Kayak, paddles, life jacket, on-shore instruction & overview. Beach fire permits are required and may be obtained free at park visitor centers. You can also buy phone cases or dry bag from us by placing your order in advance, $25. The sand bar at the mouth of Tomales Bay is notoriously dangerous, with a long history of small-boat accidents. It covers just north of Point Reyes Station up to the town of Tomales, California. Since Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour are designated as Wilderness, motorized watercraft are prohibited year-round. 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. The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Having frequently the most desirable kayaking conditions in the area, this site also provides boat-in access to many public beaches without crossing the bay. Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Join once, enjoy forever. Hobie Mirage-Drive kayaks use a patented mechanism to transmit leg power onto the water, creating a method of propulsion which is far more powerful and efficient. Overnight use of Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour is prohibited. A pit toilet is available. Overnight beach camping is not permitted anywhere else on Tomales Bay or within Point Reyes National Seashore. One must carry one's boat along a short trail approximately 100 meters (110 yards) to the water. adventures and follow local regulations. That makes it a bit difficult to keep track of the attitude of the boat with respect to the camera. For families, we may have the whale boat available depending on weather conditions. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. No Rack? Tomales Bay has rental stations at Inverness and Marshall, each ideal launch points for a morning flat-water paddle in Tomales Bay. Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. Kayaking Day Tours Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. As the wind often increases throughout the day, launching in the morning is typically a safer decision when planning the logistics of your paddle. ), or speak with a ranger. Go to our Camping page if youre interested in boat-in camping. 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. Parking is limited in the Point Reyes area. Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula. Visit recreation.gov or call the Visitor Center at (415) 464-5100 for more information and availability. Tomales Bay is a 24-kilometer (15-mile) long, 2645-hectare (6780-acre) tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. How to get to Marshall: At Point Reyes Station, turn right on Highway 1 and drive 8.4 miles to Marshall and Blue Waters Kayaking at 19225 Shoreline Highway. Use biodegradable soap when possible. There is a fee and permit system for overnight camping on the west side beaches of Tomales Bay (within Point Reyes National Seashore). You can even check out our instructional video on how to load a kayak on your car by clicking HERE. Tour length is normally 3 hours (longer tours available by request) and includes paddling instruction. The best way to witness these amazing animals? As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted on Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay is a 24-kilometer (15-mile) long, 2645-hectare (6780-acre) tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Want to get away for an invigorating outdoorsy vacation? 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 Limantour Estero to boating. 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. 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. A vault toilet is available. Tomales Bay Kayak Tour. One thing th Just north of San Francisco, there's a row of giant Monterey cypress trees that forms a tree tunnel. 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. Land for a picnic. 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. THERE IS NO WATER FOR BOAT IN CAMPERS ON TOMALES BAY, BRING YOUR OWN. The bay is largely bounded on the west by Point Reyes National Seashore. 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. And the next wave tipped me right over one more time. Choose from rooms with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and water views. Recreational use of Tomales Bay has grown in recent years, especially for camping, boating, and wildlife watching. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. Tomales Bay State Park: Heart's Desire Beach. They also offer guided kayaking tours for a cost. They had a demo boat that took all of an hour to convince me. (415) 798-2040. A unique way to experience Tomales Bay is to take a night tour! No overnight use or beach fires. Under the ocean of infinite stars, on the darkest night of Tomales Bay, discover magic in the oceans garden. Be it a picnic, birthday or boat-in camping trip, we believe that every expedition deserves to be crafted to meet the needs of its participants. 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 . Map of Estero closures (299 KB PDF). Tomales Bay State Park is composed of 3 distinct use areas: Heart's Desire - Located at 1100 Pierce Point Road, in Inverness, Heart's Desire is the heart of Tomales Bay State Park. Hearts Desire Beach is on the west side of Tomales Bay off Pierce Point Road. Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. Boil, treat, or filter any water obtained from streams, creeks, springs, etc.. Wittenberg, Olema Valley, Inverness Ridge and Tomales Bay. He is America's first Back Country Sportsman of the Year and the only two-time National Outdoor Writer of the year. 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. 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. Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach Must be comfortable and confident in water with up to 18" wind swell. On-site horse boarding. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. These regions of the peninsula are best known for their natural beauty and diversity in plant and wildlife. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. These can include bioluminescent organisms, nocturnal predators such as owls, and, if the skies are clear, excellent star gazing! Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. Where can I launch my kayak in Tomales Bay? French influence has of course extended to the local cuisine, which is rich in seafood and delectable desserts. Triples also available. In the event of adverse weather conditions, well try our best to reschedule the tour at a later date, rest assured. We offer various kayak rental options from our launch location at the Tomales Bay Resort. Point Reyes Outdoors (415) 663-8192Blue Waters Kayaking (415) 669-2600. 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. Not for beginner kayakers and not recommended for kids under 14 years old. 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. 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. (One person per kayak must have taken the course call 415.669.2600 for availability). This place is known as the Ottawa Valley. Kayak Beautiful Tomales bay and experience the bioluminescence ecology of the bay. Cement boat ramp available. Disclaimer: The National Park Service provides the names, links, and phone numbers of area businesses as a visitor convenience. Turn right and drive 3.8 miles to Point Reyes Petaluma Road. In the event you choose to cancel you will receive a full refund minus the 5% handling fee. 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. Other sections of the coast are kayaked, but they are not as sheltered from the prevailing wind and ocean swell, and are therefore much more dangerous. Campers on Tomales Bay beaches must arrive by boat and may not hike, bike, or ride horses to the beaches. A portable toilet is available. Come see some of Earth's finest creatures with cheery and adventurous new friends. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. Given that good weather often attracts a large volume of paddlers to our area, we recommend making reservations in advance whenever possible. The night can get cold, so dress in layers. Please read A Guide to Low-Impact Boat Camping. We take pride in maintaining the quality of our kayaks and equipment. Menu Close Home; Rentals Open menu. All of our tours are led by guides with years of experience on Tomales Bay. 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. Tom has hiked 25,000 miles, caught world-record fish, led dozens of expeditions and taken part in all phases of the outdoor experience. There is a pit toilet and you must carry your boat along a short trail approximately 100 yards to the water. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. No overnight camping or beach fires. Tandem Kayak - A kayak with two paddlers paddling the same boat. Dog friendly options. If you like beaches, headlands, scenic landscapes, wildflowers, and tons of wildlife viewing, you should give this hike a try. (3) Fitness level : 3. There is a day-use and overnight fee charged. How to get to Inverness: At Point Reyes Station, turn left on Highway 1 and drive 0.8 of a mile (stay on Highway 1 at signed turns) to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Nestled along the west shore of Tomales Bay, it is a popular kayak launch site. 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. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. We look forward to hearing from you. It takes an hour to an hour and a half to get there. Sea Trek Kayak & Stand Up Paddling Center, Sausalito, 415-332-8494. Tomales Bay is a 15-mile long, 6780-acre tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. No dump station. 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. 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. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. 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. Tomales Bay Expeditions, Point Reyes Station, 415-798-2040. (37 Reviews ) Experience one of nature's most spectacular light shows as you paddle through the glowing waters of Tomales Bay during this Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure! Tours leave from multiple locations on Tomales Bay based on tide and weather conditions. Tomales Bay Expeditions now offers rentals of high performance pedal-drive kayaks. We offer kayak expeditions, tours, rentals and special event hosting. 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. We can (and often do) turn away others from that particular date (or trip). (415) 798-2040. 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. ~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.~. From our headquarters in downtown Point Reyes Station, we have everything you need to load up kayaks or SUPs on your vehicle, and this easy process allows you a much wider array of options when exploring Tomales Bay. As you make your way down the trail towards the beach, youll meander al Like camping in remote locations? Some of the Tomales Bay beaches that are open for overnight camping to those who have a current and valid permit are (listed from south to north): Marshall BeachOn the west side of Tomales Bay across from the town of Marshall. Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. When these organisms are moved by waves or by the paddle of a kayak or canoe, the light becomes visible, especially on dark nights. Possession of a glass container within fifteen meters (fifty feet) of any riverbank, lakeshore, or beach, or on the water, or in a vessel is prohibited. With this in mind, we have implemented the following cancellation policy: We attempt in all cases to determine prior to your tour launch if weather will impede your trip. more, Vaulted ceilings, in-room fireplaces, private balconies perched over a lush garden courtyard with views of Black Mountain Point Reyes Station Inn bed & breakfast is a peaceful, romantic retreat just minutes from the heart of the village. 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. Boaters may pull up on the southern edge of the beach to access the restrooms and drinking water. 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. Crescent Tandem Kayak, sit-on-top with elevated, framed single seats. 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. Love oysters? Led by our highly experienced local guides, these 3 hour tours explore the wonders of Tomales Bay after dark. During this time, you will also have the opportunity to seek local knowledge of the area from our experienced staff. However, there are rare occasions where we have launched and weather patterns change suddenly at which time we must return to shore. Restrooms and water available. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour . No Problem! The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. 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. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. MILLER COUNTY PARK (415) 499-6387Also known as Nicks Cove. Please explore responsibly! Indian BeachThis beach is north of Hearts Desire and has a redwood kotca, a traditional Coast Miwok sleeping shelter on it. 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. Our rental fleet consists of open deck double and single kayaks hand selected to match the conditions on the bay. We look forward to hearing from you. Bioluminescence in Tomales Bay is virtually impossible to capture on film, most of the white-blue fluorescent photos seen here where not taken in Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula. This beach has restrooms, so keep that in mind when you head up. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. Reyes. No restrooms or water. Call us today! It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. Come visit our launch location at the northern end of the Tomales Bay Resort in Inverness. They also offer great classes, bioluminescent tours, and suggestions for . It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. After having two horrible, Architectural Plans and 3D Virtual Tours with Matterport. Microscopic, single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates produce and emit light through a chemical reaction process. Need something for your next adventure? 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. Option & Pricing: Select Package & Pricing Option. Learn more steps you can take by visiting the. They are optional based on your comfort. We pedaled to all the beach nearby. Call us today! The island is open on the west side only for day use. Fun getaway from the Bay and a change from the usual car camping or backpacking. 94956. (415) 798-2040. 1 Bear Valley Road At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. In seconds, you will change what you see and transform how you feel. There was one group departing n 2 other campers coming in. One end opens to the wild swells of the Pacific; at the other end is a tidal marsh, fed by the fresh water of the Lagunitas River. [3] The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. The Tomales Bay State Park General Plan. TOMALES BAY RESORT (415) 669-1389The Resort and 62-boat marina are located on the west side of the bay. All boat-in camping permits must be reserved through the National Park Service in advance of booking kayak rentals, and can be obtained at the Bear Valley Visitor Center before your departure. Not yet being able to roll, I had never dared getting close to it. We will use our decades of experience in this area to make sure you have a safe, enlightening and . Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. Winter Kayaking & Birding Tours with David Wimpfheimer: Sundays December 29, 2013 and January 19, 2014. . There is very little shade, so make sure to bring some sunscreen. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. There are a various outfitters who will include rental and guides. From here we offer kayak rentals for walk-ins and by reservation. Orange floats are placed to mark the swimming area during the summer. No overnight use or beach fires. 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.