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. Point Reyes Outdoors (415) 663-8192Blue Waters Kayaking (415) 669-2600. 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. No overnight camping or beach fires. The bay is largely bounded on the west by Point Reyes National Seashore. Visit recreation.gov or call the Visitor Center at (415) 464-5100 for more information and availability. Located to the west of Ottawa, "the Valley" stretches along the Ottawa River from Arnprior up to Deep River and extends . Sea Trek Kayak & Stand Up Paddling Center, Sausalito, 415-332-8494. From the quiet calm of a kayak gliding along the bay. If you have questions or ideas about arranging a paddle or an event, were here to help. The kayak trip is limited to the darkest nights of the new moon phases in Summer and fall; hence sells out quickly. We schedule these trips during the most ideal viewing conditions. There is very little shade, so make sure to bring some sunscreen. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. 94956. Since the Titan comes with so much primary and secondary stability, I took the plunge last weekend. A vault toilet is available. Quebec is an immense land of mountains and water and an ideal location for sea kayaking. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call. Bioluminescence is a naturally occurring phenomenon and we cannot guarantee that you will see Bioluminescence. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. It is located on the east side of Tomales Bay off Highway 1, north of the town of Marshall. Contact Tomales Bay Resort for more information at 415-669-1389. (, Let us drop them off for you at your waterside location if you are coming out midweek. What you'll see: A fast, easy way to change your reality is to get into a kayak. 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. Since Drakes Estero and Estero de Limantour are designated as Wilderness, motorized watercraft are prohibited year-round. Tomales Bay Day Rentals; Tomales Bay Camping Tomales Bay Expeditions are available year around and our schedules fill quickly, so why not register today? Contact the National Seashore reservation office at (415) 663-8054 for reservations and to place your name on the mailing list for information. Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. (415) 798-2040. These guys were exceedingly polite, professional, and communicative. You can also buy phone cases or dry bag from us by placing your order in advance, $25. 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. This is it! Kayak Beautiful Tomales bay and experience the bioluminescence ecology of the bay. In seconds, you will change what you see and transform how you feel. The road opens up as you pass Nicasio Reservoir (full right now) on the left. 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. more, Tomales Bay Resort is located directly on the shores of Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay is a narrow, long channel between wooded ridges. Be extremely cautious with getting into the water. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. 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. There is a day-use fee and overnight parking requires purchasing a Lawson's Landing campsite. 12948 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, 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. Off-site rentals, $75 all day on weekdays, $115 on weekends. 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. We look forward to hearing from you. hoping to witness the phenomenon before winter weather ended bioluminescent viewing season and made nighttime trips too dangerous. Bring your own fresh water for cooking and drinking, as there are few water sources emptying into the bay on the west side. We look forward to hearing from you. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. In the morning, we saw hammer sharks, rays swimming in the water while enjoying our breakfast. These regions of the peninsula are best known for their natural beauty and diversity in plant and wildlife. Renters can enjoy the comfort and stability of a large sit-on-top while achieving speeds usually reserved for racing kayaks. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour, $75 all day. Suggested put-in points include Lac St Patrice/Forant Bridge (110 km, 7 days) and Lac Raymond (75 km, 5 days). Refund available for reservations cancelled up to 14-days prior to your tour date; $35/cancellation fee applies. Choose from rooms with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and water views. Kayaking is also permitted on Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero from July 1 through February 28. Need something for your next adventure? Except Saturdays can be very busy. Call us today! A portable toilet is available. Contact Lawson's Landing for more information at 707-878-2443. The National Park Service at Point Reyes is concerned about the effects of the growth in recreational use. They had a demo boat that took all of an hour to convince me. All rentals subject to availability. The area is world-renowned for bioluminescence tours in California. A narrow inlet that's about 15 miles long, Tomales Bay separates Point Reyes and the Marin Coastline. 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. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. In the event of adverse weather conditions, well try our best to reschedule the tour at a later date, rest assured. No dump station. 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. Lawson's Landing's campground and boat launch are located in Dillon Beach with direct access to the north end of Tomales Bay. Our guided tour will take you through areas where your kayak paddle creates long stretches of glowing bioluminescent for the longest time. 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. This 4 mile paddle is perfect for those with a little bit of prior paddling experience-- we'll bring all the necessary gear and a refresher on kayaking basics before getting started. Contacts: Blue Waters Kayaking, (415) 669-2600, www.bwkayak.com. 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. Parking is limited in the Point Reyes area. No overnight use or beach fires. (, Load your boat or board on to a set of wheels and walk them 5 to 10 minutes to Lagunitas Creek, Available by Request w/ $800 minimum per day, We also rent closed deck kayaks if you have taken a recovery course with us or another kayak outfitter. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Plenty of car parking is available for guests. Please check in at the Bear Valley Visitor Center prior to a trip in order to get updated information on closures or conditions. The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. So the camera was sitting too loose and thus was knocked over by the same waves that tipped me. Not for beginner paddlers. Crescent Tandem Kayak, sit-on-top with elevated, framed single seats. On Tomales Bay, there are vault toilets at Marshall Beach and Tomales Beach. In 2008, he won first place for best outdoors column in America. 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. more, oysters at station house cafe point reyes, horseback riding point reyes national seashore, living room with couch, table, fireplace and musical instruments, Point Reyes Station Inn Bed and Breakfast, Groom's Quarters Point Reyes Lodging Horse Stables. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour . Beaches on this map Kilkenny Beach Blue Waters Kayaking is now offering Kayak & SUP Rentals from the shore of Heart's Desire Beach in the Tomales Bay State Park EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY! 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? (415) 798-2040. Under the ocean of infinite stars, on the darkest night of Tomales Bay, discover magic in the oceans garden. 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. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. 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. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. If you are in the Bay Area, check out California Canoe \u0026 Kayak in Oakland. 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). A unique way to experience Tomales Bay is to take a night tour! This area can get busy so reservations are strongly suggested. Ocean kayaking is potentially very dangerous. Learn more steps you can take by visiting the. In the event you choose to cancel you will receive a full refund minus the 5% handling fee. This post covers things to do in Tomales Bay along Highway 1, excluding Point Reyes. Water and restrooms are available at the beach. You can easily unsubscribe at any time. Motorized vessels are prohibited within 100 of the swim area markers. Visitor use of national parklands must always be weighed against the responsibility to maintain natural and cultural resources for succeeding generations. I worked with them to organize two trips out on the bay during September's new moon. Visit our Your Safety While Boating page for information on preparing for and remaining safe while boating in the Point Reyes area. 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. 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 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. 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. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. We recommend water shoes or strap sandals. No overnight use or beach fires. Tom Stienstra is the outdoors writer for the San Francisco Chronicle. The whaleboat is built to allow light to reflect through the translucent hull. Option & Pricing: Select Package & Pricing Option. 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. (The venue for each class will be wind, weather, and tide dependent.) As a photographer with The Chronicle, he won first place in America for best outdoors feature image in 2011. Headlamp with RED light, drinking water, towel, whistle. (One person per kayak must have taken the course call 415.669.2600 for availability). CA The very first outing with my new kayak, a Current Designs Solstice GT Titan, took me to the mouth of Tomales Bay. Located an hour outside of downtown San Francisco, Tomales Bay is ideal for beginners because of its calm waters. Note: The best access point for a walk or to fish from shore is off Point Reyes Petaluma Road. There is a fee and permit system for overnight camping on the west side beaches of Tomales Bay (within Point Reyes National Seashore). The California State Park and Recreation Commission approved the Tomales Bay State Park General Plan at its May 14, 2004 meeting in Santa Rosa. 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. They provided everything we needed and included some basic how-to-kayak instruction. It is a critical wildlife habitat, a favorite haul-out for seals, and roosting place for brown pelicans. If you need to rent a kayak, Blue Waters has you covered! Timed during the lowest crescent of the moon, and starting around sunset, you will paddle into . The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. 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. Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay. TOMALES BAY STATE PARK(415) 669-1140The state park provides two access areas to Tomales Bay, Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. 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. ~~Where tour is cancelled after we already launched the kayaks and must return to shore within the first-hour patrons can: ~~Where tour is cancelled before we have launched the kayaks patrons can: To Reserve Overnight Kayak Rentals, Please Check Out Our, Every Saturday & Sunday you can pick up a board or boat from us right on the shore of Hearts Desire Beach (Monday through Friday reservations available by ADVANCED RESERVATION $800 Minimum), 7 Days a week, you can load them on to your vehicle from our headquarters in downtown Point Reyes Station and take them to one of the beautiful local launch locations on Tomales Bay (, Load your boat or board on to a set of wheels and take them on a 7-10 minute walk to Lagunitas Creek from our Point Reyes Headquarters. 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. 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. Tour Date: March 18th, 2023. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. 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. 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. Wear comfortable synthetic clothes as they dry faster. Tomales Bay Kayak Tour. The island is open on the west side only for day use. No overnight parking for boat-in campers is allowed in Point Reyes National Seashore or Tomales Bay State Park. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. We will use our decades of experience in this area to make sure you have a safe, enlightening and . Walk, boat, or bike to explore Point Reyes National Seashore from your front door. Millerton Point is on the east side of Tomales Bay, five kilometers (3 miles) north of Point Reyes Station. Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. 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. Tomales Bay is a 15-mile long, 6780-acre tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including shorebirds, elephant seals, and migratory gray whales. Potable water is not provided at any of the beaches along Tomales Bay within the National Seashore. Triples also available. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. And again, I did not go under.I love this boat already, after the very first afternoon! Not for beginner kayakers and not recommended for kids under 14 years old. No Problem! LAWSONS LANDING (707) 878-2443The campground and boat launch are located in Dillon Beach with direct access to Tomales Bay. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Tomales Bay State Park: Heart's Desire Beach. Chicken Ranch Beach is a three-acre natural area adjacent to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.8 km (1.2 miles) north of Inverness. . Watch especially for tides and currents in this area. Visit our Kayaking Around Point Reyes National Seashore page . It's going to be so much fun! If you time it right and are paddling at night, you'll also get to experience bioluminescence. Motorized vessels are prohibited within 30 meters (100 feet) of the swim area markers. Campers on Tomales Bay beaches must arrive by boat and may not hike, bike, or ride horses to the beaches. 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. Hearts Desire Beach is on the west side of Tomales Bay off Pierce Point Road. When the weather forecast took a turn for the worse leading up to my outing, Cooper and his team were great about . Loaded our kayak with our gear and fresh oyster we got on the way. However, there are rare occasions where we have launched and weather patterns change suddenly at which time we must return to shore. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. We searched for bioluminescent but it was hard to see that night even though there was no moon. It is the emission of light by microorganisms undersea called marine dinoflagellate or plankton. Other temporary or seasonal closures may be in effect at different times due to breeding populations of marine mammals, shorebirds, or seabirds. Included in the rental fee is a short introductory kayak lesson, directions on where to go and what to see, as well as your paddling equipment such as paddle, life vest, and a wet suit. 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. It takes an hour to an hour and a half to get there. Ahoy Boaters & Kayakers! The inn and marina are located on the west side of the bay. About. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. 4.7. Hobie pedal-drive kayaks are available in single or double for 4 hours or all-day. There is likely underwater currents that can be very dangerous. 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. As such, personal water craft (PWC) such as a Jetski or Waverunner are not permitted on Tomales Bay. This place is known as the Ottawa Valley. We are a small, locally owned company which prides ourselves in our experience, depth of knowledge and connection to our home. We offer various kayak rental options from our launch location at the Tomales Bay Resort. Orange floats are placed to mark the swimming area during the summer. Take only pictures; leave only footprints. Not yet being able to roll, I had never dared getting close to it. As with most beaches in Point Reyes swimming is not recommended. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. It is very shallow and is best used at high tides. Tomales Bay Expeditions are available year around and our schedules fill quickly, so why not register today? If you wash dishes, be aware that all soaps can adversely affect water. Triples also available. No restrooms or water. It is a day-use area (no overnight parking) and there is a day-use fee. Tandem kayak, paddle, pre-paddle orientation, two guides per event/group, one headlamp with RED light per boat. [3] Photograph the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes. Where can I launch my kayak in Tomales Bay? Tomales Bay is a 15-mile long, 6780-acre tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. Unpaid credit card deposits will be charged. Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? Walk-Ins available from 9-3pm based on availability of boats & parking. The Tomales Bay State Park General Plan. Call us today! Call us today! They also offer guided kayaking tours for a cost. 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. THERE IS NO WATER FOR BOAT IN CAMPERS ON TOMALES BAY, BRING YOUR OWN. ), or speak with a ranger. Winter Kayaking & Birding Tours with David Wimpfheimer: Sundays December 29, 2013 and January 19, 2014. . 2 2.5 hours of Paddle time. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. Tour length is normally 3 hours (longer tours available by request) and includes paddling instruction. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. There is a boat launch fee plus a parking fee. We'll send you a few emails every week. Tours leave from various locations depending on tidal conditions. more, An exceptionally peaceful Inn set atop a bluff looking out over an iconic view of rolling grasslands, Tomales Bay and Inverness Ridge guests come here for the spectacular view, privacy and deep serenity. Customers get to experience the epic scenery, abundant wildlife and favorable kayaking conditions which make Tomales Bay a world class place to paddle. 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. 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. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your You sit in the pocket, enveloped by water, and in a few quick strokes, you find out what freedom is all about. 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. Promptly was tipped over by a wave, and -- believe it or not -- managed the first successful high brace. Restrooms and water available. Kayak rentals: Full-day single kayaks, $70; full-day double kayaks, $110; available for two, four, 24, 36 and 48 hours. 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. Tomales Bay is a hotspot for bioluminescence. Please wait until you are in West Marin before purchasing fire wood. Beach fires are prohibited on state park beaches. We set up camp while enjoying freshly shucked oysters and music from our waterproof speaker. Point Reyes Station