Russian River Estuary
Marine Protected Area
Ocean and River Nursery
The Most Wildlife Rich Habitat
on the Russian River
Seal, Otter, Birds, Whale
Sharing the best ways
to view since 1987
Protected Wildlife Habitat
River Mouth Open: Stay 300 ft back from Deadly River Mouth Currents. Currents upstream of "estuary tidal influence" remain hazardous into May.
Returning to shore safely may not be possible.
"Stay back at least 150 feet" from resting or feeding birds and wildlife by land and water.
Feeding and Disturbing Wildlife Prohibited
Estuary Forecast: 04/18/24: Soft Opening
Free dry bag use and thin outerwear if needed.
Guided Tours or Rentals with Lessons.
Thur: Partly Sunny, Warm, Nice: Start 10AM-2PM
Fri: School Research 10AM-2PM. Rentals Starts: 9AM and 2PM only
Sat: Sunny, PM Wind: Families Start 8:30-9:30AM: Athletic to 11.
Sun-Mon: Partly Sunny, Warm, Nice: Start 10AM-2PM
Tue-Wed: Closed until fully staffed : Warm Nice
Next Thur-Sun: Early Spring Winds: Start 8:30-11AM
Popular weekends and school breaks.
Reservations Required: No act of nature cancellation fees.
Spring: A mix: Nice as Rain and Cold reduce. Tule fog starts inland. Coastal AMs start clearer and warmer than inland. Some windy PMs. Some high wind days. Estuary currents begin to return to tidal calm shortly after each light rain.
We re-open for temps above 55, during dry weather, and without noticeable currents in the main estuary.
(See river levels below 9' at Guerneville)
Ocean Tides: Goat Rock Beach
See our safety page for apps to track local conditions.
We use 4 apps. No single Forecast can correctly cover all aspects. Forecasts change. Therefore, nobody can be held responsible for full forecast accuracy.
Family Friendly Rentals
in our
Jenner Kayaks
Russian River Estuary
River and Ocean
Wildlife Nursery
Sharing the Best Ways to Explore
The Marine Protected Area
Within the Tidal Estuary
Activities throughout the year...
Hours and days can change per weather
See our Rates and Weather Update
Listed Below
for our "Marine Protected Area"
Popular weekends and school breaks.
Reservations Required: No act of nature cancellation fees.
Wildlife Interpretive Safety Review:
Where and How to View / Mini Kayak Lesson
Free Outfitting: Including use of dry bag and water resistant Outerwear
All participants must have swimming skills.
"Your Tourism Activities Fund
Education, Research and Paid Internships"
Thank you for your support!
Spring: River and Coast Conditions
A Mix: Coast mornings are generally mild, warmer and clearer than inland.
Fall through Spring "Inland Tule Fog" affects coastlines much less. Rain and cold begin to reduce. River currents begin to slow. Incoming tides calm our estuary currents. Periods of rain or "Extreme Spring Winds" happen.
Tidal Estuary Waters slow first after rain storms allowing us to reopen first.
Currents farther upstream (Above the Duncan's Mills bridge) may remain swift into May. Avoid entering deadly currents.
We are Different: Most outfitters don't have "water rescue certified staff". We use our training to help teach you the best ways to view local wildlife and how to avoid needing a rescue, prior to your launch. We want you to have a great time.
If we are not open, then it is likely not safe to be on the estuary.
See our forecasts.
Train to Hire: Part-time, Certify for Lifeguard / Kayak Safety / Guide:
Best times to train and certify for Summer work are Fall through Spring.
Great Pay for Great Attitude and Reliable Team Work
Life Opens Up: Breathe Freely On The Water
Heavily Visited Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Area.
Staff Shortages and Staff over the age of 60. Staff may use Masks During Viral Surges.
We want to stay open and to keep having fun with you.
See periodic weather and water limitations that can cause closures.
Wildlife Viewing and Safety
Russian River Estuary Marine Protected Area
"Know Before You Go"
Wildlife Nursery for...
The Most Biologically Dense and Diverse
Ocean Forest on our Planet.
State, Federal and United Nations
Protected Reserve Status.
(See "Safety Limitations Below". Compliance Mandatory )
All Activities Remain At Your Own Risk
- Applies to all visitors including Ocean Beach and Island Hikes and Paddle or Motorized Watercraft of Any Type
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“No Go Zone” Rescue & Ticketing Fees: Pay Attention To Safety Reviews: "Protected Harbor Seal and Sea Bird Resting Area". Do not enter "or approach" roped off areas.
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Stay back 50 yards, (150 feet). State or Federal fines for disturbing resting seals and sea birds can be up to $10,000. None of us wants you to be charged extra fees. Private paddlers have also been gravely inured by entering river mouth or ocean currents at this location. Deadly results, or being banned from renting in the park, can happen if you enter this area. Join us in modeling respectful and ecologically sustainable behavior.
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No Dogs: On beaches with direct wildlife access.
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Leave No Trace: Benefit rather than harm the areas we visit. This area is a protected wildlife nursery. No littering including toxic items like cigarette butts! Leave only foot prints and take only photos and memories.
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Boating under the influence (BUI) = fines. Being under the influence of mind altering substance is not allowed. Participants showing up under the influence will be cancelled. Becoming under the influence on the water may be subject to ticketing and being banned from renting in the park. Kayaking is great for working up an appetite, or thirst, for enjoying local cuisines, wine tasting or micro-brews "after your activity".
A State Park "Business Access by Permit Only" Location.
Additional insurance and operational fees.
All operational and lifeguard fees included in one low price.
Client Monitoring For “State Marine Recreation Management Area”
With 'Federal Wildlife Protection"
"We value your safety and enjoyment, as well as
the integrity of our education and research programs".
Please Respect the Recommendations of our Staff,
Local Regulations, our Access Partners, and Our Other Participants..
Failure to do so can result in injury, death, fines, or loss of participation.
Be Nice and Have Fun!
All Boating Is Within The Protected River and Estuary Waters.
Excess Cleaning: + $20: Return as received: A little wet and sandy is fine.
No: Excess mud, Trash, or "Potentially infectious waste": Masks, tissues, etc.
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Cost Of Damages or Replacement Fees: To avoid damages...
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Pull by handles only, not by stowage cords.
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Don't melt our kayaks with lighters or cigarette butts.
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Avoid breaking paddles by using them as shovels or to shove off.
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Step on foot areas only, not on hulls or seats.
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Don't lose and return all kayak parts and gear.
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Cancellation Fees: No Shows: Full Price.
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To avoid last minute cancellation fees: Call us in time to allow others on a waiting list, to be contacted, to use your seats.
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Rentals: Call at least 24 hours in advance.
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Guided Tours and Large Groups: At least 72 hours in advance.
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Or provide 'proof of illness' or emergency: We won't immediately charge. Instead we allow time for clients to provide a copy of a doctors note or other emergency.
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No "Act of Nature" Cancel fees: High wind, rain, or public health closures. We call you.
Many of our wildlife photos are contributed by Bob Noble.
See Bob's Eyes...
Suki Waters captures most of the wildlife and scenic video.
See contributions also from
George Scott Zastrow Photography
We welcome contributions from our clients and friends.
Resuming Morning
Sunset
Full Moon
and
Night Bioluminescent
Tours
Friday through Monday
and Special Events
Hiring:
CPR, First Aid, Water Rescue
Renew your certifications
to be part of a fun community education and recreational safety team.
Fees Covered with Seasonal or Annual Employment Agreement.
Competitive Pay
We Reward Your Experience!
Main Rules : Pay Attention, Be Nice and Have Fun!
Wildlife Adventure
Kayak Rentals
Sharing the best ways to view wildlife since 1987
Your activity helps fund education, research and recreational safety.=
No cancellation fees for acts of nature closures.
We call you in advance.
Estuary Forecast Update 04/18/24: Soft Re-Opening
Conditions are friendlier with incoming tides
Start at least 3 hours prior to afternoon Spring Wind picking up.
Forecasts can and do change: Check back for updates.
Earth Day Guided Community Education Tours:
Sat: 9AM-12PM and Sun-Mon: 10AM-1PM
Thur: Partly Sunny, Warm, Calm, Nice: Start 10AM-2PM
Fri: AM Fog: School Research 10AM-2PM: Rental Starts 9AM and 2PM only
Sat: Sunny, Avoid PM Spring Winds: Families Start 8:30-10AM: Athletic to 11.
Earth Day Sun-Mon: Partly Sunny, Warm, Calm, Nice: Start 10AM-2PM
Tue-Wed: Closed until fully staffed : Warm, Nice
Next Thur-Sun: Avoid Spring Winds: Families Start 8:30-10AM: Athletic to 11.
Reservations Required
Walk Up reservations may experience wait times
Reserve Early: We personally prep each kayak.
Jenner: Very Limited Internet and Cell Service
Rural Land Line: No Texts: Leave a voice message anytime.
Hours and days can change per weather forecasts.
Please see our forecast in the "water box".
Rentals may be closed on days with large Scout or School Guided Tours.
Call: 9 AM - 5 PM (Thursday - Monday)
707-865-2249
You may need to leave a message during peak hours.
Winter into Spring: Rental Start Times
Days and Hours can be affected by weather: See our forecast in the "water box".
Or in our Update at the top of this page.
Thursday and Monday: 10 AM - 2 PM
Friday through Sunday: 9 AM - 4 PM
We might be Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays until fully staffed for Summer
No Cancellation Fees for Acts of Nature: We call you in advance
Tues & Wed: Open by 2-3 day advance reservation, if we have available staff.
Don't Show Up If You Feel Sick, Have A Cough, Runny Nose, Or Fever.
Any of our staff becoming ill would result in cancelling "All Activities for Everyone"
To Avoid Cancellation Fees: Please Call Immediately.
Tourism Rates: No Shuttle Required
Multiple Hour and Midweek Discounts Shown in Prices
Add 30 minutes prior to your "water time" for all rentals:
This is your reserved check-in and safety review time.
All rentals Include: Kayak, Paddle, Life Vest, Drybag and Safety Review Lesson.
Thin Water Resistant Outerwear available during cooler months.
Liability Waivers Required
Children Under 12: Half Price
Dogs: (Must be wildlife friendly) + $10
(Dogs are not allowed on Goat Rock or Driftwood Beaches per vital wildlife nursery habitat and the estuary island, seasonally, per bird nesting.)
Jenner By the Sea: Estuary Loop / Park & Paddle!
No Shuttle Required: 2-6 hours of paddling with wildlife, exploring the island and walking coastal beaches. Wildlife include seals and their pups along with a wealth of bird species including raptors. Sea birds are seen daily especially in their protected resting area. River Otter, are often present with occasional sightings of Fox, Bobcat, Mink and Muskrat. Seasonal trends and fish runs also bring Sea Lions, Whales, dolphins, pelagic birds and both Brown and American White Pelicans.
Adult Rates: Ask about discounts for families with children, seniors,
schools, youth groups, military, emergency service, and hospital staff.
Total Time: 2.5 Hrs
Water Time: 2 Hrs
Midweek:
Single: $50
Double: $100 (2 Adults. Ask for child discount.)
Weekends and Holidays:*
Single: $55
Double: $110 (2 Adults. Ask for child discount.)
Total Time: 4.5 Hrs
Water Time: 4 Hrs
Midweek:
Single: $70
Double: $140
Weekends and Holidays:*
Single: $75
Double: $150
Total Time: Full Day: "Not recommended Fall through Spring"
(Not recommended without a shuttle. Shuttles must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance. We are not shuttling when short staffed.)
Water Time: 5-8 Hrs
Midweek:
Single: $90
Double: $180
Weekends and Holidays*
Single: $95
Double: $190
Useful Items To Bring:
sunscreen
sunglasses
wide brimmed hat or cap
layering and water friendly shoes
small waterproof day pack or use our drybags
water & snacks
binoculars
waterproof camera
GPS (Handy for Geocaching)
Shuttled Routes: Group Shuttle Discount: 4+: Ask!
Not Available: Still Short Staffed Since March of 2020
We will update prices when we can resume shuttles.
Note: 90% of our activities are not shuttled.
48 hour advanced shuttle reservation required.
Willow Creek: Route Reversible: 2-4 Miles:
Shuttle Times: 9 AM / 11 AM / 1PM
Just Upstream Of Jenner. Gentle paced exploratory route includes the island loop with good swimming near the Willow Creek Campground beach. Major Birding And Wildlife Area.
4.5 Hrs Full Day
On the water: 4 Return by last return time.
Single:
Double: Ask for Shuttle Group Discount For Larger Groups In Doubles
Duncan Mills or Monte Rio: Route Reversible June through October: 7-10 Miles
Shuttle Times: 9 AM Only
For Duncan Mills Campers: Paddle through the heart of our main wildlife corridor into Sonoma Coast State Park. Low impact aerobic 4 hour route " with not much time to explore estuary wildlife" or full day adventure. Monte Rio is a full day trip.
Duncan Mills: 5 Hrs to Full Day: Monte Rio: Full Day Only
On the water: 4 Return by last return time for that day. (Ask when reserving)
Single:
Double: Ask for Shuttle Group Discount For Larger Groups In Doubles
Guerneville to Monte Rio or Duncan Mills: 3-8 Miles
Route does not require lifeguard safety monitoring for the Marine Protected Area.
May require an extra Shuttle Vehicle and extra Guerneville Staff, which may not be available.
Or call Kings Sport in Guerneville. They cover this Summer route.
October through April: Shuttle Times: 9 AM / 11 AM
Includes access fees: Possible afternoon upstream winds. Summer Dams, Occasional River Currents: Route Not Reversible. Reserve for GV Staff: Warmer and less occasional fog in early Summer. Restrooms and good beach food available at Monte Rio beach during Summer months.
Duncan Mills: 4.5 Hrs or Full Day: Monte Rio: Full Day Only
On the water: 4 Return by last return time.
Single:
Double: Ask for Shuttle Group Discount For Large Groups In Doubles
Multi Day Rentals: Discontinued due to Short Staffing.
Finishing In Jenner "Marine Protected Area": (Summer: Midweek Only)
Included: Map of Jenner: With wildlife and safety restrictions.
All river accommodations are "for fee" camping or units. All else is private property.
Guerneville to Jenner: Camp overnight at Duncans Mills: Casini Ranch Family Campground or Duncans Mills Camping Club : Requires advanced planning and reservations with your campground.
Start: Forestville or Healdsburg: 2 - 4 Day Custom Trips
Requires advanced planning and reservations with your accommodation providers.
Accommodations:
Forestville: Camping
Guerneville: Camping or accommodations with river and hot tub access.
Duncans Mills: Camping
Jenner: State Park camping at Willow Creek or accommodations with hot tub or sauna access.
Multi Day Guided Instructional Tours: More details on our tour page. Discontinued due to Short Staffing.
Included:
Kayak outfitting and instruction.
Camping: With Breakfast and Dinner Camp Meals And Packed Lunches.
Or
A Combination of Camping And Vacation Rentals: With Packed Lunches.
Breakfast And Dinner:
Can Be A Combination Of Camp Food And Meals At Vacation Rentals Or
Dining At Local Establishments (Within Walking Or Kayaking Distance Or By Group Van Shuttle).