No overnight camping or beach fires. Call us today! Tomales Bay Expeditions now offers rentals of high performance pedal-drive kayaks. With opportunities to view the sunset and bioluminescence from your campsite, its no wonder our 24 and 48 hour rentals are two of our most sought after options. Disposing of human waste in the bay or onto park beaches is prohibited. We can (and often do) turn away others from that particular date (or trip). Overnight parking and camping is not allowed in the state park. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. 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. All rentals subject to availability. 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. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. 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. Another area within Point Reyes National Seashore that is sometimes used by kayakers is the open coast. There is a day use fee and overnight use fee. 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. Carry dry bag, waterproof cell phone case, or zip lock bag to protect cell phones, keys and other valuables. Led by our highly experienced local guides, these 3 hour tours explore the wonders of Tomales Bay after dark. Located in the historic village of Inverness, minutes from restaurants and Point Reyes National Seashore, youll enjoy exceptional privacy, tranquility and unmatched views of the bay. Not for beginner paddlers. Use our quick contact form below and well get back to you a.s.a.p. No overnight use or beach fires. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. Kayak, paddles, life jacket, on-shore instruction & overview. It is off Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) north of Inverness. 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. Come see some of Earth's finest creatures with cheery and adventurous new friends. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. For families, we may have the whale boat available depending on weather conditions. After having two horrible, Architectural Plans and 3D Virtual Tours with Matterport. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. If you are in the Bay Area, check out California Canoe \u0026 Kayak in Oakland. Other temporary or seasonal closures may be in effect at different times due to breeding populations of marine mammals, shorebirds, or seabirds. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. Learn more about dinoflagellates and bioluminescence. The most frequently used section of the coast by kayakers is in Drakes Bay from Chimney Rock to Limantour Beach. (415) 798-2040. 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. If you have questions or ideas about arranging a paddle or an event, were here to help. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. 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! This often involves considerable work on our part to make sure that the right equipment is ready for you at the right place and time. No Rack? Photograph the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes. Hearts Desire Beach is on the west side of Tomales Bay off Pierce Point Road. There is no charge for rescheduling during this time period. Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. The road opens up as you pass Nicasio Reservoir (full right now) on the left. Tomales Bay is a hotspot for bioluminescence. The group of twelve doubled up into tandem kayaks and set out from Nick's Cove, across the bay, around Hog Island and Duck Island and back, a four hour trip. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. 94956. 415-464-5100 No Problem! All reservations are subject to a 5% non-refundable handling fee at the time of booking. Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. Clean off visible aquatic plants, animals, and mud from your watercraft, gear, paddles, floats, ropes, anchors, dip nets, and trailer before leaving water access. Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. Carpooling saves money, space, and the environment! A portable toilet is available. Tour length is normally 3 hours (longer tours available by request) and includes paddling instruction. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. The paddle, Part 2: At Marshall, on the east side of Tomales Bay, arrive early, before the wind comes up, and enjoy the morning flat-water trip across the bay to the western shore at Point Reyes National Seashore. ), or speak with a ranger. On Tomales Bay, there are vault toilets at Marshall Beach and Tomales Beach. 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. THERE IS ONLY BACKPACKING AND BOAT IN CAMPING AT POINT REYES- NO CAR OR RV CAMPING DON'T OVERBOOK Watch this short PSA from the Seabird Protection Network to learn about California's amazing seabirds and how you can help marine wildlife while enjoying the beautiful coast! Tours leave from various locations depending on tidal conditions. 15% gratuity and 5% Point Reyes National Seashore fee is included in the ticket price. In seconds, you will change what you see and transform how you feel. It's going to be so much fun! This is a guided, night time paddle often in pitch black darkness. An active resort for all ages with onsite beaches, kayak rentals, boat launch, swimming pool, and restaurant. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. 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. Except Saturdays can be very busy. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour . Tomales Bay is the body of water that separates Point Reyes and the Marin coastline. Please read A Guide to Low-Impact Boat Camping. The kayak trip is limited to the darkest nights of the new moon phases in Summer and fall; hence sells out quickly. Overnight beach camping is not permitted anywhere else on Tomales Bay or within Point Reyes National Seashore. Moderate. His television show on CBS/CW won first place as America's best outdoor recreation show, and his radio show on CBS won first place in 2010 for best environmental feature show in America. There is very little shade, so make sure to bring some sunscreen. His books have sold more than 1 million copies. THERE IS NO WATER FOR BOAT IN CAMPERS ON TOMALES BAY, BRING YOUR OWN. 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. All very beautiful n deserted. Nestled along the west shore of Tomales Bay, it is a popular kayak launch site. 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. Our guided tour will take you through areas where your kayak paddle creates long stretches of glowing bioluminescent for the longest time. , 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. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. The area is world-renowned for bioluminescence tours in California. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. Join once, enjoy forever. 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. 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. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. more, Perfect for couples or families who want privacy and the comforts of home this lovely two bedroom cottage is walking distance to the charming historic village center of Olema and nearby trails. Our rental fleet consists of open deck double and single kayaks hand selected to match the conditions on the bay. Beach fire permits are required and may be obtained free at park visitor centers. Follow the trail for roughly three miles. Reserve Yours Now! 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. hoping to witness the phenomenon before winter weather ended bioluminescent viewing season and made nighttime trips too dangerous. 1 Bear Valley Road These guys were exceedingly polite, professional, and communicative. MARSHALL, CA. 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'. 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. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. and the other 3 hours are spent learning as you paddle along the beautiful coastline of the Tomales Bay State Park or the Point Reyes National Seashore. Tomales Bay Expeditions are available year around and our schedules fill quickly, so why not register today? Walk, boat, or bike to explore Point Reyes National Seashore from your front door. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Great, personable service, too!For the record: The yell I emitted after the first capsize is a traditional Bavarian expression of joy, along the lines of: \"I did it!\".For the record 2: The ball mount for the camera had cracked that same day. Blue Waters Kayaking and Hiking, Point Reyes Station, 415-669-2600. If you decide to cancel, it can be difficult for us to book someone else on that trip, and in some cases may cause a trip to be cancelled due to the effect on minimum group size requirements. Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Boil, treat, or filter any water obtained from streams, creeks, springs, etc.. 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. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. Triples also available. We rented our kayak from Blue Water, very friendly people. Refund available for reservations cancelled up to 14-days prior to your tour date; $35/cancellation fee applies. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. Turn left on Point Reyes Petaluma Road and drive 3 miles (past Nicasio Reservoir) to a stop sign and junction (Platform Bridge Road on left). Or, reserve our handcrafted, wooden whale 4-seater boat with a personal guide. Plenty of car parking is available for guests. Point Reyes Outdoors (415) 663-8192Blue Waters Kayaking (415) 669-2600. Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? Tomales Bay is a 24-kilometer (15-mile) long, 2645-hectare (6780-acre) tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. We take pride in maintaining the quality of our kayaks and equipment. 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 easily unsubscribe at any time. Each patron is responsible to contact the office to make arrangements. We look forward to hearing from you. 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. We pedaled to all the beach nearby. This place is known as the Ottawa Valley. Tandem Kayak - A kayak with two paddlers paddling the same boat. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. 3 hours total: 30 minutes for on-shore instruction, overview, and life vests and paddle fitting. Kayak camping is a unique way to extend your stay on the water and experience the natural beauty of Tomales Bay by night. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. Medium rigor. Restrooms and water available. Only 24 Spots are Available. 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. 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. Tomales Bay Expeditions, Point Reyes Station, 415-798-2040. Under the ocean of infinite stars, on the darkest night of Tomales Bay, discover magic in the oceans garden. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including shorebirds, elephant seals, and migratory gray whales. 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. The newsletter sign-up system is currently down for maintenance. If you plan to have a. Overnight beach camping is not permitted anywhere else on Tomales Bay or elsewhere within Point Reyes National Seashore. More Information Coming Soon! We also rent closed deck kayaks if you have taken a recovery course with us or another kayak outfitter. All of our tours are led by guides with years of experience on Tomales Bay. 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. . Whether you plan to spend a few hours or a few days on the bay, this is a great starting point. MILLER COUNTY PARK (415) 499-6387Also known as Nicks Cove. At Tomales Bay Expeditions our goal is to ensure that your experience on the water is both safe and satisfying. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. Cancel completely. (415) 798-2040. Turn right (still Point Reyes Petaluma Road) and drive 3.1 miles to Highway 1. Crescent Tandem Kayak, sit-on-top with elevated, framed single seats. Contact the National Seashore reservation office at (415) 663-8054 for reservations and to place your name on the mailing list for information. 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). The island is open on the west side only for day use. It's an easy hike downfrom the parking lot. The Tomales Bay State Park General Plan. Boaters may pull up on the southern edge of the beach to access the restrooms and drinking water. Shane C. said: I truly can't say enough about this place! (415) 798-2040. 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. Land for a picnic. Dog friendly options. Come visit our launch location at the northern end of the Tomales Bay Resort in Inverness. 2 2.5 hours of Paddle time. Given that good weather often attracts a large volume of paddlers to our area, we recommend making reservations in advance whenever possible. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call. Fun getaway from the Bay and a change from the usual car camping or backpacking. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. Marshall Beach Trail is an out-and-back trail that provides a good opportunity to see wildlife located near Inverness, California. These can include bioluminescent organisms, nocturnal predators such as owls, and, if the skies are clear, excellent star gazing! 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. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. The island is open on the west side only for day use. Contact Lawson's Landing for more information at 707-878-2443. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. Tomales Bay is one of the most stunning paddling destinations in California, and Blue Waters Kayaking has multiple options for you to go out and explore on your own via kayak or stand up paddle board: Tomales Bay typically gets higher winds after 12pm, and all rentals must be back by 4:30pm. When these organisms are moved by waves or by the paddle of a kayak or canoe, the light becomes visible, especially on dark nights. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Want to get away for an invigorating outdoorsy vacation? Since the Titan comes with so much primary and secondary stability, I took the plunge last weekend. We look forward to hearing from you. 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. No overnight parking for boat-in campers is allowed in Point Reyes National Seashore or Tomales Bay State Park. 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. Kayaking Day Tours Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling 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. Outback Adventures, Larkspur, 415-461-2222. Bioluminescence is a naturally occurring phenomenon and we cannot guarantee that you will see Bioluminescence. Call us today! It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Renters can enjoy the comfort and stability of a large sit-on-top while achieving speeds usually reserved for racing kayaks. It is the emission of light by microorganisms undersea called marine dinoflagellate or plankton. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, three miles north of Point Reyes Station. Orange floats are placed to mark the swimming area during the summer. Tandem kayak, paddle, pre-paddle orientation, two guides per event/group, one headlamp with RED light per boat. Contacts: Blue Waters Kayaking, (415) 669-2600, www.bwkayak.com. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. (. Triples also available. A vault toilet is available. 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. Potable water is not provided at any of the beaches along Tomales Bay within the National Seashore. Get there faster with a Hobie pedal-driven kayak! Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. 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. Motorized vessels are prohibited within 100 of the swim area markers. 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. There was one group departing n 2 other campers coming in. Call us today! There is a dump station and boat rentals. Contact Tomales Bay State Park for more information at 415-669-1140. 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. The whaleboat is built to allow light to reflect through the translucent hull. As the wind often increases throughout the day, launching in the morning is typically a safer decision when planning the logistics of your paddle. Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes California. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. They also offer great classes, bioluminescent tours, and suggestions for . Not for beginner kayakers and not recommended for kids under 14 years old. 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. A unique way to experience Tomales Bay is to take a night tour! During this time, you will also have the opportunity to seek local knowledge of the area from our experienced staff. Avalis BeachThe northernmost westside beach of the Point Reyes National Seashore. This post covers things to do in Tomales Bay along Highway 1, excluding Point Reyes. LAWSONS LANDING (707) 878-2443The campground and boat launch are located in Dillon Beach with direct access to Tomales Bay. The whole hike is beautiful. The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. Bring your own fresh water for cooking and drinking, as there are few water sources emptying into the bay on the west side. 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. more, Two peaceful cottages located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. A crazy sand bar, which almost closes the entrance, causes random surf and. (The venue for each class will be wind, weather, and tide dependent.) From here we offer kayak rentals for walk-ins and by reservation. A vault toilet is available. We are a small, locally owned company which prides ourselves in our experience, depth of knowledge and connection to our home. As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted on Tomales Bay. Off-site rentals, $75 all day on weekdays, $115 on weekends. A narrow inlet that's about 15 miles long, Tomales Bay separates Point Reyes and the Marin Coastline. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. As the evening fades into darkness, the sky is lit by stars above, followed by traces of bioluminescence glowing as its spills from your kayak paddle. Learn more steps you can take by visiting the. 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. Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. While there are restrooms at Hearts Desire Beach, Lawsons Landing, and Miller Boat Launch, a pit toilet at Indian Beach, and portable toilets at Chicken Ranch Beach, camping is prohibited at all of these locations. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Just follow Pierce Point Road until you see the sign to the beach. They are optional based on your comfort. Walk-Ins available from 9-3pm based on availability of boats & parking. Tour Date: March 18th, 2023. The best way to witness these amazing animals? (415) 798-2040. The best paddle here is the easy trip to the southern end of Tomales Bay, a wetlands area excellent for sighting shorebirds and waterfowl. TOMALES BAY RESORT (415) 669-1389The Resort and 62-boat marina are located on the west side of the bay. PFDs and paddles are included with each rental. We look forward to hearing from you. His first novel, "The Sweet Redemption, An Inspector Korg Mystery," was released for 2013.