Kayaking in San Diego

Kayaking in San Diego’s waters is a unique way to explore the coastlines & bays. Learn when & where to kayak, where to rent a kayak, top kayaking spots & more!
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Kayaking in San Diego
Kayaking in San Diego
When to Go Kayaking
Featured Activity
Rent a Kayak/Take a Tour
The Best Places to Kayak
Save on Gear
Tips for KayaKnow Befking
Where to Stay

Explore The Coast: Kayaking in San Diego Delivers Unforgettable Experiences

Two Kayakers in Sail Bay, Mission BayKayaking Out of the Morning Fog in Mission Bay

As a longtime resident of San Diego, I can confidently say that the area has a lot to offer visitors and locals alike!

Many of our most popular activities are those that can be enjoyed outside in our year-round sunny weather, some of which are water sports! My personal favorites are surfing, stand-up paddle board (SUP) and of course kayaking!

Kayaking is a great way to get out on the water without the need for a noisy motor. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, and individuals and can be enjoyed for pure recreation but also for fishing, hunting, and transportation.

In San Diego, kayaking can be an incredible way to explore the coastline of the Pacific Ocean as well as our beautiful bays – the San Diego Bay and Mission Bay!

Beautiful Sunset Kayak in Mission Bay
Beautiful Sunset Kayak in Mission Bay

Why Kayaking?

Similar to a canoe, kayaks are lighter, trimmer, and easier to navigate.

While both use a paddle to propel it forward, the kayaks’ design makes it an accessible way to explore areas like San Diego Bay, Mission Bay, and La Jolla.

One of the best things about kayaking is that it’s great for all skill levels.

Early Morning Kayak in Sail Bay, Part of Mission Bay
Early Morning Kayak in Sail Bay, Part of Mission Bay

Different Types of Kayaks

To keep the details as high level as possible, there are typically two basic options of kayak configurations to choose from.

  • Single seat kayaks
  • Two seater (tandem) kayaks

Choosing the right kayak for you and your group depends on a few different factors such as what you’ll be doing, where you will go, and who will be in your group.

There are different kayaks available for long distance tours, fishing, whitewater, sea, and rivers kayaking.

Fishing While Kayaking off of Vacation Isle in Mission Bay
Fishing While Kayaking off of Vacation Isle in Mission Bay

Renting a Kayak

If you’ve got kayaking experience and are just looking for a kayak rental in San Diego, we’ve got you covered!

The Go City San Diego pass has two great options, both at discounted prices when you use code GVSD5OFF at checkout.

The Coronado 90-minute Tandem Kayak Rental by SUP and Saddle provides the kayak, paddle and life vests. The 90-minute La Jolla kayak rental version also includes a two-person kayak and all you’ll need to explore.

Or if you’d rather go on a guided kayaking tour, there’s a version that includes the seven caves of La Jolla and a version that includes a kayak trip and snorkeling!

If you’re interested in the best times of year or conditions for kayaking, where to kayak in San Diego or some kayaking tips, keep reading!

Sea Lions Sunning Themselves at the Childrens Pool
Sea Lions Sunning Themselves at the Childrens Pool

What Can You See While Kayaking in San Diego

San Diego’s year-round water sports means you’ll get to experience something different every season.

Marine Life

Kayaking brings you close to our famous seals and sea lions as they sun on the rocks or swim alongside you.

During winter and spring, the water may be colder and choppier, but this is a great time to see the whales as they migrate through the area.

While less common, you might even get to see the playful dolphins and gentle sea turtles while on your tour.

The Surf Can Get Very Good at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
The Surf Can Get Very Good at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Natural, Coastal Beauty

Viewing San Diego’s stunning cliffs, rock formations, and sea caves from the water makes for a timeless, unique, and breathtaking experience.

Being able to get close to these natural formations, and our kelp forests, lets you truly appreciate the beauty of San Diego. From the largest cliff face to the smallest creature in our underwater ecosystem, you won’t want to miss this incredible view.

More Museum Boats at the Maritime Musuem on San Diego Bay
More Museum Boats at the Maritime Musuem on San Diego Bay

Famous & Historic Landmarks

While heading out on your tour, you may even get to see some of San Diego’s most popular sights.

From the beautiful harbor to our military vessels, your tour may take you closer to these sights than you ever thought possible.

Local Tips
Seasonality
Summer and fall are prime time for kayaking in San Diego, but even on the best days, a full wetsuit may be in order and swell and wind conditions should be taken into consideration.

The Best Time of the Year to Go Kayaking in San Diego

There really is no such thing as a bad time to plan a kayaking trip in San Diego!

Kayakers, Snorkelers and Swimmers in La Jolla
Kayakers, Snorkelers and Swimmers in La Jolla

Kayaking in the Summer

Summer in San Diego is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures averaging in the high 70s along the coast. This means the weather is usually warm enough for kayakers to wear their bathing suits rather than having to wear a wetsuit.

Summer is also the best time to glimpse the sea turtles in the area.

Snorkelers, Divers and Kayakers Enjoying the La Jolla Underwater Park
Snorkelers, Divers and Kayakers Enjoying the La Jolla Underwater Park

Kayaking in the Fall

The fall months provide an enjoyable kayaking experience because of the warm weather and water temperature. Plus, fall in San Diego means fewer people visiting the area for a more intimate feel of the area.

Fall is also a great time to see pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds as they migrate through the area.

Kayaking in the Morning Fog in Sail Bay, Mission Bay
Kayaking in the Morning Fog in Sail Bay, Mission Bay

Kayaking in the Winter & Spring

While summer and fall months have optimal kayaking conditions, travelers can still go during spring and winter. Kayakers might prefer to wear a wetsuit because of the wind and colder ocean water.

The good news is that winter is the time to see the gray whales in the area. Spring is great for spotting dolphins and sea lion pups.

Clear Water at the La Jolla Underwater Park
Clear Water at the La Jolla Underwater Park

What Are the Ideal Kayaking Conditions?

You should always consider the weather when planning a kayaking venture.

You’ll want to go when the water is calm, visibility is good, and there is a light breeze. Be mindful of tidal patterns. However, when in doubt, local rental companies and lifeguards can give you the best advice on when to go out.

Entrance to the Grande Colonial La Jolla
Entrance to the Grande Colonial La Jolla

Where To Stay When Kayaking in San Diego

The person who spends an entire day paddling through the water deserves to rest at one of the best hotels convenient to one of my favorite kayaking locations in San Diego.

The Grande Colonial La Jolla perfectly combines historic charm, modern luxury, and professional service. This upscale hotel is big on amenities and with an onsite restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, you may never want to leave.

Of course, when you do, you’ll be only a 6-10 minute walk away from La Jolla Cove.

Featured Activity

La Jolla Underwater Park: Kayak and Snorkel Tour
La Jolla Kayak & Snorkel Tour
Jump on a kayak and follow an experienced guide to find the best snorkeling spot in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve! On this 2-hour tour, you can expect to see a variety of fish and other marine animals!
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Renting a Kayak or Taking a Kayaking Tour

San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline, plus its bays, gives you a variety of choices for kayaking. Visitors can kayak on the ocean, protected harbors, and bays in order to experience the beauty of San Diego around them.

Perhaps you’re ready and just need a kayak rental? We have multiple options for rentals.

Or maybe a guided tour is more your speed? Our favorite tours go above and beyond to deliver everything you could ever want from a kayaking experience.

La Jolla Caves Kayaking

La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves

There’s a reason this tour is so popular with locals and tourists. There’s marine life, sea caves, cliff formations, and so much more.

The La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves delivers a spectacular educational and wondrous kayaking tour in a daytime version and also a sunset kayaking trip as well!

Your guide will bring you and your group up close and to all seven caves of La Jolla Ecological Reserve. With three different habitats - rocky reefs, sandy flats, and kelp beds - you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area, 75 million year old features, and, of course, San Diego’s abundant marine life.

Keep an eye out for dolphins!

Highlights:

  • Paddling through the La Jolla Ecological Reserve
  • The Sea Cliffs
  • The Seven Caves: White Lady, Little Sister, Shopping Cart, Sea Surprize, Arch Cave, Sunny Jim’s Cave, and Clam’s Cave

Why We Love It

This tour is perfect for everyone - even if you’ve never done kayaking before!

Before you begin your tour, you’ll have a brief lesson and safety orientation so you can go out on the water, confident and ready.

Plus, you’ll have access to the La Jolla sea caves, something no other tour company can offer. It’ll just be you, your guide, your group, and plenty of sea lions, seals, and the brightly colored Garibaldi.

Sunset of the Coronado Bridge Over San Diego Bay

Coronado 90-Minute Tandem Kayak Rental

The Coronado 90-Minute Tandem Kayak Rental lets you explore the San Diego Bay at your own pace.

This rental makes sense if you want to see the San Diego skyline, the Coronado Bridge, and the USS Midway directly from the water.

The rental included a 2-person kayak, paddles and life vests. It is part of the Go City San Diego pass which when purchased using discount code GVSD5OFF can be had at a discount.

Do note that two Go Passes are required for the rental.

Highlights:

  • Coronado Bridge
  • Naval Station North Island
  • The Embarcadero

Why We Love It

Any chance to see the skyline, PETCO Park, or the iconic Hotel del Coronado from the water is a win in my book! If you want to kayak on your own without a tour and the San Diego Bay or coast off of Coronado Island sounds interesting to you, then this is your kayak rental!

Snorkeling Amongst Kelp Near the Seven Caves in La Jolla

La Jolla: 2.5-Hour Kayak and Snorkel Tour

This is the tour for adventurous groups looking for a combination experience.

The La Jolla: 2.5-Hour Kayak and Snorkel Tour, 2-tours-in-1, lets you do and see more of La Jolla’s caves and the Ecological Reserve.

Your kayaking tour will have you paddling through the sandstone caves before starting your snorkeling portion in the Ecological Reserve. This is the perfect tour to see Goldfish Point, Emerald Cove, and the Marine Room up close.

In the summer months in particular, you’ll get to see the reef and sandy flats teaming with marine life.

Highlights:

  • La Jolla Ecological Reserve
  • La Jolla Shores
  • The Reefs & Caves

Why We Love It

I love this tour because a guide makes the experience easy and explains what you’re looking at as you go. Also, the snorkeling portion lets you get closer to Garibaldi, leopard sharks, and more.

It’s also a plus that you’ll get to use your snorkel gear for the rest of the day to continue exploring without your guide after the tour.

La Jolla Caves Kayaking

La Jolla 90-Minute Kayak Rental

The La Jolla 90-Minute Kayak Rental includes everything you need to explore the La Jolla Beaches and coastline.

With this rental you can paddle to the seven caves, seal watch, and explore the coast all at your leisure.

This rental is great for kayakers confident enough to go out without a guide who wants to spot wildlife, view famous landmarks, and marvel at the coastline without worrying about someone else’s schedule.

As part of the Go City San Diego pass, you can combine the kayak rental with a snorkel rental or bike rental as well as popular attraction throughout town such as the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, SeaWorld San Diego in Mission Bay Park, and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps just up the way in La Jolla.

Use the discount code GVSD5OFF to save even more, just make sure to get two Go Passes for the kayak rental as it is a two seater kayak.

Highlights:

  • La Jolla Ecological Reserve
  • La Jolla Beaches at Your Own Pace
  • Reefs, Caves & Varied Marine Life

Mother and Child Snorkeling at La Jolla Cove

Bonus Tour! San Diego: La Jolla Cove Guided Snorkeling Tour

Since we are talking about getting out on the water in a kayak, I figured I’d share one of my favorite complimenting tours in the same area as much of the best kayaking in San Diego - La Jolla!

The San Diego: La Jolla Cove Guided Snorkeling Tour brings you directly to one of the best snorkeling spots in San Diego - La Jolla Protected Marine Sanctuary!

During this 1.5-hour tour, you’ll travel with your guide from the protected waters of the Marine Sanctuary to Emerald Cove and the ancient sea caves. You’ll get to swim alongside the colorful fish and octopi, plus get close to seals, sea lions, and stingrays.

Snorkeling through the area and being able to admire the abundant sea life and natural rock formations is a magical experience all on its own.

Why We Love It

Our team really loves supporting our local marine sanctuaries and protected waters.

Not only will your support help keep these places open for generations to come, you’ll get to explore the underwater ecosystem for a peaceful, one-of-a-kind experience.

Don’t forget! Spring is baby sea lion season. This tour will get you close to the swimming pups at that time of year.

Popular Hotels Nearby
Popular Hotels
Price
Bahia Resort Hotel
$199
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The Dana on Mission Bay
$179
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San Diego Mission Bay Resort
$259
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Paradise Point Resort & Spa
$259
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The Best Places to Kayak in San Diego

Large Open Beach at La Jolla Shores
Large Open Beach at La Jolla Shores

While visitors can kayak anywhere along the San Diego coast, there are a few notable launch areas.

My favorite locations to go kayaking in the San Diego area are La Jolla Shores, Coronado Island, Mission Bay, and Carlsbad Lagoon.

Where you set out for a kayaking trip really depends on what you want to see as well as your skill level.

Kayaking in Front of the Bahia Resort in Mission Bay
Kayaking in Front of the Bahia Resort in Mission Bay

Beginners & Families

Mission Bay is perfect for those looking for calm waters and a protected environment.

The bay is completely man made and designed to keep water variations to a minimum, meaning it’s a great place to try kayaking for the first time!

Plus, Mission Bay has several shallow parts around the bay if you need the security of being able to stand in the water.

Mosaic of a Bat Ray at La Jolla Shores
Mosaic of a Bat Ray at La Jolla Shores

Wildlife Enthusiasts

La Jolla Shores lets wildlife enthusiasts get close to seal lions, leopard sharks, and colorful fish while offering views of San Diego’s dynamic coastline.

The stunning coastline makes for breathtaking views and sea caves are something you can only really visit from the waters in this area.

The USS Midway As Seen from the San Diego Bay
The USS Midway As Seen from the San Diego Bay

Skyline and History Buffs

If you want to kayak in the protected areas of the San Diego Bay, like near Shelter Island, where you can take in views of the San Diego skyline and Coronado bridge, plus USS Midway and Star of India in the distance, then kayaking off Coronado Island is the place for you.

You could also consider ocean kayaking off the Pacific Ocean side for views of the Hotel Del Coronado and historic buildings that dot the shoreline.

Kayak Ride with Go Pass!
La Jolla - 90-Minute Kayak Rental
La Jolla 90-Minute Kayak Rental
When visiting La Jolla, use your Go Pass and hop on a tandem kayak ride! This 90-minute ride from La Jolla Beach takes you on an adventure to see all the area has to offer. Check out the famous seven caves and sea lions while enjoying the SoCal sun!
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Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Tips for Kayaking in San Diego

Snorkelers and Divers at the La Jolla Cove
Snorkelers and Divers at the La Jolla Cove

  • Safety First - Despite your experience level, it’s always important to remain safe while kayaking. Each kayaker should wear a personal flotation device at all times - and a signaling device if you are planning to go offshore.
  • Don’t Get Caught in a Storm - Always check the weather before going kayaking.
  • New to Kayaking? Book a Tour - If you’re new to kayaking, plan to book a kayaking tour or aim to go when the water is calm.
  • Don’t Get Burned - Be sure to apply sunscreen, even if the weather is overcast.

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Stay Nearby

Bahia Resort Hotel
Family Friendly
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Bahia Resort Hotel
from $199 / night
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The Dana on Mission Bay
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The Dana on Mission Bay
from $179 / night
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San Diego Mission Bay Resort
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San Diego Mission Bay Resort
from $259 / night
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Paradise Point Resort & Spa
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from $259 / night
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Tours & Adventures
Explore San Diego Bay
Explore San Diego Bay
$59 per person
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Guided La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour
Guided La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour
$144 per 2 people
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