Paddle Golden Gate—A three-day instructional gathering aimed towards intermediate and advanced paddlers in and around San Francisco Bay. Takes place every other year (2016, 2018, etc.) in late January or early February. Formerly known as the Golden Gate Sea Kayak Symposium.
Cow Patty Pageant—An annual race and paddle on the Estero Americano in Sonoma County, CA. Benefits the Sonoma Land Trust. Usually takes place in early February.
Storm Gathering USA—A three-day symposium in Trinidad, CA emphasizing skills development for paddling in challenging conditions, which may include surf, rock gardens, and open crossings. Takes place every other year (2015, 2017, etc.) in early March.
Santa Cruz Paddlefest—The annual top kayak and SUP surfing event on the West Coast. Steamer Lane point break, Santa Cruz, CA. Usually takes place in mid-March.
Baja Kayak Fest—A rough-water instructional gathering held in Ensenada, Mexico for experienced sea kayakers. Usually takes place in April.
Cal 100—A 100-mile, one-day paddling race on the Sacramento River for kayaks, surfskis, standup paddleboards, outriggers, and canoes that begins under the Sundial Bridge in Redding and finishes near Chico. 25-mile and 50-mile courses added in 2016. Benefits Rivers for Change. Takes place in May or June.
ETC Regatta and Paddle-a-thon—Held in conjunction with Sea Trek, this race features a 9.5-mile course from Schoonmaker Beach in Sausalito, around Angel Island, and back, as well as a shorter course. Supports of Environmental Traveling Companions’ (ETC) accessible outdoor adventure programs. Takes place in mid-October.
South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayak Symposium—(SSTIKS) is a family friendly weekend event featuring some of the best instructors and competitors in Greenland-style kayaking. In Twanoh State Park, WA. Usually takes place in June.
