Marina Discovery Paddle: Learn SUP & Explore Wildlife

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Get face-to-face with California sea lions from your own paddleboard — and learn a skill that lasts a lifetime. This unique 90-minute experience combines expert paddleboard instruction with a guided wildlife tour through LA’s largest marina. No experience needed. Led by LA’s most experienced ASI-accredited SUP instructor with 15 years and 1,000+ students guided.

Includes Pictures!!!

What's Included

Wildlife guide and marine ecosystem education
Water safety briefing
Premium SUP board, adjustable carbon fiber paddle, leash, and safety gear
90-minute guided Discovery Paddle experience
Level 1 Paddle Method instruction from a certified professional
Top quality boards, carbon fiber paddles, leash, lifevest or rescue belt
Parking (free public parking available at Lot #11)
Personal flotation device (available on request)
Gratuities (appreciated but not expected)
Photos (available upon request)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Mother’s Beach, 14110 Palawan Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292. Closest parking: Lot #9. Look for the Paddle Method setup on the sand near the water’s edge on the beach or text/call 310-770-7291. It's a small area and we're easy to find

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Start your Discovery Paddle at Mother’s Beach, one of the calmest launch points in Los Angeles. Your instructor, Tim Sanford, will teach you the fundamentals of stand up paddleboarding on the sand before guiding you onto the water. Within minutes, you’ll be standing and paddling with confidence.

From there, explore the marina's hidden waterways and wildlife habitats. Marina del Rey is home to thriving colonies of California sea lions, spotted on nearly every tour. You'll also encounter brown pelicans, great blue herons, cormorants, and occasionally dolphins. Your guide shares insights about the local ecosystem, marine life behavior, and navigation skills as you paddle.

This is not just a wildlife tour — it’s a lesson and an adventure combined. You’ll leave knowing how to paddleboard AND having experienced LA’s coastal wildlife from inches away. Paddle Method has been turning people into paddlers since 2010 and is the only ASI‑accredited SUP school in the Marina del Rey area.

Available 7 days a week, year‑round. The 8:30 AM session offers the calmest water, ideal for first timers and families. The 10:30 AM session suits those wanting a more active paddle with a gentle sea breeze.

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • It's a water based activity so comfort swimming is preferred
Supplied by Paddle Method
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Tags

Stand Up Paddleboarding
On the Water
Small Group
Involves Animals
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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