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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Things to do in Oakland…/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Kayaking Tours/
    5. Kayak Basics Class in Oakland
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    Kayak Basics Class in Oakland

    Learn basic kayak strokes on calm water at Jack London Square

    4.5 stars• 58 reviews
    From$104/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    3-4 hours

    Includes

    Kayak, paddle, wetsuit

    Highlights

    Build confidence on the water as you learn foundational kayak strokes and safety skills in a flat-water class at Jack London Square. You’ll also get an overview of different kayak types, including touring, recreational, and sit-on-top.

    • Learn forward, reverse, and sweep strokes
    • Practice flat-water skills aimed at recreational kayaking
    • Compare touring, recreational, and sit-on-top kayaks
    • Paddle up to 3+ miles during the course of the day
    • Meet at 409 Water St in Oakland

    What's Included

    • Kayak (hard shell)
    • Paddle
    • Personal flotation device (life vest)
    • Wetsuit
    • Paddling jacket

    Things to know

    Minimum age is 14; minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Good physical condition is required.

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel 7+ days before start for a refund minus a $25 per person processing fee. No refunds for cancellations less than 7 days before start. Full credit or refund if California Canoe & Kayak cancels for any reason; liability limited to class cost only (not travel or accommodations).

    FAQs

    Bring lunch and/or snacks in a dry bag, about 2 liters of drinking water, closed-toe water shoes or sandals (no flip-flops), a bathing suit or swim trunks to wear under the wetsuit, sun protection, a hat (or beanie for winter classes), light-weight gloves for warmth and blister prevention, and sunglasses with a retention strap. Bring dry warm clothes and a towel for after class. Avoid cotton and expect to get wet.

    Yes. No previous kayaking experience is required, but you need to be in good physical condition.

    Plan to paddle up to 3+ miles during the course of the day.

    Meeting details

    409 Water St. Oakland

    Experience provided by California Canoe & Kayak
    Experience provided by California Canoe & Kayak

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Report an issue

    Reference #RAPMMJ

    Person

    $104.94

    0

    1 Person Private Class

    $316.94

    Price/person | Minor must be accompanied by legal a guardian (minimum 14 yrs old))

    0

    2 People Private Class

    $210.94

    Price/person | Minor must be accompanied by legal a guardian (minimum 14 yrs old))

    0

    3 People Private Class

    $104.94

    Price/person | Minor must be accompanied by legal a guardian (minimum 14 yrs old))

    0

    4 People Private Class

    $104.94

    Price/person | Minor must be accompanied by legal a guardian (minimum 14 yrs old))

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.5
    Excellent
    58 reviews•Google Maps

    The staff here clearly knows their stuff and genuinely cares about getting people out on the water safely. Multiple reviewers mention JT and Sou by name, praising their patient instruction style and willingness to go the extra mile, like helping track down hard-to-find gear or rescheduling when water conditions aren't ideal. The equipment gets consistent praise for being well-maintained, and there's a solid selection whether you're renting or shopping for your own kayak or paddleboard. Beyond rentals, they offer lessons that work well for beginners and families with kids, plus they handle repairs and maintenance like drysuit gasket replacements with quick turnaround. The Oakland Estuary location provides calm waters with nice Bay Area views, making it an accessible spot for first-timers to build confidence. One customer had an initial hiccup with an online order that turned out to be a spam folder issue, but the team resolved it quickly once they connected. The genuine passion for paddling sports and commitment to customer care shines through consistently.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Excellent staff, top-notch instruction in a great location.

    Photo of Deborah Crooks

    Deborah Crooks

    February 24, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Excellent staff, top-notch instruction in a great location.

    Photo of Deborah Crooks

    Deborah Crooks

    February 24, 2026

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