Master paddling and rescue techniques on San Francisco Bay with California Canoe & Kayak’s beginner sea kayaking course at Jack London Square—perfect for building skills and confidence on protected waters.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic physical fitness and be comfortable in water; rescue practice can be strenuous.
Wildlife
History
Jack London Square, originally a shipping and maritime trade hub named after the famous Oakland-born author, carries rich Pacific Coast seafaring traditions.
Conservation
San Francisco Bay’s delicate ecosystems benefit from low-impact paddling tours; California Canoe & Kayak promotes Leave No Trace principles to protect water quality and wildlife.
California Canoe & Kayak
Master paddling and rescue techniques on San Francisco Bay with California Canoe & Kayak’s beginner sea kayaking course at Jack London Square—perfect for building skills and confidence on protected waters.
California Canoe & Kayak is a Richmond, California–based paddling outfitter offering guided tours, skills courses, rescue clinics, and equipment rentals across Richmond and Oakland launch sites. The company operates classes and sessions at Richmond Plunge (a heated pool) and Jack London Square on the Oakland Estuary, providing a range of learning and self-guided experiences for beginners through advanced paddlers.
Programs include beginner Kayak Basics, sit‑on‑top skills and rescue courses, sea kayaking progression (Sea Kayaking II), rolling and warm water rescue classes, and advanced clinics focused on towing and assisted rescue techniques. Rentals are available for three‑hour and full‑day use from Jack London Square, with kayaks and standup paddle boards suited to urban estuary exploration.
Instruction emphasizes hands‑on skill development with small group sizes and personalized feedback; one warm water rescue session is limited to two participants for intensive attention. Several courses allow participants to bring their own kayaks or use provided gear. Guided group trips and private outings are offered for teams and friends seeking a structured paddling experience.
Safety and practical technique training — including assisted rescues, self‑rescues, towing, navigation, and boat control — are central to the curriculum. The outfitter’s mix of pool‑based practice and on‑water sessions supports confident paddling in varied conditions. Clear scheduling, defined locations, and a variety of course levels make California Canoe & Kayak a reliable choice for paddlers looking to learn, rent, or advance their sea kayak skills.
Scheduling and online reservations simplify planning for individuals and groups. Equipment fitting and briefings included.
Locations
Richmond & Oakland
Launch sites at Jack London Square and Richmond Plunge
Tours Offered
11
Range of tours, clinics, and rentals
Small Class Sizes
Intimate sessions
Personalized instruction and focused feedback
Rentals
3-hr & Full-day
Kayaks and standup paddle boards
Book guided tours at Jack London Square, Richmond Plunge pool sessions, or self-guided rentals on the Oakland Estuary.
Wear proper footwear
Closed-toe water shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks and debris both on and off the dock.
Bring sun protection
Sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses are necessary under midday Bay Area sun.
Expect to get wet
Be prepared for spray and potential wet exits—choose quick-drying clothes and bring a change of clothes.
Check wind and tide conditions
Classes run only when winds are below 15 knots and currents manageable; weather impacts safety and comfort.
Closed-toe water shoes
Protect your feet from sharp objects and provide traction on wet docks.
Wetsuit or paddling jacket
Helps retain body heat in cool Bay waters and windy conditions.
spring|fall|winter
Wide-brim hat or beanie
Sun protection in summer or warmth during colder months.
summer|winter
UV-blocking sunglasses with retention strap
Protects eyes from glare off the water and prevents loss if you tip over.