2-Hour Kayak or Paddleboard with Sea Lions in Marina del Rey

Imagine gliding quietly through the calm waters of Marina del Rey, surrounded by shimmering boats and the chance to spot a playful sea lion or a swift dolphin nearby. For just $79 per person, and in about two hours, you can experience this firsthand with a guided kayaking or paddleboarding trip. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this small-group tour—limited to only seven participants—offers a real taste of Los Angeles’ coastal wildlife and stunning marina scenery.

What makes this tour special? First, the personalized experience created by the small group size ensures plenty of attention from your guide and a relaxed pace. Second, the opportunity to see marine creatures like sea lions, dolphins, and various seabirds up close from your watercraft adds an exciting element of wildlife watching that’s often missed in larger, more commercial excursions.

A possible consideration? Since wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, you might find yourself enjoying the scenery and your guide’s narration without necessarily spotting all the animals advertised. Still, from the glowing reviews, it’s clear that many guests do get to see plenty—and the thrill of seeing seals or sea lions in their natural habitat is well worth it.

This tour is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxed, intimate outdoor activity that combines gentle adventure with wildlife discovery. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, if you enjoy being on the water and spotting local marine life, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention.
• Wildlife sightings include sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds, though not guaranteed.
• Flexible equipment options—kayaks and paddleboards—are available based on your preference and skill level.
• Educational guides provide insights into the local marine environment.
• Perfect for beginners and those who seek a laid-back outdoor activity with wildlife encounters.
• Great value for a scenic two-hour tour full of potential animal sightings and stunning views.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Marina del Rey Kayak and Paddleboard Tour

Starting Point: Mellow Sandy Mother’s Beach

Your adventure begins on the soft sands of Mother’s Beach, a relaxed and welcoming spot that sets the tone for the entire experience. The guide will greet you here, go over safety tips, and introduce you to the kayaking or paddleboarding techniques. This initial briefing is especially helpful if you’re new to paddling—guides like Tyler and Walker are praised for their friendly, informative approach that makes newbies feel comfortable. As one reviewer noted, “Tyler was a wonderful guide!! We enjoyed our time on the kayaks.”

The Equipment and Options

You’ll have a choice between single kayaks, double kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). The fleet includes 2 double kayaks, 2 single kayaks, and 4 SUPs, available on a first-come, first-served basis. During your booking, you should specify your preference, which the guides aim to accommodate. Many reviews highlight the ease of the equipment—people of varied ages and fitness levels found it beginner-friendly, with one guest mentioning, “even my 65-year-old mom enjoyed it!”

Paddling Through the Marina: What to Expect

Once on the water, your guide will lead you into the main channel of Marina del Rey, a stretch bustling with yachts, sailboats, and pleasure craft. This area offers a perfect vantage point to observe the maritime activity and the impressive vessels lining the docks. As you paddle along, your guide will share insights about the environment and marine life, adding context to the views.

Wildlife Encounters: The Main Attraction

The highlight—certainly for many—is the chance to see sea lions lounging on docks and in the water, along with dolphins and a variety of seabirds. One reviewer described it as “an amazing experience” to see sea lions “up close and diving under the kayaks.” While nature remains unpredictable, the majority of guests report consistent sightings. For example, “we saw about 7 sea lions,” and “they came very close to us to check us out,” illustrating how close-up encounters are quite common.

The Experience in Action

Guests repeatedly mention their guides’ helpfulness and knowledge. For instance, “Walker was a great guide and brought us to see seals and yachts,” or “Josh was very friendly and helpful,” which underscores the importance of having a skilled guide to maximize wildlife viewing and safety. The guides also share stories and facts, enriching the experience beyond just paddling.

Duration and Comfort

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, striking a good balance—long enough to enjoy an immersive experience without feeling rushed or exhausted. The small group size adds to the relaxed atmosphere, and many reviews note how peaceful and unhurried the trip feels. This makes it an ideal activity for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a calm yet engaging outing.

Additional Essentials: What to Bring

While equipment and life jackets are included, you should bring a towel and sunscreen—both not included—and wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. The meeting point is near public transportation and easily accessible, which simplifies logistics.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $79, this tour offers good value considering the personalized attention, the chance to see iconic marine animals, and the scenic beauty of Marina del Rey. Many guests say the experience exceeded expectations, especially with guides going above and beyond to point out wildlife and share local insights. Some reviews mention that their guides, like Nate and Walker, made the trip memorable with their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Why This Tour Works Well

This adventure suits travelers who appreciate nature, small-group intimacy, and relaxed pacing. It’s particularly good for those new to paddling or wildlife watching, as the guides are lauded for making everyone feel safe and well-informed. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic experience that combines outdoor activity with wildlife encounters in a beautiful setting, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts: The Bottom Line

This 2-hour kayaking or paddleboarding tour in Marina del Rey is a winning option for anyone seeking a peaceful yet fascinating glimpse into California’s marine life. Its small-group size ensures you’ll never feel lost in the crowd, and the guides’ friendly, educational approach makes it accessible for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

The potential to see sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds—often in close proximity—is a genuine delight, and many guests leave with stories of seals swimming underneath or sea lions sunning on docks. Even if wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the scenic views and serene environment deliver plenty of enjoyment.

Most travelers will find this tour to be excellent value, especially given the high praise for guides like Tyler and Walker, who are repeatedly commended for their helpfulness and knowledge. Whether you’re looking for a family activity, a romantic outing, or a solo adventure, this trip offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy Marina del Rey’s coastal charm and vibrant marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours, providing enough time to paddle, enjoy wildlife sightings, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What equipment is provided?
Life jackets are included, along with a choice of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. The fleet includes 2 double kayaks, 2 single kayaks, and 4 SUPs, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly. Guides like Tyler and Walker are praised for their helpful instructions, making it suitable for those new to paddling.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife sightings such as sea lions and dolphins are common but not guaranteed—they’re wild animals and can be unpredictable.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at Mother’s Beach, a mellow sandy spot near public transportation, with the activity ending back at the same point.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, as long as participants have moderate physical fitness. Many reviews mention family groups including seniors enjoying the experience.

In essence, this Marina del Rey kayak and paddleboard tour offers a simple, enjoyable way to explore one of California’s most picturesque marinas and get a front-row seat to its lively marine life. With friendly guides and scenic views, it’s an experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and authentic wildlife encounters—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable outdoor activity.