You're on a Boat!

Now is a nice time of year to get out on the lake, and these three oases let you rent a boat and paddle—or pedal—amid tranquil surroundings and the spontaneous delights of nature. Bonus: they all offer some nice on-shore adventures, too. Whatever floats your boat.

Week: 09.03.2025
Regions: Northern CA

Afternoon on the Island

Paddle to an island in the middle of Loch Lomond lake

Peninsula & South Bay
Water
Picnickers at Clar Innis Island on Loch Lomond in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Two kayaks docked at Clar Innis Island Loch Lomond Santa Cruz Mountains
What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!
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Golden Gate's Blue Heron

Row or pedal-boat around Lake Heron in Golden Gate Park

San Francisco
Dog Friendly, Water, Relaxing
Golden Gate Park’s Blue Heron Lake is home to birds of many feathers, turtles lounging on rocks, visitors from afar, and locals who love this urban oasis in San Francisco. Try the "Boats and Breakfast" rowboat or pedal boat deal.
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Shore Thing

Pedal, Paddle, or Sail Around Shoreline Lake in the South Bay

Peninsula & South Bay
Water, Bike Rides
Paddle, pedal, or row ... however you like to spend time on the water, Shoreline Lake makes it easy. Rent your craft of choice, then linger over lunch, explore nearby trails, or simply soak in the scenery.
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Let's Go to Paso!

Fall Harvest Getaway to Paso Robles

Greater California
Overnight Escapes
Sponsored
Paso Robles is a good idea in all seasons, but one season brings a special bounty: harvest season! Road-trip ready and teeming with fall colors and fun events, Paso Robles is the ultimate destination for unique autumn experiences.
Win One of Three Trips to Paso Robles
A Hiker looking over a mountain range

Your Inbox to the Outdoors

Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.

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    A wise man once said, “Walk it off.” And San Francisco has just the place for a colorful walk via a 2.7-mile loop along Philosopher’s Way Trail in the 318-acre John McLaren Park (S

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  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

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  3. woman hiking Mt Tam east peak
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    Marquee Marin

    There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

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  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

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  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

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  3. The Big Chill

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