Top 22 places to go kayaking in San Diego
Welcome to the beautiful coastline of San Diego, a kayaker's paradise! With its stunning beaches, picturesque bays, and abundant marine life, San Diego offers a variety of "places to go kayaking." Explore the calm waters of La Jolla Cove, the mesmerizing sea caves, or the serene Mission Bay. Discover the diverse wildlife in the Coronado Islands or paddle through the historic shipyards of San Diego Bay. With so many "places to go kayaking in San Diego," you'll find the perfect spot for an unforgettable adventure!
- 1. Just Kayak - Paddle Board & Kayak Rentals
- 2. Everyday California
- 3. Bike and Kayak Tours — La Jolla
- 4. La Jolla Kayak
- 5. Sun Down Kayaking Company
- 6. West Coast Paddle Board Rentals
- 7. Disco’s Paddle Surf - Kayak and Paddle Board Rentals and Sales
- 8. Hike Bike Kayak Adventures
- 9. Eco Boat Rentals
- 10. San Dog Kayak Adventures and Charter Fishing
- 11. Lake Hodges Visitor Center
- 12. Adventure Water Sports
- 13. SD Adventures - Jet Ski Rental & Boat Rental San Diego
- 14. Mission Bay Stand Up Paddle
- 15. Redline Fishing Kayaks and Paddleboards Sales - Delivered to Your Door
- 16. Crystal Clear Kayak Adventures
- 17. Aqua Adventures Mission Bay Kayaks & Stand Up Paddleboards Rental & Sales
- 18. San Diego Jet Ski and Boat Rentals
- 19. Fastlane Sailing and Kayaking Center
- 20. San Diego Canoe Kayak Team (SDCKT)
- 21. California Paddle Board Tours
- 22. Paddle Board San Diego
1. Just Kayak - Paddle Board & Kayak Rentals
Dog-Friendly Rentals

A family had a great experience with Just Kayak Rentals in San Diego when their 9-year-old son wanted to learn to stand-up paddleboard (SUP). The service provided by the company was exceptional, dropping off the rental right at the beach on time and picking it up when they were finished. The staff was friendly and the process was simple, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience.
2. Everyday California
opportunity to see wildlife like leopard sharks and sea lions

The first tour experience took place in San Diego and was considered the best one. The tour guides, Jayden and Darby, were exceptional, known for their extensive knowledge and ability to make the tour fun and enjoyable. A highlight of the tour was visiting the beautiful sea caves and observing seals up close in their natural habitat.
Another tour experience featured local guides, with Connor being particularly noteworthy. This tour was also a fun and enjoyable experience, and guests were even given the opportunity to jump into the water. The ease and enjoyment of the tour made it a memorable experience.
3. Bike and Kayak Tours — La Jolla
Dolphin and whale watching opportunities

The kayak tour, taking place in an unspecified location, was a fantastic experience for all. Marine life was abundant and the sea caves were a stunning natural sight. The staff were friendly and helpful, making it a great adventure for kayakers of all skill levels.
The highlight of the excursion was kayaking through the caves of La Jolla, located in San Diego. The guides were knowledgeable and contributed to making the experience unforgettable. This activity is highly recommended for anyone seeking a fun outdoor activity in the area.
4. La Jolla Kayak
Breathtaking Ocean Views

Guides Alex and Quincy were knowledgeable and ensured safety during the kayak tour. The tour involved kayaking in the ocean and searching for leopard sharks and other marine life. However, there was a challenge in navigating the ocean tides.
The kayak tour was fun, with exciting paddling to the caves. The guides were helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. However, the tour fell short of expectations regarding the cave exploration as the time spent inside the caves was minimal, less than a minute.
5. Sun Down Kayaking Company

6. West Coast Paddle Board Rentals
Professional instructors

My family recently tried paddle boarding for the first time and we had an amazing experience at a peaceful and exhilarating location, suitable for all ages. The SUP staff was kind, knowledgeable and made our experience even better. I highly recommend this company, as I have been renting equipment from them for several years.
SUP Connection, my preferred place to rent equipment from in San Diego, has an easy online reservation and waiver process. Their staff is always friendly, and their wide and thick boards are great for beginners, providing stability. During my last visit with a friend, she was able to stand up and paddle without falling for the first time. Their location behind Liberty Station is perfect for a quieter experience or for exploring the San Diego Bay.
7. Disco’s Paddle Surf - Kayak and Paddle Board Rentals and Sales
Beautiful Waterfront Views

Kayaking was an enjoyable experience, with well-maintained equipment provided by OEX. I highly recommend them for your kayaking needs. Our group had kayaks for two hours, which was sufficient time to explore the marina and head towards the downtown area. The waters were calm, making it an easy and relaxing trip for all.
OEX employees demonstrated expertise and were supportive throughout the process of getting kayaks ready and returning them. Their assistance contributed to our overall positive experience. The combination of a great company and an ideal kayaking area makes this a strong recommendation for anyone looking for a fun activity.
8. Hike Bike Kayak Adventures
Unique Coastal Hiking Trails

The La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour was an amazing experience. Our tour guide, Ane, was extremely knowledgeable about the history of La Jollen and kept us entertained with her humor throughout the tour.
The guides on the tour were very informative and made the experience truly unforgettable. They provided interesting insights into the sea caves and the surrounding area, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.
9. Eco Boat Rentals
Eco-friendly boat rentals

The staff on this family-friendly adventure were welcoming and knowledgeable, creating a pleasant atmosphere for all. The boats used for the activity were well-maintained, featuring comfortable padded seats and shades to protect passengers from the sun. To enhance the experience, speakers and binoculars were provided for everyone's use. This excursion is highly recommended for those seeking a fun-filled adventure with their loved ones.
This activity catered to everyone in the family, including the four-legged members. Children were thrilled with the ride and enjoyed seeing sea lions in their natural habitat. Pet owners will be delighted to know that dogs were also permitted on the trip, providing an opportunity for both the humans and their canine companions to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery together.
10. San Dog Kayak Adventures and Charter Fishing

11. Lake Hodges Visitor Center
Historic dam and bridge

Lake Hodges Reservoir, located in San Diego, is a popular destination for kayaking due to its stunning rocky cliffs and tree-lined islands surrounded by turquoise waters. In addition to kayaking, the lake and park offer various activities including hiking, birding, horseback riding, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water recreation such as boating, paddle boarding, and canoeing.
The area is also known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts. With an abundance of bird species, Lake Hodges is a popular spot for birdwatching. The park also features numerous trails for hiking and horseback riding, providing opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape and take in the scenic views. Whether you're looking for water activities or land-based adventures, Lake Hodges Reservoir has something for everyone.
12. Adventure Water Sports
Beautiful Mission Bay Views

The Dana hotel was our home base during our vacation. One of my sisters expressed interest in trying jet skiing for the first time. After reading reviews about the location, I felt a bit anxious because some customers had less than satisfactory experiences.
Fortunately, our experience with Adventure Water Sports, where we rented paddleboards, turned out to be quite enjoyable. The owners were amiable, and the staff was both fun and helpful. We had a wonderful time paddleboarding in the area. Thank you for the memorable experience, Adventure Water Sports, and we look forward to visiting again.
13. SD Adventures - Jet Ski Rental & Boat Rental San Diego
Explore Beautiful San Diego Bay

SD Adventures in San Diego is an ideal location for renting jet skis and speed boats, with easy access to San Diego Bay. The rental options include new Yamaha VX Deluxe Wave Runners for up to three people and Bayliner Element boats that accommodate six or nine people. Additionally, they offer pedal boats, paddle boards, and Calypso Kayaks with clear bottoms for underwater viewing.
We thoroughly enjoyed our jet ski experience with SD Adventures. The sights were amazing, and we have no regrets about our decision. While there might be less expensive hourly rental options elsewhere, the exceptional helpfulness and friendliness of staff members like Derek make SD Adventures worth the cost. We highly recommend giving it a try.
14. Mission Bay Stand Up Paddle

15. Redline Fishing Kayaks and Paddleboards Sales - Delivered to Your Door
Direct delivery to your door

San Diego offers numerous attractive destinations for visitors, including Mission Bay, Coronado Island, La Jolla Cove, and several beaches and reservoirs. These sites provide opportunities for various recreational activities, particularly water sports like fishing and paddling.
Redline Rentals and Sales is a top-tier provider of paddle-related equipment and services in the area. They offer an extensive range of products, including high-quality fishing kayaks, recreational kayaks, paddle boards, and electric bicycles. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, Redline Rentals and Sales is committed to delivering fun and enjoyment to its customers.
16. Crystal Clear Kayak Adventures

17. Aqua Adventures Mission Bay Kayaks & Stand Up Paddleboards Rental & Sales
Scenic views of Mission Bay

If you're in search of a kayaking destination in San Diego, Aqua Adventures is an excellent choice. The rental process is straightforward and efficient, allowing for a hassle-free experience. Once you're out on the water, you can enjoy paddling around the picturesque Mission Bay.
At Aqua Adventures, the kayaking equipment is well-maintained and up-to-date, providing an enjoyable and safe experience. As you paddle around, you'll be treated to stunning views of the bay and its surroundings. Overall, a kayaking trip at Aqua Adventures is highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in San Diego.
18. San Diego Jet Ski and Boat Rentals
Beachfront Location, Wide Selection of Vessels

Kayaking in San Diego is a wonderful experience, thanks to the friendly staff and high-quality equipment available at this location. Visitors can look forward to exploring the beautiful bay while enjoying the stunning views.
San Diego offers a great location for kayaking, with excellent service and breathtaking scenery. The staff's friendly attitude and top-notch equipment make for an amazing time on the water, making it an ideal destination for kayakers of all skill levels.
19. Fastlane Sailing and Kayaking Center
Ocean Views, Experienced Guides

Fastlane Sailing and Kayaking Center has received an impressive 4.7-star rating from a total of 85 reviewers, indicating the high quality of their services. The center is known for its exceptional customer service, with staff who are not only friendly but also knowledgeable and helpful. One satisfied customer shared their experience of purchasing a used Pro Angler 14 from a third party and commended Fastlane for their assistance in getting the kayak ready for the water.
Fastlane's expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction are apparent in their work. They offer a wide range of services, including kayak and sailboat repairs, rigging, and maintenance, as well as sailing and kayaking lessons. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just starting out, Fastlane has something to offer. Their team's dedication to helping customers get the most out of their water sports experience has earned them a well-deserved reputation as a trusted and reliable center.
20. San Diego Canoe Kayak Team (SDCKT)

21. California Paddle Board Tours

22. Paddle Board San Diego
