Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Buck's Landing
Buck's Landing is a public boat ramp on San Pablo Bay near San Rafael, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.
At a Glance
Water Body
Bay
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Public launch on San Pablo Bay in California. Beginner-friendly bay paddling near San Rafael.
Buck's Landing in California provides access to San Pablo Bay, offering sheltered paddling in a bay environment.
This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. Western paddling spans coastal waters, mountain lakes, and everything in between.
Conditions here tend to be sheltered and tidal, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
At about 5 min from San Rafael, Buck's Landing is a practical choice for paddlers based in the San Rafael area.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm bay waters make Buck's Landing ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
- •Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
- •Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
- •Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Buck's Landing?
- Buck's Landing is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Buck's Landing?
- Buck's Landing supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Buck's Landing?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Buck's Landing?
- The best time to paddle at Buck's Landing is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
- What are the water conditions at Buck's Landing?
- Water conditions at Buck's Landing include sheltered, tidal.
- Is Buck's Landing good for beginners?
- Yes, Buck's Landing is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.0158, -122.5034
Quick Facts
- State
- California
- Region
- West
- Getting There
- ~5 min from San Rafael
38.0158, -122.5034
Best Paddling in California
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on San Pablo Bay
2 other launches on this water body
Nearby Paddling
San Pedro Boat Storage
California · 0.0 mi
Safe Harbor Loch Lomond Marina
California · 3.2 mi

Petaluma River Public Fishing Access (Black Point)
California · 6.8 mi
Boat Ramp Street
California · 9.4 mi

Point San Pablo Yacht Club
California · 9.4 mi
Richmond Yacht Harbor Ltd.
California · 9.4 mi