La Jolla Kayaking Conditions
Hello! My family has a kayaking tour scheduled this weekend. However, we have started reading and seeing information about elevated surf warnings and bacteria warnings. Do you think the conditions are okay for taking the kayak tour. We are definitely beginners and have two kids ages 6 and 11. I’m wondering if it would be safer to skip the kayaks this weekend and just walk along the shore? Thanks!
When considering a kayaking tour in La Jolla for beginners and young children, it’s important to pay close attention to current ocean conditions and official advisories. Elevated surf warnings indicate that waves may be higher than normal, which can make launching, landing, and paddling more challenging and potentially unsafe for inexperienced kayakers. Additionally, bacteria warnings, often due to water quality issues like high coliform levels, can pose health risks, especially for children.
For your family, here are some points to consider:
- Check official sources: Look at the City of San Diego Beach Conditions and NOAA surf advisories for the most current information on surf and tides.
- Tour operator guidance: Contact your kayaking tour provider. Reputable companies typically cancel or reschedule tours if conditions are unsafe, especially for young children or beginners.
- Age and experience: Children aged 6 and 11 are more vulnerable to waves and currents, and beginners can struggle with stability and navigation in choppy waters.
- Health precautions: If there is a bacteria warning, avoid direct contact with the water, and consider skipping water activities entirely.
Given these considerations, the safest option may be to postpone kayaking for this weekend. Instead, you could:
- Walk along the shore, enjoy tide pools, and watch sea lions or seals.
- Explore La Jolla Shores and nearby beaches, which are safer for children during high surf.
- Plan a kayaking trip on another day with calmer conditions or consider guided eco-tours that remain close to shore in protected areas.
Ultimately, safety comes first. Even if the surf looks manageable, conditions can change quickly, and young children plus beginners are more at risk. Rescheduling ensures an enjoyable and worry-free experience for the whole family.
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