Top 5 Kayaking Spots in San Diego
- Shelter Island
Shelter Island, near the north end of San Diego Bay, is a large man-made island that protects a significant marina from wave action. There are a mix of rock jetties and sandy beaches on the island’s fringes. The island’s centre is dominated by a big boat ramp. The area’s surrounding sand beach is ideal for usage as a put-in.
Shelter Island is located directly on the busy San Diego Bay entrance, so it is hardly a pleasant paddle. Paddling among the tens of thousands of ships that call San Diego home is still fascinating. As long as you keep your eyes on the road and stay out of the way, there’s much to see and appreciate. For your own safety, always assume that other boaters can’t see you.
- Glorietta Bay
Even though it is located in the inner harbor, Glorietta Bay is a very tiny peninsula. The park is directly across the street from the Pacific Beach. Do you wish to travel the globe? If you park here, you can launch from either the beach or the park. Then turn around and circle Naval Air Station Island in the opposite direction. Because it is a long paddle in mostly exposed water, this trip should be done on calm days.
- Mission Bay
If you want to be right in the heart of the action, Mission Bay should be your first stop for San Diego paddle boarding. SUPing in Mission Bay is the picture-perfect Southern California experience. The bay is only 10 minutes from downtown San Diego and 15 minutes from the airport, making it an ideal spot for a city SUP adventure.
- Oceanside Harbor
The outer jetty is recommended for more experienced paddlers due to the ocean waves and severe wind surges. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with the opportunity to see whales from your SUP. There are only a few spots on the planet where you can view whales from your paddle board, and it’s every bit as thrilling as you might expect. You might be able to see whales breaching in the distance if you’re lucky. If you need to hire a SUP, go to Oceanside Paddleboard. Grab some delicious fresh seafood nearby after your adventure.
- Harbor Island
It’s possible to have a good day exploring the entire island of Harbor Island. Paddle under Harbor Drive and along the Liberty Station NTC Park (public park) beach to the Liberty Station Boat Ramp on the west end, then return. This route crosses the flight path of San Diego International Airport, which can be interesting. You can launch your kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Spanish Landing Park if you have one. Contact SD Adventure Rentals, which is located on the water beneath the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, if you require rental equipment.