Sonoma County offers one of the most diverse natural destinations in California for adventurers. From hiking past towering redwoods to exploring the Pacific Ocean coastline and paddling meandering rivers, outdoor adventure in Sonoma County is limitless! The Russian River offers fantastic paddling throughout the North Bay, so you can access fun on the water no matter where you’re staying. Embark on a Russian River kayaking adventure during your next getaway and discover the natural side of wine country!
Russian River Kayaking Launch Points
Because the Russian River is approximately 100 miles long, several launching points exist throughout Sonoma County. The lower section of the river is the most accessible option for those who want to explore the water independently.
Enjoy the river’s calm waters as you paddle past Coast Redwoods and keep an eye out for local wildlife. Please refer to Sonoma County’s Safety Tips for Water Activities before embarking on your paddling trip. Try these popular routes along the Russian River.
Del Rio Woods to Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach
Start out with beach access from Del Rio Woods in Healdsburg. From the Fitch Mountain Road launching point, you’ll kayak about two miles to Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach, situated along Old Redwood Highway.
Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach to Forestville River Access
For a longer kayaking experience, head south to Forestville River Access. This 4-6 hour kayak trip will drop you off near River Road with trail access to a scenic beachfront. Park your kayaks and take in the scenery at “Mom’s Beach” before heading out.
Steelhead Beach to Sunset Beach River Park
For a scenic two-hour kayaking trip through Forestville, start at Steelhead Beach Regional Park. From there, paddle your way to Sunset Beach River Park. Once you arrive, you’ll find beach-goers swimming, floating, and tubing along the Russian River. Then, unpack your lunch and enjoy the picnic area while bird watching.
Steelhead Beach to Guerneville River Park
Spend half the day kayaking the Russian River when you paddle west to Guerneville River Park. Take a Regional Parks river shuttle to Steelhead Regional Beach before launching from the park’s year-round boat launch area. Plan ahead by reserving a group picnic site at Guerneville River Park and relaxing after a nearly-eight-mile paddle trip.
Guerneville River Park to Monte Rio Beach
If you’re in the mood for a more leisurely kayaking experience, take the 1.5-hour paddle from Guerneville River Park to Monte Rio Beach. You’ll arrive on the Russian River’s largest public beach, which offers beach concessions and family-friendly activities. Later, unroll your beach towel and soak up the sun on Monte Rio Beach’s sandy shore.
Russian River Self-Guided Kayaking
If you do not have access to your own kayak, we recommend starting your Russian River kayaking adventure with Burke’s Canoe Trips. Burke’s offers a 10-mile self-guided paddling trip through the heart of the redwoods that takes around three to four hours with kayak gear available on-site. And if you are looking for Russian River kayak rentals near Healdsburg instead, then embark on your self–guided paddle with Russian River Adventures.
Sonoma County Paddling Tours
Several Sonoma County kayaking tours are available for those who prefer to kayak with an expert guide. Getaway Adventures offers a tour where a guide will take you to swimming holes and gorgeous beaches as they teach you about local flora and fauna.
River’s Edge Kayak & Canoe Trips has The Bohemian tour, where you will paddle the river for five miles before stopping at the historic Monte Rio Theater. Watch for wildlife such as herons, turtles, osprey, deer, and otters when kayaking in Sonoma County.
Sonoma County Luxury Vacation Rentals
Discover the natural beauty of Sonoma County with a relaxing Russian River kayaking trip. After your day on the water, return to your wine country vacation rental with Woodfield Properties. Whether you want to stay in a contemporary villa or a historic cottage, we have a property for every vacation style. Check out our seasonal specials and book your Sonoma wine country vacation today! View our short-term vacation rentals and luxury home collection for your trip to Sonoma County.