As a longtime resident of San Diego, I can confidently say that the area has a lot to offer visitors and locals alike!
Many of our most popular activities are those that can be enjoyed outside in our year-round sunny weather, some of which are water sports! My personal favorites are surfing, stand-up paddle board (SUP) and of course kayaking!
Kayaking is a great way to get out on the water without the need for a noisy motor. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, and individuals and can be enjoyed for pure recreation but also for fishing, hunting, and transportation.
In San Diego, kayaking can be an incredible way to explore the coastline of the Pacific Ocean as well as our beautiful bays – the San Diego Bay and Mission Bay!
Beautiful Sunset Kayak in Mission Bay
Why Kayaking?
Similar to a canoe, kayaks are lighter, trimmer, and easier to navigate.
While both use a paddle to propel it forward, the kayaks’ design makes it an accessible way to explore areas like San Diego Bay, Mission Bay, and La Jolla.
One of the best things about kayaking is that it’s great for all skill levels.
Early Morning Kayak in Sail Bay, Part of Mission Bay
Different Types of Kayaks
To keep the details as high level as possible, there are typically two basic options of kayak configurations to choose from.
- Single seat kayaks
- Two seater (tandem) kayaks
Choosing the right kayak for you and your group depends on a few different factors such as what you’ll be doing, where you will go, and who will be in your group.
There are different kayaks available for long distance tours, fishing, whitewater, sea, and rivers kayaking.
Fishing While Kayaking off of Vacation Isle in Mission Bay
Renting a Kayak
If you’ve got kayaking experience and are just looking for a kayak rental in San Diego, we’ve got you covered!
The Go City San Diego pass has two great options, both at discounted prices when you use code GVSD5OFF at checkout.
The Coronado 90-minute Tandem Kayak Rental by SUP and Saddle provides the kayak, paddle and life vests. The 90-minute La Jolla kayak rental version also includes a two-person kayak and all you’ll need to explore.
Or if you’d rather go on a guided kayaking tour, there’s a version that includes the seven caves of La Jolla and a version that includes a kayak trip and snorkeling!
If you’re interested in the best times of year or conditions for kayaking, where to kayak in San Diego or some kayaking tips, keep reading!
Sea Lions Sunning Themselves at the Childrens Pool
What Can You See While Kayaking in San Diego
San Diego’s year-round water sports means you’ll get to experience something different every season.
Marine Life
Kayaking brings you close to our famous seals and sea lions as they sun on the rocks or swim alongside you.
During winter and spring, the water may be colder and choppier, but this is a great time to see the whales as they migrate through the area.
While less common, you might even get to see the playful dolphins and gentle sea turtles while on your tour.
The Surf Can Get Very Good at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Natural, Coastal Beauty
Viewing San Diego’s stunning cliffs, rock formations, and sea caves from the water makes for a timeless, unique, and breathtaking experience.
Being able to get close to these natural formations, and our kelp forests, lets you truly appreciate the beauty of San Diego. From the largest cliff face to the smallest creature in our underwater ecosystem, you won’t want to miss this incredible view.
More Museum Boats at the Maritime Musuem on San Diego Bay
Famous & Historic Landmarks
While heading out on your tour, you may even get to see some of San Diego’s most popular sights.
From the beautiful harbor to our military vessels, your tour may take you closer to these sights than you ever thought possible.
Seasonality
Summer and fall are prime time for kayaking in San Diego, but even on the best days, a full wetsuit may be in order and swell and wind conditions should be taken into consideration.