INVERNESS SUP FIELD GUIDE
Glide Out from Heart's Desire: Stand‑Up Paddle Tomales Bay's Calm Waters
Launch from Heart's Desire Beach into the protected waters of Tomales Bay State Park — this guide explains launch logistics, what to bring, route flow, and where to watch for herons, seals and bat rays.
Glide Out from Heart's Desire: Stand‑Up Paddle Tomales Bay's Calm Waters.
Set off from Heart’s Desire Beach, tucked inside the calm, protected waters of Tomales Bay State Park. Whether you choose an hour or a full‑day escape, this launch offers an approachable, low‑stress way to paddle sheltered water, scan the shoreline and watch for wildlife.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
On‑shore pickup and equipment briefing
Meet staff on the sand at Heart's Desire Beach to pick up your SUP, receive necessary gear and a brief safety orientation before you push off.
Herons, seals and the occasional bat ray
Paddling Tomales Bay from Heart’s Desire Beach gives repeated opportunities to spot shorebirds and marine life along the protected shoreline.
Flexible outings from one hour to a full day
Options range from short paddles to longer outings — choose from 1‑hour sessions up to an 8‑hour day, with different booking windows available.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
After a short on‑sand orientation you launch from shore into calm, scenic waters and paddle at your own pace—float in stillness beneath open sky, skirt a forested shoreline, and stop for photos or a shoreline snack as you watch for local wildlife.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who is eligible and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sunscreen and lip balm; a full water bottle (recommend 32 oz / 1 liter per person); high‑energy snacks or a light lunch; a dry change of clothes or dry socks/shoes for after the tour.
Hat with a brim (and strap if windy); sunglasses; quick‑dry pants or shorts and a quick‑dry shirt; a warmth layer such as a fleece or synthetic jacket; windbreaker or rain jacket. Shoes you don’t mind getting wet (water sandals, wetsuit booties, old sneakers, or rubber boots) — avoid unsecured flip‑flops.
Long underwear (synthetic, wool, or silk), wool or fleece hats, and warmer layers are recommended in colder months (typically late November through mid‑April); pull‑over spray jackets may be provided on tours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are the paddle options?
There are options ranging from 1 hour up to an 8‑hour outing.
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at 1100 Pierce Point Road, in Inverness, CA 94937 — the team meets right on the sand at Heart’s Desire Beach.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Paddlers commonly watch for herons, seals and bat rays along the shoreline of Tomales Bay.
What should I bring and how much water?
Bring sunscreen and lip balm, a full water bottle (1 liter / ~32 oz recommended), and high‑energy snacks or a light lunch; consider a dry change of clothes for after the tour.
Are there age limits or accompaniment rules?
Minimum age is 13; participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Will I get wet on the tour?
Most people do not get very wet on the tour, but footwear will likely be wet and some clothing may be damp; a change of clothes or dry socks/shoes is recommended.