Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store
Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store is a public boat ramp on Santa Margarita Lake near Santa Margarita, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Limited
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Lake access at Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store near Santa Margarita, California. Good for kayaking and canoeing.
Situated on Santa Margarita Lake in California, Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Western paddling spans coastal waters, mountain lakes, and everything in between.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and fuel and boat rental.
Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store sits about 15 min from Santa Margarita, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
- •Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store?
- Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store?
- Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, fuel, boat rental. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store?
- The best time to paddle at Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
- What are the water conditions at Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store?
- Water conditions at Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store include calm, sheltered.
- Is Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store good for beginners?
- Yes, Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat 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: 35.3275, -120.4906
Quick Facts
- State
- California
- Region
- West
- Getting There
- ~15 min from Santa Margarita
35.3275, -120.4906
Best Paddling in California
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Share a trip report
Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Santa Margarita Lake Marina & Store
Sign InPaddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Santa Margarita Lake
1 other launch on this water body
Nearby Paddling
Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park
California · 0.7 mi
Lopez Lake Marina and Store
California · 9.5 mi
Lopez Lake Regional Park
California · 9.5 mi

Laguna Lake Park
California · 11.8 mi

Port San Luis Harbor Mooring Field
California · 18.5 mi
Morro Bay Public Launch Facility
California · 20.4 mi