Exerpted from 
Guide to Sea Kayaking Central and Northern California
Copyright 1999, The Globe Pequot Press. All rights reserved. No Part of this book may be reproduced or transmited in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording except as expressly permitted by the publisher.
 

INTRODUCTION

Renowned for its world-class scenery, the coastline of Central and
Northern California spans three of the nation’s twelve National Marine
Sanctuaries, two wilderness areas, and one National Seashore. It’s no
accident this area has received so much protection—it is among the
most spectacular and wildlife-rich marine habitats on the planet—and
it’s no accident we feature it here. Although there are literally hundreds
of lakes, rivers, and marshes to paddle farther inland, when we were
asked to write a book of “best trips” in this region, our thoughts naturally
drifted to the coast. Although we also include a handful of the area’s
more peaceful and scenic lakes and rivers, by far the best paddling in
the state is on salt water—from the quiet, bird-filled estuaries to the
protected bays to the exposed headlands of the open Pacific....

Vast horizons open up to any paddler willing to leave the security of the
sloughs and harbors, and not all of them are limited to advanced rough -water
kayakers. Many sheltered coves offer safe launching beaches with
access to miles of intermediate paddling.... 

This book is about exploring both the swimming-pool-calm backwaters as well as venturing out along the open coast. Although camping is limited, we’ve included places where overnight trips are possible. Roger also drops in his passion for kayak surfing and rock gardens, mentioning some of his favorite surfing and rough -water play spots.... With a little time in the cockpit and some training, much of this amazing watery wonderland can be yours to explore.

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