Brookings Ocean Wildlife Viewing Kayak Tour

This ocean paddle is moderately challenging and best suited for those with prior kayaking experience. While it’s not overly strenuous, paddling in the open ocean requires basic comfort and control in a kayak. If you’ve kayaked before—especially on lakes, rivers, or calm bays—you’ll likely find this tour enjoyable and manageable.

Yes, some prior kayaking experience is recommended for this ocean tour. The conditions are generally mild thanks to the protection of Chetco Point, but ocean paddling still involves navigating waves, currents, and changing conditions. First-time kayakers are better suited for our calm-water estuary tours on the Chetco River - check out the beginner-friendly Chetco River adventure here!

Yes, everyone will be required to wear wetsuits and booties. These are provided to you!

Yes, you’ll likely get splashed during the paddle. Wetsuits are provided and required for this tour to keep you warm and comfortable.

While it's not common for people to tip over, but this is the ocean and it is more dynamic than a flatwater paddle. Occasionally people tip over, but that is why we wear wetsuits just in case.

We typically see various types of seabirds like Brown Pelicans, Black Oyster Catchers, and Pigeon Guillemot. We also commonly see lots of Harbor Seals and sometimes Grey Whales!

It's best to leave the camera behind unless it is rated for use in and around water. Our guides will be sure to snap some photos of you while you’re out on your tour as well.

Tipping is always appreciated and a great way to recognize your guide’s hard work. Guiding is part of the service industry, and if your guide provides a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience, a tip is a meaningful way to say thank you.

The Brookings Chetco River Wildlife Viewing Tour stays entirely in calm, protected freshwater—perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a relaxing paddle with great opportunities to see birds, harbor seals, and peaceful sloughs.

The Brookings Ocean Wildlife Viewing Kayak Tour, on the other hand, ventures out through the river mouth into the open Pacific Ocean. You’ll explore rocky coastal features, kelp forests, and have a chance to see marine life like Gray whales, pelicans, and sea lions. It’s a bit more adventurous and better suited for those with some prior kayaking experience.

If you're new to kayaking, start with the river. If you’re comfortable on the water and want to explore Oregon’s wild coastline, the ocean tour is an incredible experience.