This paddle adventure celebrates the beauty of the Napa Valley and the journey of waterfowl along the Pacific Flyway that call the San Pablo Bay their home year round. Extending from Alaska to South America, it is estimated that 60 percent of the entire Pacific Flyway and 20 percent of North America’s waterfowl population migrates throughout California. In the 15,200 acre Napa Sonoma Marshes located in the northern reach of the San Pablo Bay, nowhere else in the world do so many waterfowl migrate on such a small wetland base. Consisting of a variety of habitats, including sloughs, tidal and freshwater ponds and seasonally flooded wetlands, the San Pablo Bay offers remarkably good viewing of this natural phenomenon.
Napa Valley Paddle’s Carneros Wildlife Preserve Kayak & SUP Adventure will to take you to the center of migratory action where you will enjoy the peace and beauty of birds in their natural habitat. Set to a champagne vineyard backdrop and accessible only by water, paddlers glide across the tide with Mt. Tamalpais and Mt. Diablo looming large on the horizon. Twist and turn through Hudeman slough, spy on red-tail hawks and golden eagles hunting from the groves of trees over the marsh, spot migratory birds like American green-winged teal, buffleheads, gadwalls and Canada geese. Perfect for beginner paddlers and intermediate paddlers alike, this guided, moderate level tour is not one to miss during your stay in Napa. Add on a wine tasting, charcuterie & cheese platter or boxed lunch to enjoy post paddle.
Highlights
- Complimentary paddle lesson on land and in water
- Scenic wetland, marsh and urban views from the water
- Paddle alongside native and migratory birds
- Enjoy the personalized attention of a professional guide and a small group
- Top-of-the-line paddle equipment
What you can expect
Your adventure begins at the scheduled launch time at a location to be determined by our guide. Most of our launch locations do not have changing facilities, so come prepared to get into the water, leaving behind anything you care about losing on the water. After checking in with our guide, you will be fitted for a life-preserver, given a paddle and fit for your kayak or SUP. Most of our fleet consists of sit-on-top single and tandem kayaks and stand up paddle boards that are stable and well suited for beginners. They also have compartments and bungee straps for locking down your water bottles and belongings. If you prefer more advanced equipment, it is available, please let us know prior to your arrival. Once all participants are fitted for equipment, our guide will discuss paddling in the Carneros Wildlife Preserve, water safety and instruction on SUP or kayak paddling. From there, your adventure begins on water. You can expect to spend 2 hours on the water exploring the northern reach of the San Pablo Bay with our knowledgeable guide at your side.
Trip Gallery
