Led by guides from Blue Waters Kayaking and expert Naturalist David Wimpfheimer, this full day kayak trip will give you an opportunity to view the birds and wildlife of Tomales Bay along the shores of Point Reyes with in-depth natural history interpretation. Experience Point Reyes in a new way with a view from the Bay!

We will meet at Miller Park Boat Launch (next to Nick’s Cove Restaurant and Cottages). After organizing gear, reviewing basic kayaking instructions and safety procedures, we’ll launch our boats and paddle across the bay to the Point Reyes National Seashore. As we kayak along the shoreline we will discover the myriad and diverse animals which inhabit the Bay and its shores. In addition to the Tule Elk, it is common to see harbor seals, bat-rays, leopard sharks, osprey, river otters, and sea lions. The area around Hog Island is also rich in wildlife and scenic beauty.

This tour features naturalist David Wimpfheimer. From The California Naturalist website “David Wimpfheimer, is a biologist, professional naturalist and guide with a passion for birds and the natural history of the West. Since the mid-1980s, David has shared a great deal of information about all aspects of the natural world with hundreds of groups.”

All guided tours are in tandem closed deck sea kayaks. Our double kayaks track well, are difficult to capsize, and are easy to maneuver. All the necessary gear such as life jackets, paddles, and spray skirts is provided. Single paddlers are welcome to register and will be paired into double kayaks by guides onsite.

We’ll go rain or shine.

Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your tour starts.

What to bring:

Come prepared for variable weather. Bring clothes that reflect your degree of sensitivity to heat and cold.

$5.00 cash for state park parking fee.

Sun screen, hat & lip balm.

Wool or fleece hat (for cool evenings).

Long-underwear, no cotton.

Quick-dry shorts or baggy nylon pants that can be rolled up.

Shoes you don’t mind getting wet: sandals and wool socks, wetsuit booties, aqua socks or rubber boot in cool weather.

Windbreaker/rain jacket

Long sleeve: wool, capilene, poly pro, or some other synthetic material, no cotton.

Sweater: pile, fleece or wool pullover.

Change of clothes, including dry shoes.

1 liter (minimum) water bottle.

High-energy snacks or light lunch.

Binoculars

Details

-We will be meeting at the Miller Park Boat Launch (next to Nick’s Cove)

– Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

– No refunds will be given for cancellations 7 days or fewer ahead of this class unless cancelled by organizers due to extreme weather or safety conditions.

– Please follow the parking instructions for the facility used that day

– Please provide an email you check regularly for updates and reminders about your class

– Registration is required online prior to the event in order to maintain class sizes

– Waitlists are available when the class sells out

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute volunteer facilitator, or are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Send an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

In accordance with Marin County guidelines for public health and safety, we ask all participants to respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

• Perform a health self-check before coming to class using the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus as a guide

• Do not attend class if you are experiencing COVID symptoms, suspect you have been exposed to the virus, or are suffering from any other flu-like or respiratory illness

• Participants exhibiting signs of respiratory illness may be asked to leave class

• Masks are optional but are strongly recommended when indoors or if gathered closely outside

• Please bring your own food and water

NOTE: Refund policy exceptions will be made for participants cancelling last minute due to COVID-19 infection or symptoms. Please contact us in this case.

Thank you for your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep everyone safe.