About us
With Canoe and Kayak Paddlers strangers are welcomed as friends and friends become like family. We are the only FIVE STAR rated paddling Group in the SF Bay Area. Our group is good for recreational canoe and kayak paddlers. We feature paddling with friendly folks once you know the basics. We are not a guide service therefore you must already have basic paddling skills.
Our trips are intended to be friendly and social for people who have paddling experience. Trips vary from easy, appropriate for almost anyone, to trips which require a moderate level of physical fitness and Intermediate boating skill. We seldom do "advanced" level trips. However, all paddlers must expect and be prepared for sudden changes in weather and currents which are common in the SF Bay Area.
Most trips are appropriate for canoes and kayaks. Canoes of 15 to 17 feet are common and touring kayaks not less than 12 feet, our trips do not allow folding boats, inflatable boats or SUP's. Our trips are four to six hours long and between six and twelve miles in length, and include a lunch stop along the shore. We paddle reservoirs, lakes, rivers, SF Bay, creeks, sloughs, and estuaries.
To join us you need basic skills including getting in and out of your boat, paddling in a straight line and being able to steer and control your boat in windy conditions. You should be in normal physical condition, able to paddle at an easy pace for an hour or two at a stretch without a real break. You need to be able to climb unassisted in and out of your boat in a variety of places, including steep banks, high docks, etc., and you must be able to keep pace with other paddlers.
Canoe and Kayak Paddlers is totally non-commercial. We are not a guide service. All activities are simply opportunities for boaters with appropriate skills to paddle together. The trip coordinators are not required to have training in boating or outdoor safety or carry emergency equipment. We are not experts.
All water sports are potentially dangerous. Participants must assess the appropriateness of their own physical condition, skills, and equipment for any activity, and make their own decisions about safety. If you are not sure if your skills and equipment are appropriate for a trip discuss it with the trip coordinator before starting on a trip. We recommend that all paddlers take lessons in boat handling, safety, and rescue. A life jacket must be worn while on the water.
Our goals:
· Share paddling as a safe, enjoyable, and congenial experience
· Introduce members to new places to paddle
· Create opportunities for members to increase their paddling proficiency
· Offer a central communication hub through our website
· Provide social, informational, and recreational gatherings associated with the sport of paddling
Upcoming events
6
Alameda Island, Circumnavigate - Trip Rated L3
Location not specified yetTo paddle with Canoe and Kayak Paddlers you must be a member of Western Sea Kayakers Club and have signed the annual waiver:
Join club: https://www.westernseakayakers.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=391318
Waiver: https://form.jotform.com/JLAagency/western-sea-kayakers-waiverLaunch location: To Be Determined based wind direction and speed
Probable launch locations: Encinal OR Grand Street ramp
Meetup time: To Be Determined based on wind and launch locationMEET TIME AND LAUNCH LOCATION WILL BE PUBLISHED ON JUNE 5TH
No inflatables, Oru’s, or SUP’s,
Minimum boat length 14 feet. Limited to 8 experienced paddlers.The trip circumnavigates Alameda Island. We will stop for a short lunch break near the half-way point. The trip offers exceptional views of the San Francisco skyline as well as the SF Bay. Distance is about 15.5 miles About 8 miles of this trip is in SF Bay, so expect wind, waves and eddies.
This trip is for experienced SF Bay Paddlers. Due to the distance 15.5 miles, SF Bay eddies, normal winds and waves, this is NOT a trip for Beginners. Dress for immersion, have a properly outfitted sea kayak with deck lines, carry all requisite safety gear including a tow rope and a VHF Marine Radio (recommended) be proficient at assisted rescues (both as rescuer and rescue’ ) and capable of paddling in wind waves (+/- 24 inches) and into a 15+kt headwind for 3 miles.
Launching will be from a beach, the lunch stop will be a boat ramp/docks. Restrooms and water are available at both locations. Wheels are always handy.PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water.
Rain or bad weather may cancel this trip. Check your email or updated information and changes.
This trip is sponsored by WESTERN SEA KAYAKERS CLUB
Trip Rating L3 explained
This trip is good for Intermediate paddlers. Expect waves to 2.5 ft, wind near 20 mph. Steering and forward progress requires good boat-handling skills, edging, balancing and bracing skills. We will stay within 1 mile of a shore line, where currents will be about 2.5 mph. Total distance 12 to 18 miles with a short break(s) for snacks or lunch. Recommended skills are forward, reverse, sweep strokes; bow rudder, draw and bracing strokes. Paddlers can perform deepwater rescue as swimmer or rescuer (in waves to 2.5 ft), maintain a 3.4 mph pace for up to 2 hours, and understand basic chart reading and compass use.2 attendees
Alameda, Grand Street ramp to MLK Shoreline Park, rated L1 EASY
2098 Grand St, Alameda, CA, USTo paddle with Canoe and Kayak Paddlers you must be a member of Western Sea Kayakers Club and have signed the annual waiver:
Join club: https://www.westernseakayakers.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=391318
Waiver: https://form.jotform.com/JLAagency/western-sea-kayakers-waiverMeetup: 9:30 AM, on the water 10:15 sharp to ride the tide.
Address: Grand Street Boat Launch, 2098 Grand Street · AlamedaNo inflatables, Oru’s, or SUP’s. Minimum boat length is 12 ft.
This paddle will launch from Grand Street Boat Ramp (Alameda), take short side trip for a view of SF skyline, then proceed to MLK Park. The lunch stop will be at MLK Regional Shoreline Park near the Oakland Airport. This paddle begins in an urban/industrial area and then opens into the Arrowhead Marsh bird preserve, which is a stopover on the Pacific Flyway and is part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve
Distance is around 8 miles round trip with the lunch break in the middle. This should be an easy paddle suitable for those with good basic skills. Launching and landing will be from docks/boat ramp. Recreational kayaks are appropriate.
Wind is frequent in this area, check the forecast. If the wind is greater than 15 mph, we will stay in the Estuary and paddle the Alameda shoreline and Coast Guard Island to the High Street Bridge.
Launch and parking are free. Restrooms are available in both areas. There is a picnic area at MLK Park.
Rain or bad weather may cancel this trip. Check your email prior to the paddle, for updated information and changes.
PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water.
This trip is sponsored by WESTERN SEA KAYAKERS CLUB
Trip Rating L1 explained
These trips are for everyone, even experienced senior paddlers who prefer flat water with light breeze within swimming distance to shore, no current and waves less than 4 inches. Total distance 5 to 7 miles with a short break for snacks or lunch. Paddlers should be able to enter and exit their boat unassisted from shore or boat dock and have a Forward and Reverse stroke.Trips are in calm, protected areas, such as lakes, lazy rivers, sloughs, or paddling near the beach. If the wind begins to blow, you plan to head for shore. You do not wish to do deep water rescues, so your safety depends on staying within easy swimming distance of easily accessible shorelines.
5 attendees
9th Annual High Sierra Trip – June 22 to 30
Sunset Union Campground, Fashoda Way and Ice House Rd. 95726, Riverton, CA, USTo paddle with Canoe and Kayak Paddlers you must be a member of Western Sea Kayakers Club and have signed the annual waiver:
Join club: https://www.westernseakayakers.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=391318
Waiver: https://form.jotform.com/JLAagency/western-sea-kayakers-waiverFind us at campsite # 100 at Sunset-Union Valley Campground at Union Valley Reservoir. Nearest address: intersection Fashoda Way and Ice House Rd. 95726
No inflatable boats, folding boats or SUP’s. Minimum boat length 12 feet.
Join the fun on our annual High Sierra trip. Our base camp this year is again at Sunset-Union Valley Campground, located just 17 miles off Hwy 50 in the Sierra Nevada, elevation about 4900'. There are 5 lakes within a 15 mile radius with over 40 miles of shoreline to explore.
Website: Information and Campground Maps:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd917865.pdf
I recommend you copy the map on this website as we will paddle 4 lakes in this area.Camping: This campground fills up during the summer. Reservations can be made 6 months from YOUR arrival date https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232083, or call (877-444-6777) to make reservations.
There are single sites, $28/night ($14 with senior pass) that can hold 2 vehicles and up to 6 people, You are responsible for your own reservations, meals and camping equipment. Additional camping available at nearby Fashoda Campground, on a first come first serve basis. When you have a reservation, let me know the site number and dates you will paddle. You will need wheels so I recommend bringing them.
We will gather each evening at 5 pm to share stories and plan the next day paddle Bring your chair and favorite beverage. On Wednesday June 24 we will gather at 5 pm for a pot luck dinner, so bring something to share.
Facilities: The Sunset campground has 131 sites, and many can accommodate large RV's, NO electrical hookups. Each site has picnic table, fire grill and drinking water nearby. Vault toilets are the norm. Coin-operated showers are available. Firewood can be purchased from the camp host, about $10 per bundle. Nearby Icehouse Resort (6 miles) offers a few cabins, restaurant, gas, and limited groceries. The Fashoda Campground has 30 sites for tents only and is next to Sunset Campground. Nearby Icehouse Campground has 82 camp sites.
Toilets are available at the launch areas. Pack a lunch; we will stop along the shore to eat.
Tentative Paddling Schedule:
June 22 travel day, no paddle scheduled
June 23 to 29 To be determined
June 30 travel day, no paddle scheduledMeet at 9:30 AM at the designated launch site. We launch OTW at 10:00 AM, trip length will be between 4 to 5 hours.
Directions: Take highway 50 east from Sacramento, through Placerville, and through Pollock Pines. Continue east on Hwy 50, for 8.3 miles to the Crystal Basin Recreation Area sign. Turn left onto Icehouse Road and go 14 miles to Fashoda Way. Turn left drive to the campground/boat ramp.
PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water, no exceptions !
This trip is sponsored by Western Sea Kayakers
Boat Ramp Etiquette
- DO use the staging area to prepare your boat and equipment.
- DO respect the traffic lines.
- DO bring a friend to help.
- DO bring wheels to transport boat and equipment to the ramp
- DO unload and load equipment in the prep area, not on the launch ramp.
- NO NOT approach the ramp unprepared; wait until it is your turn.
- DO NOT prep your boat or unload equipment in the ramp lane.
- DO NOT socialize while on the ramp.
- If you spend more than 5 minutes on the ramp you are hoggin’ the ramp.
11 attendees
Rescue Practice at Half Moon Bay Saturday June 27, 2026
Half Moon Bay Kayaking, 2 Johnson Pier, Half Moon Bay, CA, USHosted by: Jim Murdy
To paddle with Canoe and Kayak Paddlers you must be a member of Western Sea Kayakers Club and have signed the annual waiver:
Join club: https://www.westernseakayakers.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=391318
Waiver: https://form.jotform.com/JLAagency/western-sea-kayakers-waiverMeet time: 9 am; 10 am on the beach safety talk and ready to paddle; On the water 10:30 am.
Location: in front of HMB Kayaks, 2 Johnson Pier, Half Moon Bay
Looking for an opportunity to practice exiting a sit in kayak, performing a self rescue or assisted rescue? Then this event is for you!
Sit in rentals are available from Half Moon Bay kayaks
Off the water planned for 2:00 but can go longer
YOU WILL GET WET
Agenda:- Introductions
- Safety briefing and gear check
- Swim in full gear, adjust gear afterwards
- Short paddle to practice location (Pillar Point Harbor beach unless windy)
- Review skirt removal options (practice later)
- Wet exit practice, required if you have not done a wet exit yet. Recommended if you have new skirt or boat, and anyone can just practice
- T Rescues
- Paddle Float rescues
- Scramble Rescue
- Bow Rescue
- If time allows Hand of god and scoop
- Paddle back
Required:
PFD and paddle float.
Sit in kayak with bulkheads or float bags in both bow and stern.
Helmet suggested
Dress for immersion, you will get wet
Recommended: Drysuit is best or wetsuit/paddle jacket with multiple layers of polyester/fleece.
Bring snacks/Hydration. Chocolate likely to appearGeneral Info:
Any questions: contact me Jim Murdy zilbersurfer@gmail.com or 408 206 2377
This is posted in both club calendar and meetup Please register in the club calendar so we know who is coming.This is not a formal class, but rescue practice with experienced kayakers helping less experienced boaters, everyone learns!
For new/not fully geared paddlers, Half Moon Bay Kayaks has a limited number of sit in kayaks and will rent to newer paddlers if they know they are part of this group paddle. HMB also rents wet suits (included with a boat rental) Best is to call 650 773 6101 Arrive by 9 to rent in order to be ready by 10. https://www.hmbkayak.com/Some members of club may have spare boats to loan, so respond and note if you are looking for a loaner with your size.
Past sessions have been a lot of fun and learning
I will be looking for experienced paddlers to attend to share their knowledge and a co-lead or two.I would encourage as many people as possible to attend, as
- Many of us do not practice as much as we should, this is focused practice time
- Gives a chance to practice if you have new gear and/or boats
- it is lot of fun and good way to chat and get to know club members new and not so new
- Everyone has insights to add, the more people the better the practice is
- Chance to practice rescues, all to better prepared for a real rescue
- good time to push limits of secondary stability, rather than just flip do a brace, scull etc until you can't recover
- There will be chocolate
If there are enough paddlers to split off, it is possible a more experienced group can practice in rougher water, but we will be scheduling an open water/advanced rescue practice in the fall.
This event is sponsored by Western Sea Kayakers Club
5 attendees
Past events
401
