Oceans of Whitewater (Part 3) – Mendocino

There is nowhere I know of that embodies the concept of ‘Oceans of Whitewater’ quite like the Mendocino Coast of California. The myriad of rock gardens, caves and arches combined with the ever-present Pacific swell and stunning coastal views makes this a perfect place to explore in a kayak like the Karma RG, Rogue or Journey.

‘Discovered’ by the Tsunami Rangers, pioneers of ocean play, the ‘Mendo’ coast has long been known as an ocean playground.

Jackson Kayak Exploration Team members Jeff Laxier and Cate Hawthorne run Liquid Fusion Kayaking out of Fort Bragg. Jeff and Cate have been taking rock gardening to a whole new level using whitewater kayaks and they were instrumental in making the promo video for the new Karma RG ocean play boat.

Roger Schumann of Eskape Kayak has introduced many paddlers to the sea caves and arches to be found from Shelter Cove south to Point Arena by way of his trips and classes and he recently updated his most excellent Falcon Guide ‘Sea Kayaking Central and Northern California’.

Late Summer and Fall is the best time for weather on the Northern California Coast but there is always somewhere to paddle on the Mendocino Coast because of the many flat water and whitewater rivers that provide shelter or an exciting alternative whatever the weather. Put ‘Mendo’ on your bucket list – you will not be disappointed!