Napa Valley is known for wine — but it’s also one of Northern California’s most underrated paddling destinations. From the winding Napa River to scenic lakes surrounded by wildlife, here are the best places to kayak in Napa.
Kayaking the Napa River
The obvious first choice when you kayak Napa is the Napa River.
The river begins at Kimball Canyon Creek on the southern slope of Mount St. Helena and runs approximately 55 miles before reaching San Pablo Bay. It flows through every Napa Valley community and is truly the heart of the valley.
South of the City of Napa, the river becomes a tidal estuary. Daily tides affect the river as far north as Trancas Street, dramatically changing the ecosystem. Wide tidal marshes transition into wooded corridors lined with California bay and dogwood trees.
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A Little-Known History of the Napa River
Few locals realize that after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, the Napa River bottom was dredged for rock used to help rebuild San Francisco. This had a significant long-term impact on water clarity.
Older residents recall being able to see the sandy bottom near the Third Street Bridge — something you rarely see today. Many people assumed pollution was the primary cause of murky water, but riverbed scraping played a major role.
Wildlife on the Napa River
Beavers have returned after nearly being hunted to extinction and are steadily building dams along tributaries. If you are lucky, you may spot one while paddling.
Other wildlife commonly seen includes great blue herons, egrets, grebes, river otters, and seasonal migratory birds.
Kayaking at Lake Hennessey (Conn Dam)
Lake Hennessey is a quieter paddling option in Napa Valley and serves as a local water reservoir.
Because it supplies drinking water, no bodily contact with the water is allowed. A boating permit is required:
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$4 for the day
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$25 for the year
Wildlife sightings may include bald eagles, grebes, egrets, and great blue herons. Along the shoreline, be aware that rattlesnakes are occasionally present.
Kayaking at Lake Berryessa
Lake Berryessa is the largest lake in Napa County and offers expansive open-water paddling.
You can kayak out to several islands, including Eagle Island where bald eagles have nested. While it is a fun destination — especially if paddling to the islands — heavy powerboat traffic during warmer months can make it less peaceful for kayakers.
The lake does offer fishing, camping, and several resort access points.
Kayak Napa and Enjoy Napa Valley
Whether you choose the historic Napa River, the quiet waters of Lake Hennessey, or the wide-open space of Lake Berryessa, Napa Valley offers a unique paddling experience shaped by wildlife, history, and changing ecosystems.
If you’re ready to explore the Napa River from downtown, you can reserve a guided kayak tour or a flexible self-guided rental from the Main Street Dock.
Justin Perkins
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