Westlake Lake in Westlake Village, California, transforms every year into a vibrant playground for paddling enthusiasts during the Annual Paddlefest. This event gathers kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders, and canoeists for a day of waterborne excitement on a calm 125-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills and oak groves.

The lake’s surface dares you forward, offering smooth waters ideal for both newcomers finding their balance and seasoned paddlers testing their speed and control. The Paddlefest isn’t just a race; it’s a community celebration with demo zones, safety workshops, and family-friendly races, making it accessible to all skill levels. Whether you seek to glide quietly on the water or challenge yourself in competitive heats, this event meets your pace.

Practical details matter here. The lake’s perimeter trail stretches roughly 2.5 miles, flat and paved, perfect for spectators on foot or bike. Watercraft launch points are well marked, and event staff emphasize safety with designated zones and rescue teams on standby. Hydration is key under the Southern California sun, so bring water and sun protection even though the lake offers brief, welcome breezes.

Early spring or late fall offer the smoothest waters and mildest temperatures, minimizing wind gusts that occasionally push paddlers off course. Footwear for water and trail access is important: closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sandals will protect your feet during launching and portaging. If you intend to participate, arriving early is advised for gear setup and warm-up.

The Paddlefest’s environment is fiercely itself—open water that shifts with the wind and a landscape that watches quietly with its swaying live oaks. Watch for local wildlife: osprey patrol the skies, occasionally diving for fish, while turtles sunbathe lazily on logs near the shore. These moments of life punctuate the event with natural rhythms.

For photographers, the calm morning light captures brilliant reflections on the water, while late afternoon brings golden hues coloring paddles and smiling faces. The west shore offers sweeping views of the lake’s far edge, ideal for capturing the event’s energy and its connection to the natural world.

Westlake Paddlefest is a practical plunge into paddle sports wrapped in communal spirit and nature’s quiet intensity. Whether you watch from shore or paddle in the timbre of the lake’s wind and current, it invites you to meet an adventure that's as approachable as it is compelling.