What's Happening in Newport Beach, CA…

Upper Newport Bay tours are underway, but there are still many dates available.

Upper Newport Bay is an ecological reserve, and one of the best ways to enjoy it is by kayak. Public kayaking tours can accommodate as many as 20 people. The tours, which are led by naturalists, last a maximum of two hours, which includes an introductory lesson to kayaking, the actual tour, and equipment return.

Kayaks are used for these tours because they are quiet. Paddlers will be able to spot birds such as egrets, terns, and skimmers. Sharp-eyed participants might see a silver mullet jumping from the water, or even a stingray underneath the surface.

Tours differ depending on the tides and the season. Summer finds a predominance of terms and black skimmers, while the winter months bring migratory birds like grebes, ducks, and shorebirds that are flying south from Alaska and Canada.

The tour guide will begin the day with a lesson on kayaking, a safety lesson, and a demonstration of necessary skills. The outing is suitable for those age eight and over. It is mandatory for participants to wear lifejackets, which will be provided, and the guides will follow health protocols in effect at the time of the tour.

The next kayaking tour is September 3, and then weekly through the end of the year. The location is the Newport Aquatic Center in Newport Beach. Organizers of events like this can use flyer printing to create instruction sheets for participants.