Discover Upper Newport Bay Kayak Tour

This is a mixed public kayaking tour for up to 20 people. Tour time is a max of 2 hours, including intro lesson, paddling the Bay, and putting away equipment.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of Upper Newport Bay and to see skimmers, terns, and egrets flying by you. If your eyes are quick, catch a glimpse of a silver mullet (fish) jumping out of the water or a stingray gliding beneath you. Each tour is unique with startling differences in the birds and other wildlife depending on the season and the state of the tide. In summer, black skimmers and terns that come here to nest predominate. In winter, there is an abundance and diversity of shorebirds, ducks, and grebes that migrate from Canada and Alaska. Most participants think that the winter kayak tours are actually the best!

This area is protected, and it is special to be able to enter into such a sensitive nature area. As you gently paddle along, you will have the opportunity to see wetland wildlife while your naturalist guide stops occasionally to rest and talk about the ecology/natural history of the Bay. Feel free to ask questions at any time during your tour!

Once back on the beach, it is expected that you will help to put your kayak and equipment away. At this point, you are free to enjoy the rest of your day! If you wish to stay on site to picnic on your own, North Star Beach is located next to the NAC and is a public beach for your use. Public restrooms are located around the back of the Newport Aquatic Center (NAC) and will be open during business hours. **Nesting season (March-September) is an especially sensitive time, please use an abundance of caution when recreating outdoors where birds are present.

No experience? No problem! Your volunteer naturalist guide will begin with a quick Intro to Kayaking safety lesson for the group and show you all the skills needed to explore again on your own. It is expected that all participants can swim, and are able to help carry kayaks a short distance to/from the water.

Ages 8+ are welcome. Tandem (2-person) kayaks are used for families and couples. All children under 12 must ride with an adult (18+) in a tandem kayak. At least one parent/responsible adult must be present on the water with any minors (17 and under). Teens/adults can ride in solo kayaks only when group space permits or if there is an odd number in a party. Participants will never be paired up with an unknown member of the public. Dogs are not allowed on the tour.

Personal Floatation Devices (PFD's/life jackets) will be provided and must be worn while on the water. All necessary equipment including kayaks is included.

All county and local health recommendations will be followed, please adhere to recommendations for face coverings and social distancing. DO NOT attend a tour if you are ill. Refunds or rescheduling will be made for any cancelled tour or reservation.

View our Introduction to Kayaking video to get a better idea of what to expect before you paddle out!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Newport Aquatic Center, 1 Whitecliffs Drive, Newport Beach, United States