Guide to Stand Up Paddleboarding and Kayaking in San Diego
- San Diego Beach Review
- Jul 23
- 4 min read
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San Diego’s sunny weather, calm bays, and stunning coastline make it one of the best places in California for stand up paddleboarding and kayaking. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking for a peaceful sunset paddle, the city offers plenty of spots for every skill level. Here’s everything you need to know about paddleboarding and kayaking in San Diego, plus insider tips, rentals, and where to go.
Why Try Paddleboarding and Kayaking in San Diego?
With mild year-round temperatures and over 70 miles of coastline, San Diego is ideal for watersports. You’ll find glassy bays perfect for beginners, ocean coves filled with sea life, and dramatic cliffs as your backdrop. Both sports are easy to learn and a fantastic way to soak in the sun while getting a low-impact workout.
If you don’t have your own gear, don’t worry — there are plenty of rental shops near every major spot to go!
Best Places to Paddleboard and Kayak in San Diego
Mission Bay
Best for: Beginners and families
Why locals love it: Flat, calm water and tons of rental options
Mission Bay is San Diego’s most popular spot for paddling, thanks to its calm waters and huge expanse. Santa Clara Point and Bahia Point are two favorite launch sites. There are plenty of rental shops nearby where you can grab a board or kayak for about $25–30 an hour.
See our Mission Bay Guide for more on exploring all that Mission Bay has to offer.
La Jolla Shores
Best for: Ocean kayaking and snorkeling
Why locals love it: Sea caves, leopard sharks, and crystal-clear water
For a more adventurous paddle, head to La Jolla Shores. The protected marine reserve here is home to sea lions, bright orange garibaldi fish, and even harmless leopard sharks in summer. Guided kayak tours are a great way to explore the caves safely — book one through GetYourGuide kayak tours or check out rentals right on Avenida de la Playa.
Here are some of our favorite Kayak and Snorkel Tours in La Jolla
Coronado Tidelands Park
Best for: Scenic skyline views
Why locals love it: Quiet waters and views of downtown San Diego
If you want a peaceful paddle with Instagram-worthy views, Coronado is your spot. Launch from Tidelands Park or Ferry Landing Marketplace and enjoy calm bay waters with the San Diego skyline as your backdrop. Parking is easy and crowds are lighter than at Mission Bay.
See here for more Things to Do on Coronado and for other Coronado Tours & Excursions.
Where to Rent Paddleboards & Kayaks
You can find rental shops at every beach listed above, with hourly rates starting around $25–30. Some top-rated rental options:
Aqua Adventures (Mission Bay) — paddleboards and kayaks
La Jolla Kayak (La Jolla Shores) — guided tours and rentals
SUP Coronado (Coronado) — paddleboards with delivery options
For convenience, you can also buy an inflatable paddleboard online — check out this best-selling inflatable SUP on Amazon. They pack down small, are surprisingly stable, and pay for themselves in just a few uses.
Local Tips for Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Go early in the morning for the calmest water and fewer crowds.
Wear a life jacket to stay safe
Bring sunscreen, water, and a waterproof dry bag for your phone and keys.
In La Jolla, summer is the best time for clear water and seeing marine life.
FAQ: Paddleboarding and Kayaking in San Diego
Do I need experience to paddleboard or kayak in San Diego?
No, both sports are beginner-friendly. Mission Bay and Coronado are especially good for first timers thanks to their calm waters.
Are rentals available at the beaches?
Yes, all major paddle spots have rental shops nearby, with rates starting around $25–30 per hour. Guided tours are also available at La Jolla.
When is the best time of day to go?
Mornings are best for glassy water and fewer people. Sunset paddles are beautiful too, but waters can get a bit choppier.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, some rental shops even have dog-friendly paddleboards. Mission Bay is the most dog-friendly area for water activities.
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Exploring the coast from a paddleboard or kayak are some of the best ways to enjoy the ocean and the bays. Don't wait to try it, as there's so much fun and adventure you'll discover once you do!
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