We set up camp while enjoying freshly shucked oysters and music from our waterproof speaker. Stand-up paddleboards: On-site rentals, $25 per hour, $75 all day. It is on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, one mile north of Inverness. The area is world-renowned for bioluminescence tours in California. No Rack? (2 kayaks or 3 SUPs can fit on top of any vehicle.) Check with the Seashore reservation office. Note: All paddlers must be a minimum of 5 years of age and 50 pounds in weight. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. 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. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. No restrooms or water. Orange floats are placed in the water in summer to indicate the swimming area. 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. Start at the Tomales Point Trailhead near the Historic Pierce Point Ranch. Instead, take Lucas Valley Road. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. hoping to witness the phenomenon before winter weather ended bioluminescent viewing season and made nighttime trips too dangerous. It takes an hour to an hour and a half to get there. Tours leave from multiple locations on Tomales Bay based on tide and weather conditions. You can also buy phone cases or dry bag from us by placing your order in advance, $25. 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. On-site horse boarding. Inverness, CA 94937, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. (Monday through Friday reservations available by ADVANCED RESERVATION - $800 Minimum) Heart's Desire Beach is in our opinion, one of the best launching locations on Tomales Bay. Since the Titan comes with so much primary and secondary stability, I took the plunge last weekend. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including shorebirds, elephant seals, and migratory gray whales. It is located on the east side of Tomales Bay off Highway 1, north of the town of Marshall. We schedule these trips during the most ideal viewing conditions. The night can get cold, so dress in layers. Tomales Bay Expeditions offers guided kayaking tours of Tomales Bay, usually starting in the morning for the best paddling conditions. 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. Carry dry bag, waterproof cell phone case, or zip lock bag to protect cell phones, keys and other valuables. (Monday through Friday reservations available by ADVANCED RESERVATION $800 Minimum) Hearts Desire Beach is in our opinion, one of the best launching locations on Tomales Bay. If you observe drone use in Point Reyes National Seashore, please call park dispatch at 415-464-5170 or contact staff at the nearest Visitor Center as soon as possible. There is very little shade, so make sure to bring some sunscreen. 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. It is the emission of light by microorganisms undersea called marine dinoflagellate or plankton. They are optional based on your comfort. And again, I did not go under.I love this boat already, after the very first afternoon! 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? There is a dump station and boat rentals. 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. No dump station. 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. Use our quick contact form below and well get back to you a.s.a.p. Not yet being able to roll, I had never dared getting close to it. (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! He was the fourth living member inducted into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame. 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. There are a various outfitters who will include rental and guides. 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. Suggested put-in points include Lac St Patrice/Forant Bridge (110 km, 7 days) and Lac Raymond (75 km, 5 days). Prior to launching, each customer will be provided a tutorial including information about the equipment and the rules and regulations of kayaking on Tomales Bay. 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. With hundreds of marine dinoflagellates assembled in the bay, the collective effect can be magical. Start from Petaluma: 20 Miles, 30 Minutes, Start From Napa: 45 Miles, 1Hr 15 Minutes. 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. There is a day-use fee and overnight-use fee. - 2D & 3D Existing Plans, Established in June of 1978, High Sierra Water Ski School is located on the pristine, We offer hassle free insured drivers for your rental or personal car. The park is more, A secluded Mediterranean-style bed and breakfast in a quiet pastoral setting looking out on the Inverness Ridge and West Marins beautiful rolling hills youll love the vineyard views, serene koi pond and wine tasting room. 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. 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. Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula. 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. That makes it a bit difficult to keep track of the attitude of the boat with respect to the camera. You must carry your boat approximately 100 meters (110 yards) across a sandy beach. 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. Reservations may be made online at Recreation.gov. Tours leave from various locations depending on tidal conditions. Kayak tour information here. MARSHALL, CA. There is gas, dump station, and boat rentals. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. ~~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. 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. 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. Always check the weather and marine forecasts before kayaking, canoeing, boating, etc. It's an easy hike downfrom the parking lot. Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay. Triples also available. Moderate. 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. When these organisms are moved by waves or by the paddle of a kayak or canoe, the light becomes visible, especially on dark nights. We look forward to hearing from you. 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'. Group First Aid Kit - Contents include wound care items and over the counter medications for minor injuries and illnesses. No overnight use or beach fires. 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. Customers get to experience the epic scenery, abundant wildlife and favorable kayaking conditions which make Tomales Bay a world class place to paddle. As you make your way down the trail towards the beach, youll meander al Like camping in remote locations? 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. Contact Tomales Bay Resort for more information at 415-669-1389. Our guided tour will take you through areas where your kayak paddle creates long stretches of glowing bioluminescent for the longest time. We are a small, locally owned company which prides ourselves in our experience, depth of knowledge and connection to our home. Tomales Bay, at 12 miles long, is the largest protected bay in Point Reyes National Seashore. The only marine Wilderness on the west coast of the continental United States, the esteros (Spanish for estuaries) offer relatively undisturbed habitat for harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and many species of birds and fish. TOMALES BAY RESORT (415) 669-1389The Resort and 62-boat marina are located on the west side of the bay. Along with our normal rental orientation, Hobie rentals include an additional few minutes of instruction on how to operate the pedal-drive and rudder system. A vault toilet is available. Come visit our launch location at the northern end of the Tomales Bay Resort in Inverness. The best paddle here is the easy trip to the southern end of Tomales Bay, a wetlands area excellent for sighting shorebirds and waterfowl. From the quiet calm of a kayak gliding along the bay. Tour length is normally 3 hours (longer tours available by request) and includes paddling instruction. 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. There are stunning National Parks, spectacular mountains, free-flowing rivers and at the center of our adventure, the glacial-carved Saguenay Fjord. Bring a cap or hoodie, a waterproof shell, and waterproof pants to avoid your feet and legs getting wet from the drips from the paddle. Tomales Bay State Park: Heart's Desire Beach. The island is open on the west side only for day use. Join once, enjoy forever. Tomales Bay State Park provides two sites at which one may launch kayaks onto Tomales Bay: Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. If you plan to have a. We look forward to hearing from you. Outback Adventures, Larkspur, 415-461-2222. Overnight parking is in the upper lot, to the right as you pull in. Our drivers are, We've always been captivated by the sea, and since 1998, we've had the pleasure of, Being a Napa native, I offer small-group services for a more intimate experience,. Contact Marin County Parks for more information at 415-499-6387. What you'll see: A fast, easy way to change your reality is to get into a kayak. The island is open on the west side only for day use. In seconds, you will change what you see and transform how you feel. (3) Fitness level : 3. 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. 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! Turn right and drive 3.8 miles to Point Reyes Petaluma Road. Boaters may land to the south of the orange floats. 12948 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, 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. From here we offer kayak rentals for walk-ins and by reservation. 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. Recreational use of Tomales Bay has grown in recent years especially for camping, boating, and wildlife watching. TOMALES BAY STATE PARK(415) 669-1140The state park provides two access areas to Tomales Bay, Millerton Point and Hearts Desire Beach. We paddled across the bay, subject to scrutiny by . 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. There is a day-use and overnight fee charged. (415) 798-2040. 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. There is likely underwater currents that can be very dangerous. 4.7. His books have sold more than 1 million copies. We will use our decades of experience in this area to make sure you have a safe, enlightening and . Copyright 2023Tomales Bay Expeditions ‐ All Rights Reserved. (locations are listed in the order in which one would encounter them moving counter-clockwise around the bay from Tomales Point to Dillon Beach). . In the event of adverse weather conditions, well try our best to reschedule the tour at a later date, rest assured. Be extremely cautious with getting into the water. It's home to harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and the majestic tule elk. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement. If you time it right and are paddling at night, you'll also get to experience bioluminescence. After having two horrible, Architectural Plans and 3D Virtual Tours with Matterport. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you are confident from beginning to end. No overnight parking for boat-in campers is allowed in Point Reyes National Seashore or Tomales Bay State Park. Shane C. said: I truly can't say enough about this place! Chicken Ranch Beach is a three-acre natural area adjacent to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard 1.8 km (1.2 miles) north of Inverness. His first novel, "The Sweet Redemption, An Inspector Korg Mystery," was released for 2013. Cancel completely. Turn right (still Point Reyes Petaluma Road) and drive 3.1 miles to Highway 1. Two guides per group. We also rent closed deck kayaks if you have taken a recovery course with us or another kayak outfitter. Along with our normal rental orientation, Hobie rentals include an additional few minutes of instruction on how to operate the pedal-drive and rudder system. Orange floats are placed to mark the swimming area during the summer. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. Led by our highly experienced local guides, these 3 hour tours explore the wonders of Tomales Bay after dark. They also offer great classes, bioluminescent tours, and suggestions for . (The venue for each class will be wind, weather, and tide dependent.) The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. As a photographer with The Chronicle, he won first place in America for best outdoors feature image in 2011. Located to the west of Ottawa, "the Valley" stretches along the Ottawa River from Arnprior up to Deep River and extends . Got a question or message for Tomales Bay Expeditions? These regions of the peninsula are best known for their natural beauty and diversity in plant and wildlife. 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. Not for beginner kayakers and not recommended for kids under 14 years old. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at Heart's Desire Beach. The kayak trip is limited to the darkest nights of the new moon phases in Summer and fall; hence sells out quickly. It's going to be so much fun! Must be comfortable and confident in water with up to 18" wind swell. 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. Quebec is an immense land of mountains and water and an ideal location for sea kayaking. If you wash dishes, be aware that all soaps can adversely affect water.