Re: [Paddlewise] kayaking in northern california

"Northern California" is a very large region.  There are both sea kayaking and river kayaking and canoeing possibilities.  Most people think of the whitewater rivers here but there are also some big water floats available.

I don't think there are many beginner opportunities for multi-day ocean trips in N. Cal.  Most of the coast is extremely rocky and is subject to large wind waves and swells of 4 to 12 feet even in non-storm conditions.  (I don't go out on unprotected ocean here at all.  I leave that to people more experienced than me.)  Tomales Bay is a poplular destination for overnighters and slightly longer trips.  It is partially protected from ocean swell.  Permits are required for camping.

You might want to check out Demece Garepis' book.  Just search on Amazon for "Garepis" and you'll find it.  He covers quite a number of possibilities, primarily in Northern Cal.

As for an outfitter, my first thought (if Tomales Bay and the area immediately north of S.F. are to your liking) would be Tamal Saka.  http://www.tamalsaka.com/    
You might also talk to California Canoe and Kayak, Sea Trek, and Riptides & Rapids, all available on links from this page:  
http://www.sfboating.com/bbseakayaking.html

jerry.


At 10:58 AM 02/04/2000 -0500, Amigh2_at_aol.com wrote:
>i am traveling to northern california in late june and would like to do a 
>multi-day trip.  i am a beginner, a conservative (as opposed to aggressive) 
>paddler, but strong and a good learner, and would like to stretch my limits.  
>i'm traveling alone and should probably hook-up with an organized trip, 
>either through a kayaking club or an outfitter.  i'm coming from the east 
>coast and i will need to rent a boat--
>
>i would appreciate collective wisdom and suggestions for trips, outfitters, 
>and kayaking clubs.  unless you think your ideas will benefit the list, 
>please feel free to mail me personally.
>
>thanks in advance-
>amigh mariani
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