Bay Point Regional Shoreline - New Kayak Launch!

Paddlers now have access to another free launch spot! East Bay Parks have recently reopened Bay Point Regional Shoreline after an extensive restoration project. The restoration included habitat restoration, restroom upgrades, improvements to accessibility and trails, interpretive panels and overlooks and the addition of a kayak launch. Overall, the park district has done a wonderful job improving this park and I encourage you to check it out for yourself. Not only for paddling but as a lovely area for an easy hike.

The launch itself is about 1,000 feet from the parking lot so make sure to bring some wheels. The path to launch is not paved but it is a compacted surface which made it easy to pull kayaks to launch. For kayaks longer than 12 feet, you may need to go around a short fence as there is a 90 degree turn before you enter the gangway. There are flushable restrooms and a nice picnic area adjacent to parking lot.

This area gives you access to Honker and Suisun Bays. Fall and winter would be the best times to paddle this area due to less wind but always check tides and wind forecast. The current can be very strong in this area and tides are critical in planning a trip here. Spring and Summer are notorious for westerly winds and this area can be hazardous for novice paddlers. There is some protection from wind near the launch area but you need at least a one foot tide to paddle the protected area. I returned to the launch at a .92 ft tide and there was maybe 3 inches of depth at launch. 

Also beware of debris lurking under the water. There are lots of wrecks with sharp metal protruding that could do some serious damage. The slough you launch in is approximately one half mile to the entrance of Honker Bay. There are many possibilities to land along the shoreline if you needed to get out of your kayak.

There are many potential destinations from this launch if planned properly. To the east you can go to the Pittsburg Marina and take a short walk to the downtown area where there are many local restaurants to choose from. You can head northeast towards Chipps Island and Spoonbill Creek which are lovely areas to explore. Heading west you can paddle by the Concord Naval Weapons Station but stay far away or you will get chased and yelled at by security. It's approximately 10 miles west to the Martinez Marina if you're interested in a longer trip. Bay Point would make a nice lunch spot if paddling from Martinez with the tides in your favor.

Keep an eye on Delta Kayak Adventures calendar. We will be offering guided trips from this location during the winter season or if you prefer a private guided tour, contact us and we'll be happy to plan a trip for your group.