Reputation for Excellence
San Francisco Bay Area
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Route
18: |
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Exerpted
from: Guide to Sea Kayaking Central & Northern
California |
| Richardson Bay offers aspiring intermediates a great introduction to open-bay paddling with all the rewards and challenges of the greater bay--scenery, tidal currents, exposure, boat traffic, fog, and wind--in a more protected setting. Less-experienced kayakers can stay near the shoreline or confine their exploration to the back of the bay, while more-experienced paddlers can venture out toward "the Gate" (the Golden Gate Bridge)... or cross ...to Angel Island for a day trip or overnight camping.... ( for full text, please see book ) |
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: Views of the Golden Gate....
TRIP RATING:
Beginner: 2-5 miles, depending on conditions; stay along
shore in Richardson Bay or explore the salt marsh.....
Intermediate: 5-15 miles. For those with previous experience
paddling in currents and strong open-water rescue skills.... A trip
leader with previous local experience is suggested....
Advanced: ... tide rips play in 3- to 6-knot currents
at Yellow Bluff....
TIDAL INFORMATION: Complex tidal flows make San Francisco Bay the place to learn about paddling in currents....
CAUTIONS: Boat traffic, strong currents, and nasty tide rips.... strong wind...heavy fog. Don't cross... if you're not comfortable reading tide and current tables or navigating by compass in fog...confused seas and surf....
TRIP DIRECTIONS:
Mile 0.5: When you reach the channel, bear right and follow
it ... staying well to the right...to avoid boat traffic. Sidetrips:
...follow the shore into the back of the bay...to explore 3 miles...into
the protected marshes....
Mile 2.5: ...is a good place to reassess conditions for
crossing Raccoon Strait. Caution: Be aware of strong currents
that sometimes sweep toward the point from several hundred yards inside
Richardson Bay...tide rips, submerged rocks, and...wind can create challenging
conditions....
Mile 3.25: A small beach...gives access to the trail to
the two kayak campsites....
WHERE TO EAT & STAY:
Restaurants: Among Sausalito's many choices is Margaritaville
(415-331-3226)....
Lodging: Reservations required well in advance at Holiday Inn
Express on the water in the back of Richardson Bay...or...Fireside Motel....
Camping: Check with rangers on Angel Island....to reserve the
two kayak campsites....
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©Eskape Sea Kayaking 1998, Last Updated: 10/10/07