Marina del Rey: Guided Kayak & Paddleboard Tour – A Scenic, Wildlife-Filled Paddle in Southern California

If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor activity that combines the tranquility of calm waters with a chance to see local wildlife and enjoy stunning scenery, the Marina del Rey Guided Kayak & Paddleboard Tour is a wonderful choice. Offered by Pro SUP Shop, this 75-minute experience takes you through one of Southern California’s most picturesque harbors, where you’ll paddle past sea lions, sea turtles, and even dolphins in their natural habitat. The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, with options for single or tandem kayaks and paddleboards.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is—it’s a gentle paddle that doesn’t require prior expertise, making it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful nature escape. Plus, the views of the Los Angeles mountains amid the water add a dramatic backdrop that elevates the whole experience. A second highlight is the chance to observe wildlife up close; hearing about sea lions lounging on buoys or spotting dolphins leaping nearby adds a memorable touch.

One possible consideration is that the tour requires at least four reservations to run, which might mean planning ahead if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. Also, the activity is weather-dependent, with wind or rain potentially leading to cancellation. Nonetheless, this guided paddle remains a great option for anyone wanting an authentic, nature-filled adventure without straying far from LA’s urban environment. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate scenic views, wildlife encounters, and gentle outdoor activity.

This tour suits outdoor lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience Southern California’s coastal beauty without the crowds or complexity of longer excursions. If you’re after a quick, scenic, and wildlife-rich paddle, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

Calm waters for easy paddling: Perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Wildlife encounters: Spot sea lions, sea turtles, and sometimes dolphins in their natural surroundings.
Scenic views: Enjoy gorgeous vistas of the Los Angeles mountains and marina.
Flexible options: Choose between single or tandem kayaks, or paddleboards for experienced riders.
Small group size: Limited to 4 participants, offering a more personalized experience.
Weather-dependent: Tours may be canceled if conditions are not suitable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Marina del Rey Kayak & Paddleboard Tour

A gentle paddle through California’s luxury harbor doesn’t sound like a typical adventure, but it’s precisely what makes this tour appealing. The calm waters of Marina del Rey serve as an ideal setting, especially for those new to paddling or anyone seeking a peaceful break from urban life. As we set out with our guide, we received a brief safety overview—necessary but straightforward—before slipping into the water, ready to explore.

Wildlife spotting is a major highlight. We loved the way sea lions lounge on buoys and how their playful antics brought big smiles to our faces. One review mentioned, “We saw a sea lion pop up right next to us—it was surreal.” Besides sea lions, the chance to see sea turtles floating peacefully beneath our paddles adds a special touch. Dolphins occasionally make an appearance too, creating moments of awe as they leap out of the water briefly. This is not a tour that promises guaranteed wildlife sightings, but even the possibility adds a sense of adventure.

The views of the Los Angeles mountains provide a stunning visual contrast to the water, with rugged peaks and rolling hills framing your paddle. It’s a reminder of how diverse Southern California’s landscape is—urban sprawl on one side, natural beauty on the other. From the water, the marina’s shimmering surface and the mountain backdrop make for excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or late afternoon, when the light is softer.

The options for different paddling gear—single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and paddleboards—are convenient. For those with some experience, the paddleboards are a fun way to challenge your balance and get a different perspective. For beginners or anyone preferring companionship, tandem kayaks allow sharing the experience with a friend or partner.

The tour duration of about 75 minutes hits the sweet spot—long enough to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. The small group size—limited to four participants—means you get plenty of attention from your guide, who can answer questions and provide local insights.

One point to consider is that the tour requires at least four reservations to happen. If you’re traveling alone or in a small group, you might need to coordinate with others or wait for a larger booking. Also, weather plays a role—if gusts of wind or rain are present, the tour might be canceled. That said, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

Pricing offers good value for the experience. At around 75 minutes, it’s an accessible way to enjoy a scenic and wildlife-rich activity without a hefty price tag. Plus, the small group setting enhances the overall experience, making it feel more personal and less touristy.

Authentic reviews echo these sentiments, with many noting the memorable wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. One participant described the experience as “peaceful yet exciting,” emphasizing how close-up wildlife sightings made their trip unforgettable. Another appreciated the safety instructions, noting they felt comfortable even as beginners.

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What to Expect on the Tour

Your adventure begins on the beach, where the guide provides a quick safety briefing—key for newcomers to feel confident. Afterward, you’ll launch into the calm waters of Marina del Rey, where the water’s gentle movement makes paddling easier and more enjoyable. As you glide along, your guide might point out the local sea lions, often lazily basking or playfully splashing around.

The route typically takes you around the marina’s perimeter, giving you a comprehensive view of the harbor’s floating homes, boats, and scenic mountain backdrop. The mountains are notably picturesque, offering a dramatic contrast to the water and adding depth to your photos.

Throughout the paddle, the guide shares insights about the local ecosystem and marine life, making the experience both relaxing and educational. The wildlife sightings are unpredictable but delightful—seeing a sea turtle below your paddleboard or spotting dolphins in the distance can feel like a small miracle.

The tour ends back at the starting point, with time to soak in the scenery and reflect on your wildlife encounters. For many, the quiet beauty of the harbor and the chance to see animals in their natural environment makes it a highlight of their trip.

Practical Details & Tips

Duration: 75 minutes, including safety instructions.
Group size: Limited to 4 participants for a personalized touch.
Reservations: Can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
Weather sensitivity: Tours may be canceled due to wind or rain.
Participants: Must be 13 years or older; children under 13 are not permitted.
Gear: Choose between single or tandem kayaks or paddleboards (most suitable for experienced riders).
Location: Starts at Marina del Rey, a short drive from Los Angeles proper.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a low-impact, scenic activity that provides ample wildlife viewing and stunning mountain vistas, this tour is well suited for you. It’s especially good for those new to paddling or families seeking a relaxed outdoor outing. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see sea lions and sea turtles up close, while photo enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the harbor’s beauty.

It’s not ideal for anyone looking for a strenuous workout or long adventure, but for a half-hour to hour-and-a-quarter of peaceful paddling amid Southern California’s natural beauty, this experience delivers.

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The Sum Up

The Marina del Rey Guided Kayak & Paddleboard Tour offers a peaceful yet lively way to experience one of California’s most scenic coastal spots. It’s a chance to glide quietly through calm waters, listen to the sounds of seals and sea turtles, and enjoy the rugged beauty of the nearby mountains. For those who value authentic wildlife encounters and stunning views without the hassle of long excursions, this tour balances value and experience beautifully.

Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking serenity, a family eager for safe outdoor fun, or a couple wanting a unique date idea, you’ll find that this paddle provides a memorable glimpse of Southern California’s natural charm. Just remember to book ahead, check the weather, and bring your camera—you’re likely to want to capture these quiet, wildlife-filled moments.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the paddle is easy to manage, and safety instructions are provided beforehand, making it accessible for beginners.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be 13 years or older; children under 13 are not permitted.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for water activity; consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A water bottle is recommended, though gear like life jackets is provided.

Can I choose between a kayak and paddleboard?
Yes, you can select a single or tandem kayak or a paddleboard if you’re experienced.

How long is the tour?
The guided paddle lasts approximately 75 minutes, including safety instructions.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled due to wind or rain. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need prior paddling experience?
No, the tour is suitable for all skill levels, especially since safety instructions are given before launching.

How many people will be in my group?
Tours are limited to 4 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Marina del Rey, a convenient location with easy access from Los Angeles.

In brief, this guided paddle offers an authentic, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that’s perfect for those wanting a peaceful outdoor activity with plenty of visual rewards. It combines simplicity, natural beauty, and a chance to see marine animals in their habitat—making it a memorable slice of California’s coast.