezy evening, the sun’s reflection off the water can be strong, so staying cool and protected ensures an enjoyable paddling experience.
How to Prepare for Changing Weather on San Francisco Bay?
San Francisco Bay weather can shift quickly, with cool foggy evenings, sudden wind gusts, or unexpected temperature drops. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to the conditions as they change.
Even if it feels warm at the start, the evening breeze can bring a chill, especially once the sun sets. Bringing a lightweight jacket or an extra dry layer to put on after paddling can make all the difference in staying comfortable.
Why Avoid Cotton for Paddling?
Cotton absorbs moisture and stays wet, making it a poor choice for paddling. If you get splashed or wet, cotton clothing will hold onto water and can make you feel much colder. Instead, opt for synthetic or wool layers that wick moisture away and dry quickly, keeping you warm and comfortable throughout your adventure.
What Are the Best Shoes for Paddling?
Wearing the right footwear is important for both comfort and safety. You can go paddling with no shoes if you would like. You may want to wear flip-flops, as they easily slip on and off for getting to and from the dock, especially after paddling when you are still wet.
We recommend water shoes, wool socks, or neoprene booties to provide protection and warmth on colder days. You may want to bring a dry pair of shoes or socks to change into after your paddle, especially on cooler evenings.
How We Prioritize Safety on the Water
Safety is always our top priority at Gaia Guides. Every paddler wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for buoyancy and security. Before launching, we ensure proper PFD fit and review basic safety guidelines. By dressing appropriately and being prepared for changing conditions, your family can fully enjoy a safe, fun, and memorable evening on the water!
Ready to Join the Fun?
No experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm! We provide all the equipment, guidance, and good vibes. Whether you’re considering camp for your child or just looking for a fun, active way to spend an evening, Family Paddle Nightsare a great way to experience the joy of paddling together.
We can’t wait to see you on the water this Tuesday!
