Kayaking in Napa Valley 2025

Thanks to the warm climate, stunning nature and lots of sunshine Napa Valley is a great place for kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. The Napa River, which flows for 55 miles (88-km) through the heart of the valley, from Mt. St. Helena to the San Pablo Bay, is the main water artery and the primary destination for kayakers. Kayaking in Napa Valley is a great experience almost year-round, with the exception of winter months, when the water and air temperatures get chilly.

Napa River boasts beautiful views. Once you paddle out of Downtown Napa, you get to the most significant tidal estuary on the West Coast with abundance of birds, otters, beavers, turtles, and unspoiled nature all around you. It's even possible to spot a bald eagle during your kayaking trip. In addition to wetlands, you'll see mountains, sandy beaches, and lush forests, which look especially scenic in the fall. There are a couple of kayak rental places in Napa, where it's possible to rent equipment for several hours or even several days. They also provide guided tours along the Napa River.

Other popular kayaking destinations in Napa Valley include Lake Hennessey and Lake Berryessa. Lake Hennessey is known for its bountiful wildlife, where you can spot birds like herons, grebes, and egrets. The largest lake in Napa County, Lake Berryessa boasts several small islands, which are perfect for a kayaking adventure. Eagle Island has been famous for bald eagles' nesting sites.