INVERNESS KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
A Wilderness Paddle Through One of California’s Most Stunning Estuaries
A half‑day, guided kayak tour through Drakes Estero’s eelgrass and kelp beds, useful for planning logistics, wildlife expectations, and what to bring.
A Wilderness Paddle Through One of California’s Most Stunning Estuaries.
Paddle the quiet, protected waters of Drakes Estero from the former Drake's Bay Oyster Farm, slipping past kelp forests and eelgrass beds as harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, river otters and a battalion of water and shore birds keep watch along the shoreline.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Launch from the former Drake's Bay Oyster Farm
The tour launches from the parking lot at the former oyster farm and takes paddlers out along Schooner Bay into the quieter coves and fingers of Drakes Estero, a designated wilderness area where motors are not allowed.
Exceptional wildlife viewing
As you glide over eelgrass beds and tidal flats keep an eye out for harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, river otters and numerous birds including osprey and pelicans.
Quiet coves and kelp forest
The estero’s sheltered arms, kelp beds and eelgrass make for peaceful paddling and secluded shoreline views that define this protected wilderness paddle.
What the day feels like
What the half‑day feels like
This guided half‑day paddle begins on shore with a gear check and brief safety review, then unfolds as a measured glide across Schooner Bay and into the quiet fingers of the estero—an easy‑paced outing that emphasizes wildlife watching and the estuarine landscape.
THE ROUTE
Launch from the former Drake's Bay Oyster Farm
The tour launches from the parking lot at the former oyster farm and takes paddlers out along Schooner Bay into the quieter coves and fingers of Drakes Estero, a designated wilderness area where motors are not allowed.
THE WILDLIFE
Exceptional wildlife viewing
As you glide over eelgrass beds and tidal flats keep an eye out for harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, river otters and numerous birds including osprey and pelicans.
THE SETTING
Quiet coves and kelp forest
The estero’s sheltered arms, kelp beds and eelgrass make for peaceful paddling and secluded shoreline views that define this protected wilderness paddle.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who it does not.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The guided tour runs approximately 4 hours.
Meet at 18486 Sir Francis Drake Blvd in the parking lot of the former Drakes Bay Oyster Farm; please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time.
Bring sunscreen, lip balm, a full water bottle (about 32 oz/1 L recommended), high‑energy snacks or a light lunch, and a change of dry clothes or dry socks/shoes for after the tour. Wear quick‑dry clothing and shoes that can get wet; layers and a windbreaker or rain jacket are advised.
Guides provide tandem closed‑deck sea kayaks, life jackets, paddles and spray skirts; tours proceed rain or shine. Book early as participant numbers are limited.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The guided tour lasts about 4 hours.
Where do we meet?
Meet at 18486 Sir Francis Drake Blvd at the former Drakes Bay Oyster Farm parking lot; arrive at least 15 minutes early.
What if it rains?
Tours run rain or shine.
Is there an age minimum?
Minimum age is 13; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Are tours restricted seasonally?
Drake's Bay is closed to kayaking for seal protection every year from March 1 to June 30.
Is equipment provided?
All necessary gear — including life jackets, paddles and spray skirts — is provided for guided tours.