San Diego’s best paddling experiences center on two main areas: San Diego Bay and La Jolla’s coastline. From gentle bay waters perfect for beginners to wildlife-rich ocean routes, the options are wonderfully straightforward.
I especially love the La Jolla kayak and snorkel tours – they combine scenic coastal paddling with up-close encounters with local sea lions and bright orange Garibaldi fish.
For a quieter experience, the guided San Diego Bay tours offer peaceful waters and stellar city views, particularly at sunset.
Mission Bay stands out for independent paddlers, with rental operations that make it easy to explore the calm waters at your own speed.
Check out these top-rated kayak and canoe tours in San Diego:
Key Points
- For a guided kayak and snorkel tour, the 2.5-hour La Jolla Kayak and Snorkel Tour offers an up-close encounter with diverse marine life along the coastline.
- The 60-minute Stand-Up Paddle Board Lesson on San Diego Bay provides a suitable and beginner-friendly introduction to the activity, with equipment and guidance included.
- Kayaking on the picturesque San Diego Bay offers a serene and relaxing experience, with the Kayak on the San Diego Bay tour providing life vests and paddles.
- For independent exploration, the Single Kayak Rental in Mission Bay allows visitors to freely discover the bay at their own pace, with a perfect 5-star rating.
- Chula Vista Water Sports provides a canoe and kayak rental option on the San Diego Bay, catering to a range of skill levels and offering a 4.8-star rated experience.
Stand up Paddle Board Lesson on The San Diego Bay
Embarking on a stand-up paddle board adventure on the serene San Diego Bay, visitors can enjoy a fun and exhilarating water-based experience.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 25 reviewers, this popular lesson is recommended by 96% of travelers. Meeting at Bayside Park, you will receive a paddle board, life vest, and dry bag as they learn the basics from patient, friendly instructors.
The 60-minute session is suitable for all skill levels, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group. Participants can expect to quickly feel confident on the water, enjoying the warm temperatures and picturesque surroundings.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Infants must sit on laps, and the lesson isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and prices starting at $20 per person, this stand-up paddle board experience is an excellent way to explore the beauty of San Diego Bay.
Read our full review: Stand up Paddle Board Lesson on The San Diego Bay Review
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La Jolla: 2.5-Hour Kayak and Snorkel Tour
Travelers can discover the natural beauty of La Jolla’s iconic coastline on a 2.5-hour kayak and snorkel tour.
This popular activity allows visitors to explore the famous La Jolla Cove and its seven sea caves by water. Reviewers rave about the stunning scenery, with a 4.9-star rating from 17 reviews.
The tour is priced at $90 per person and includes all necessary equipment. During the 1.5-hour experience, you will paddle their kayaks and have the opportunity to jump in the water for some snorkeling.
This is an excellent way to get up close with the diverse marine life found in the cove, including seals, sea lions, and a variety of fish. The tour operator provides guidance and ensures a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Whether you’re a novice or experienced paddler, this La Jolla kayak and snorkel tour offers a unique and memorable way to explore San Diego’s stunning coastline.
Read our full review: La Jolla: 2.5-Hour Kayak and Snorkel Tour Review
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Kayak on the San Diego Bay
Chula Vista Water Sports offers a serene kayak adventure on the picturesque San Diego Bay.
With a 4.8-star rating and a 95% recommendation from travelers, this activity is a must-try for those seeking a relaxing water experience. Priced from $20 per person, the tour provides all necessary equipment, including life vests and paddles.
The meeting point is the Chula Vista Water Sports canopy, and the directions are straightforward, guiding visitors to the launch site.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are welcome. Participants should note that it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Kayak on the San Diego Bay Review
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Single Kayak Rental in Mission Bay
For those seeking a solo water adventure in San Diego, Mission Bay offers the opportunity to rent a single kayak. Priced from $25 per group (up to 1 person), the rental includes a lifejacket, paddle, and use of the kayak.
The meeting and ticket redemption point is located at 1617 Quivira Rd, which is accessible by public transportation.
The rental experience, operated by Cruise San Diego, is subject to availability, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking. While the activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, a moderate fitness level is required.
After the rental, kayakers will return to the same meeting point.
Based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor, this single kayak rental in Mission Bay has earned a perfect 5-star rating, with a total of 2 reviews. Customers can enjoy the freedom of exploring the bay on their own, taking in the sights and the peaceful waters.
Read our full review: Single Kayak Rental in Mission Bay Review
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Recap
San Diego’s diverse waterways offer a range of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. From serene paddle boarding on the bay to exhilarating kayak tours in La Jolla, there’s something for every water enthusiast. With convenient rental options and guided excursions, exploring San Diego’s picturesque coastline has never been easier. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, these adventures promise unforgettable memories on the water.