Head to Redondo Beach!

Ah! The beach. Getting out on or in the water… A part of Los Angeles, a day at the beach & in the water…

by Deborah Shadovitz & Lisa Landis On any day when you’ve had enough of the Los Angeles heat, of endless pavement, cars, and homes, take a moment to remember that we in Los Angeles actually have an ocean and accessible beaches waiting to be enjoyed. Then give yourself a break and go enjoy the ocean air, the infinite view — and perhaps the different feeling of being in or on the water. One of the nicest, easiest places to do this is Redondo Beach. Go for a day, a few days, or just a few hours. Redondo Beach has clean water and a beach that’s expansive and clean. King Harbor provides a safe area for fishing and pleasure boats. The Municipal Pier is nice to walk along or fish from. There’s another Pier as well. Several excellent eateries are right in the area and there’s a nice strolling/shopping area as well. If you visit Redondo Beach in summer, you have the option of several on-the-water activities. In winter months there’s whale watching. And there is always bicycling and walking along with the great air and views. [column-group][column] When my cousin Lisa came to Los Angeles to visit, we headed straight out of my Los Angeles postal code and to the water-enhanced air of Redondo Beach. Although I live just about an hour away, we decided to stay overnight in Redondo, making it a true vacation. We stayed at the Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina Hotel, just a parking lot away from the beach and its activities. It’s a beautiful 339-room business class hotel that’s welcoming from the moment you walk into the marble lobby and notice the huge high salt water fish tank amid the varied, inviting seating areas. There on Sunday and Monday night, we were lucky enough to get an ocean-facing room, complete with our own balcony. (Every room has a private balcony.) We certainly loved starting and ending each day taking in view of the Pacific, King Harbor and the Redondo Beach Marina. Each of the rooms on the side of the Crowne Plaza also feature an ocean view as the windows are creatively set on an angle. There was so much to do though, that as nice as the room and hotel was, we headed out for the day. We did have plenty of time to enjoy the hotel, and especially its fine restaurant, Splash, later on. (More about the hotel.)

Bicycle The Strand & Riviera Village

One nice way to get to know Redondo Beach is to bicycle along the beach on The Strand and though some the town. We borrowed (rented) bikes from our hotel and spent a few hours on a nice, slow ride. We mention this first only because the sun tends to come out in the afternoon, so it’s best to bike in the morning.
  • If you’re a guest at the Crowne Plaza you can rent from the hotel through the Concierge (Bellhop).
  • Alternately, there’s a bike rental stand on North Harbor Drive directly across from the Crowne Plaza.
We turned left out of the hotel doors and cycled down North Harbor Dive a bit, then onto the Redondo Beach Municipal Pier. While on the Pier, per the rules, we walked our bikes as explored, stopping to watch people fishing (no permit needed) or just having fun, to enjoy the views, to talk. RB-Muni-Pier-from-bike_(0055) RB-Muni-PIer-logo_(0037) RB-MuniPier-fishing-MaisonRiz-NorthernBeach_(1455) Leaving the Pier we followed the bike path, bicycling further south on the paved beach path that is part of The Strand. RB-coastline-from-south-beach_(0069) We rode about two miles along the ocean, pretty much to the end of The Strand (around Torrance Beach) where the view north looked like this. Then we turned inland around Via Riviera and road a couple of blocks to cruise through Redondo Beach’s Riviera Village. RB-Riviera Village_(1489)Riviera Village is a bit of an upscale, old-worldish shopping main street said to have over 300 shops, restaurants and services. One shop we particularly liked was Harmony Works, full of lovely works of art, gifts and jewelry.  [clearboth] RB-bike-by-Yacht-club_(1147)Continuing north, we passed our hotel, the Crowne Plaza and continued on to explore the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club and Rocky Point. The boats, the views, and the water were, of course, beautiful and magical.
By the time we’d had enough riding we were ready for lunch and some time on the water. If our goal hadn’t been to see Redondo Beach, we could have bicycled north instead, as The Strand runs all the way to Pacific Palisades, north of Santa Monica. You can read about The Strand on wikipedia.  

Pedal Boat Rental

Along the wooden pier that’s off the open parking lot, you’ll find a yellow booth for the SSV Looking Glass, Pedal boats and Kayaks. All are options for fun on the water (and are only open in summer months). RB-Boat-Rental_(0150) homepage   The pedal boat is a nice way to cool off on a warm day. You get to feel a bit of the sensation of riding on water. You can reach out and touch the water. You get to be out among the sounds of the water, pause, listen and hear those sounds. You see some of Redondo’s Harbor from the water. Piers look different from below and you’re closer to the fish. A pedal boat is also a great way to get some leg exercise; it takes a lot of pedaling a lot to cover any distance. And because the pace is slow and you’re not traveling quickly, it’s a perfect opportunity for conversation. Parents might enjoy these boats as a great way to take a younger child out on the water. We saw families go out, parent and child in one, the other parent and child in another, and siblings (or friends) together. These are not a great way to tour the harbor due to the amount of work and lack of speed though, so we recommend you also take a ride on the Voyager. (The Voyager is not part of the same rental stand and has a separate owner.) RB-pedal-boat_(0147)We took a pedal boat out for about an hour, getting out past and around some piers, then floating around for a while before turning back. (This is just us getting started; there was nobody to take a photo once we were further out.) For 2010 and 2011, hourly rental is $5/child & $10/adult. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com.

Kayak Rental

Kayaks are a different experience, and are another great way to cool off. You can rent either a single kayak or a double. We opted for the double as (a) it was Lisa’s first time on one and (b) we wanted to spend the time together. Kayaks are quiet, you can move slowly or cover a lot of ground quickly, they don’t require great effort, and although they might look as if they’ll put you over, they don’t. Kayaking is a great experience that anyone can enjoy. As Redondo Beach’s King Harbor is a protected area, it can be quite calm and can be a perfect first kayaking experience. The kayaks are sit-on-top style. You sit with your leges out in front of you and have a short back rest to lean back against. (It’s adjustable and the staff will help you get comfortable.) Because you’re climbing in from the dock, you don’t have to get wet, but there is a chance your bottom will get wet, and you might want it too as the water is fun. When it’s warm, you’ll dry off very quickly but you might bring a change of lower garments in your car or backpack just to be safe. A kayak paddle is a two-sided stick with paddles on each end. Holding it firmly in the center, you dip one end in first, then tilt the stick to dip the other end in the other side. One a double kayak you want to do this in synch. With a bit of luck you get a synchronized rhythm in a few strokes. The person in back steers by keeping a paddle in the water to turn. You can travel quite quickly in a kayak. RB-Kayaking-2-shots_(0142) We paddled out to the breakwater (the row of stones you see in the photo above) then headed to the right (north), then to the south (but not under the Municipal Pier as that is not permitted in rentals). It was fun to get up close to the sea lions, to see boats and yachts up close, and explore around many of the buildings. This was a good, reasonable exploration for an hour. For 2010 and 2011, hourly rental is $15/single & $25/double. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com. [/column][column]

Voyager Nature Cruise boat tours of the harbor & whale watching

RB-Voyager-coming-in_(1243) RB-Voyager-Ticket-booth_(1251)The Voyager is a two-level boat that, in the summer, takes you around the harbor and in winter brings you out to the migrating whales.       The summertime Nature Cruise is a 30-45 minute tour taking you out past the breakwater into the ocean to see the view and learn about the area. On board, you’ll travel a 3-4 mile loop to the base of Palos Verdes Peninsula and back. RB-Voyager-passengers_(1284)A Naturalist actually comes on the boat with each group and narrates the trip. [clearboth] In the warmth of summer, which in 2010 and again in 2011 seems to start in late July, guests see dolphins on almost every trip. (We were there too early to see them, so no dolphin photos here but this family had fun watching fish.) Sea lions are also always a hit with families — and adults. The Voyager boat ride is Redondo Beach’s best option for families — especially for children. This ride is an excellent introduction to boats, the ocean, and a view of the coast from the water. Captain Brad Sawyer, a fisherman turned whale captain, and the Naturalist were very friendly when the the more adventurous and inquisitive children came forward to see the cabin and ask questions. [clearboth] Voyager offers cruises:
  • on the hour from 4 p.m. – sunset on Friday evenings
  • 1pm to sunset on weekends, depending on the demand (Sunset is 7 or 8 p.m.)
They are available for private charters and event during the weekdays and weekends year round.

Whale watching on The Voyager

If you come to Redondo Beach during the winter months, you can take a whole different ride on The Voyager — going out further into the ocean to where the whales are as they are migrating. As we heard it, Captain Sawyer doesn’t just take the Voyager on a set route, hoping to see the migrating whales. We’re told he works hard to learn where the whales are, and goes out to them. To give you an idea of what the whale watching tour entails, the boat burns 5 gallons of gas on harbor area tour, but about 25 gallons when it goes out after the whales. You never know what a whale watching experience will be from one day to another. One trip brought quite the surprise when a Fin whale came right up to the boat! The whales feed on krill, Captain Sawyer explained, and the krill were hiding under the boat as they tend to do. The whale was simply going for the food. Imagine being on this boat as a Fin whale comes toward you! It was a bit of a scare, and certainly a thrill for everyone on board. Whale watching is possible while the whales are migrating down to Baja. Officially the season is from November or late December through mid-April. However, Voyager adjusts their schedule per the migration. For example, if Blue whales came through the area in fall 2011 like they did last fall, Voyager will again adjust their schedule do you have the opportunity to see them. Be sure to check VoyagerExcursions.com. for current schedules and daily whale sightings.
For info and reservations call 310-944-1219. You can also learn about fees, hours, and more for the Voyager at VoyagerExcursions.com. It’s particularly important to check their website for the whate watcing schedule. You can also learn about the whale sighting and excursions on their facebook page.

SSV Looking Glass Sub-Sea Tour

The SSV Looking Glass — a glass-sided boat — is a summer only experience, good for families. RB-LookingGlass-boat_(0090) Upon boarding the boat, everyone descends the stairs, moving below water level, then takes a seat in the center of the boat, looking outward to view the life within the ocean. Over the speakers Captain Casey tells you about the fish that come into view. After we passed the pier area and were a bit further out in the water, the boat stopped so we could rest among the fish and watch them better. We saw:
  • Opaleye Perch
  • Smelt
  • Garibaldi our state fish
  • Calico Bass (they have orange spots at their bottom)
  • Señorita
  • Sea stars (they’re not really called Star Fish)

Other fish I’m not sure we saw:

  • Smelt
  • Blacksmith Perch
RB-LookingGlass-Fish_(1390) Another stop was at this floating platform. The sea lions appear to like it and we enjoyed watching them. RB-kayak-&-looking-glass-sea-lions_(1184) Some of the children on board were quite excited by this entire Sub-Sea Tour; they were not only experiencing a boat for the first time, but also seeing and learning about ocean life for the first time. “Look here,” heard a child call out. “Oh, here!” a mother called. And the kids ran from one side or the boat to the other. (On this day the boat had enough room for them to do that.) One of the mothers we met on the Looking Glass said she lives an hour inland but hadn’t thought of bringing her children to the ocean like this, meaning to a harbor. Seeing how excited they were, she was so happy that she’d finally come. It was easy, she said. She’d be back. The Looking Glass doesn’t actually leave the protected area within the breakwater. It provides its full experience in a very small area, the same area you can kayak or pedal. But since it’s an under water it’s very different from any of the above the water activities. For 2010 and 2011, the ride is $10/child & $15/adult. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com.

Other things to do at Redondo Beach

Sport Fishing Pier

If you’re into fishing, you can fish on your own off the main pier — or visit the sport fishing pier to sign up for a charter fishing boat, or to purchase bait or other fishing supplies. RB-Sport-Fishing-boat_(1219)

Gondola Cruises

Gondola Amore offers romantic sunset or moonlight gondola rides around Redondo Harbor. RB-Gondola_(1245)    

More Kayaking

There’s another kayak rental as well, located on the tip of Potifino Way, at Rocky Point Marine Fuel. They rent skiffs (motorized rowboats) and kayaks.  

Sailing Lessons and Charters

There are also sailboats, lessons and charters. Check out South Bay Sailing if you’d like to learn to sail or improve your skills, or to charter a sail boat. They also have a Youth Camp. You can learn about all of this at SouthBaySailing.com.

Parking for these Redondo Beach activities

Off of North Harbor Drive, you’ll notice a huge uncovered parking lot where from north to south you’ll first see the Sport Fishing Pier (home to Polly’s), then Ruby’s Diner, a free-standing restaurant called Samba, one called On The Rocks, then Captain Kidds Fish Market and Delzano’s. This parking lot is the correct one for each of these restaurants — and for each of the water activities we discuss here, which take place not on the Municipal Pier, but at the wooden walkways just north of the larger cement pier. All the restaurants in this parking lot area validate your parking for 2 hours so. It will cost you $2 for those 2 hours. After that, parking is $2/hour, up to a $20 max. The FastKayak concerns (Looking Glass, kayaks and pedal boats) also cover “up to 2 hours” of your parking. Voyager validates as well. (They can’t validate if you park in the Municipal structure.) If you’re going to the Municipal Pier for meal, use that covered parking structure. Most of the restaurants validate your parking for a couple of hours. The price of parking is about the same for this parking structure. This parking pricing info is accurate for 2011. These are year-round rates.

Read about some Redondo Beach restaurant options on this next page. Learn about staying at the Redondo Beach Crowne Plaza hotel. [/column][/column-group]

]]>

Head to Redondo Beach!

Ah! The beach. Getting out on or in the water… A part of Los Angeles, a day at the beach & in the water…

by Deborah Shadovitz & Lisa Landis On any day when you’ve had enough of the Los Angeles heat, of endless pavement, cars, and homes, take a moment to remember that we in Los Angeles actually have an ocean and accessible beaches waiting to be enjoyed. Then give yourself a break and go enjoy the ocean air, the infinite view — and perhaps the different feeling of being in or on the water. One of the nicest, easiest places to do this is Redondo Beach. Go for a day, a few days, or just a few hours. Redondo Beach has clean water and a beach that’s expansive and clean. King Harbor provides a safe area for fishing and pleasure boats. The Municipal Pier is nice to walk along or fish from. There’s another Pier as well. Several excellent eateries are right in the area and there’s a nice strolling/shopping area as well. If you visit Redondo Beach in summer, you have the option of several on-the-water activities. In winter months there’s whale watching. And there is always bicycling and walking along with the great air and views. [column-group][column] When my cousin Lisa came to Los Angeles to visit, we headed straight out of my Los Angeles postal code and to the water-enhanced air of Redondo Beach. Although I live just about an hour away, we decided to stay overnight in Redondo, making it a true vacation. We stayed at the Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina Hotel, just a parking lot away from the beach and its activities. It’s a beautiful 339-room business class hotel that’s welcoming from the moment you walk into the marble lobby and notice the huge high salt water fish tank amid the varied, inviting seating areas. There on Sunday and Monday night, we were lucky enough to get an ocean-facing room, complete with our own balcony. (Every room has a private balcony.) We certainly loved starting and ending each day taking in view of the Pacific, King Harbor and the Redondo Beach Marina. Each of the rooms on the side of the Crowne Plaza also feature an ocean view as the windows are creatively set on an angle. There was so much to do though, that as nice as the room and hotel was, we headed out for the day. We did have plenty of time to enjoy the hotel, and especially its fine restaurant, Splash, later on. (More about the hotel.)

Bicycle The Strand & Riviera Village

One nice way to get to know Redondo Beach is to bicycle along the beach on The Strand and though some the town. We borrowed (rented) bikes from our hotel and spent a few hours on a nice, slow ride. We mention this first only because the sun tends to come out in the afternoon, so it’s best to bike in the morning.
  • If you’re a guest at the Crowne Plaza you can rent from the hotel through the Concierge (Bellhop).
  • Alternately, there’s a bike rental stand on North Harbor Drive directly across from the Crowne Plaza.
We turned left out of the hotel doors and cycled down North Harbor Dive a bit, then onto the Redondo Beach Municipal Pier. While on the Pier, per the rules, we walked our bikes as explored, stopping to watch people fishing (no permit needed) or just having fun, to enjoy the views, to talk. RB-Muni-Pier-from-bike_(0055) RB-Muni-PIer-logo_(0037) RB-MuniPier-fishing-MaisonRiz-NorthernBeach_(1455) Leaving the Pier we followed the bike path, bicycling further south on the paved beach path that is part of The Strand. RB-coastline-from-south-beach_(0069) We rode about two miles along the ocean, pretty much to the end of The Strand (around Torrance Beach) where the view north looked like this. Then we turned inland around Via Riviera and road a couple of blocks to cruise through Redondo Beach’s Riviera Village. RB-Riviera Village_(1489)Riviera Village is a bit of an upscale, old-worldish shopping main street said to have over 300 shops, restaurants and services. One shop we particularly liked was Harmony Works, full of lovely works of art, gifts and jewelry.  [clearboth] RB-bike-by-Yacht-club_(1147)Continuing north, we passed our hotel, the Crowne Plaza and continued on to explore the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club and Rocky Point. The boats, the views, and the water were, of course, beautiful and magical.
By the time we’d had enough riding we were ready for lunch and some time on the water. If our goal hadn’t been to see Redondo Beach, we could have bicycled north instead, as The Strand runs all the way to Pacific Palisades, north of Santa Monica. You can read about The Strand on wikipedia.  

Pedal Boat Rental

Along the wooden pier that’s off the open parking lot, you’ll find a yellow booth for the SSV Looking Glass, Pedal boats and Kayaks. All are options for fun on the water (and are only open in summer months). RB-Boat-Rental_(0150) homepage   The pedal boat is a nice way to cool off on a warm day. You get to feel a bit of the sensation of riding on water. You can reach out and touch the water. You get to be out among the sounds of the water, pause, listen and hear those sounds. You see some of Redondo’s Harbor from the water. Piers look different from below and you’re closer to the fish. A pedal boat is also a great way to get some leg exercise; it takes a lot of pedaling a lot to cover any distance. And because the pace is slow and you’re not traveling quickly, it’s a perfect opportunity for conversation. Parents might enjoy these boats as a great way to take a younger child out on the water. We saw families go out, parent and child in one, the other parent and child in another, and siblings (or friends) together. These are not a great way to tour the harbor due to the amount of work and lack of speed though, so we recommend you also take a ride on the Voyager. (The Voyager is not part of the same rental stand and has a separate owner.) RB-pedal-boat_(0147)We took a pedal boat out for about an hour, getting out past and around some piers, then floating around for a while before turning back. (This is just us getting started; there was nobody to take a photo once we were further out.) For 2010 and 2011, hourly rental is $5/child & $10/adult. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com.

Kayak Rental

Kayaks are a different experience, and are another great way to cool off. You can rent either a single kayak or a double. We opted for the double as (a) it was Lisa’s first time on one and (b) we wanted to spend the time together. Kayaks are quiet, you can move slowly or cover a lot of ground quickly, they don’t require great effort, and although they might look as if they’ll put you over, they don’t. Kayaking is a great experience that anyone can enjoy. As Redondo Beach’s King Harbor is a protected area, it can be quite calm and can be a perfect first kayaking experience. The kayaks are sit-on-top style. You sit with your leges out in front of you and have a short back rest to lean back against. (It’s adjustable and the staff will help you get comfortable.) Because you’re climbing in from the dock, you don’t have to get wet, but there is a chance your bottom will get wet, and you might want it too as the water is fun. When it’s warm, you’ll dry off very quickly but you might bring a change of lower garments in your car or backpack just to be safe. A kayak paddle is a two-sided stick with paddles on each end. Holding it firmly in the center, you dip one end in first, then tilt the stick to dip the other end in the other side. One a double kayak you want to do this in synch. With a bit of luck you get a synchronized rhythm in a few strokes. The person in back steers by keeping a paddle in the water to turn. You can travel quite quickly in a kayak. RB-Kayaking-2-shots_(0142) We paddled out to the breakwater (the row of stones you see in the photo above) then headed to the right (north), then to the south (but not under the Municipal Pier as that is not permitted in rentals). It was fun to get up close to the sea lions, to see boats and yachts up close, and explore around many of the buildings. This was a good, reasonable exploration for an hour. For 2010 and 2011, hourly rental is $15/single & $25/double. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com. [/column][column]

Voyager Nature Cruise boat tours of the harbor & whale watching

RB-Voyager-coming-in_(1243) RB-Voyager-Ticket-booth_(1251)The Voyager is a two-level boat that, in the summer, takes you around the harbor and in winter brings you out to the migrating whales.       The summertime Nature Cruise is a 30-45 minute tour taking you out past the breakwater into the ocean to see the view and learn about the area. On board, you’ll travel a 3-4 mile loop to the base of Palos Verdes Peninsula and back. RB-Voyager-passengers_(1284)A Naturalist actually comes on the boat with each group and narrates the trip. [clearboth] In the warmth of summer, which in 2010 and again in 2011 seems to start in late July, guests see dolphins on almost every trip. (We were there too early to see them, so no dolphin photos here but this family had fun watching fish.) Sea lions are also always a hit with families — and adults. The Voyager boat ride is Redondo Beach’s best option for families — especially for children. This ride is an excellent introduction to boats, the ocean, and a view of the coast from the water. Captain Brad Sawyer, a fisherman turned whale captain, and the Naturalist were very friendly when the the more adventurous and inquisitive children came forward to see the cabin and ask questions. [clearboth] Voyager offers cruises:
  • on the hour from 4 p.m. – sunset on Friday evenings
  • 1pm to sunset on weekends, depending on the demand (Sunset is 7 or 8 p.m.)
They are available for private charters and event during the weekdays and weekends year round.

Whale watching on The Voyager

If you come to Redondo Beach during the winter months, you can take a whole different ride on The Voyager — going out further into the ocean to where the whales are as they are migrating. As we heard it, Captain Sawyer doesn’t just take the Voyager on a set route, hoping to see the migrating whales. We’re told he works hard to learn where the whales are, and goes out to them. To give you an idea of what the whale watching tour entails, the boat burns 5 gallons of gas on harbor area tour, but about 25 gallons when it goes out after the whales. You never know what a whale watching experience will be from one day to another. One trip brought quite the surprise when a Fin whale came right up to the boat! The whales feed on krill, Captain Sawyer explained, and the krill were hiding under the boat as they tend to do. The whale was simply going for the food. Imagine being on this boat as a Fin whale comes toward you! It was a bit of a scare, and certainly a thrill for everyone on board. Whale watching is possible while the whales are migrating down to Baja. Officially the season is from November or late December through mid-April. However, Voyager adjusts their schedule per the migration. For example, if Blue whales came through the area in fall 2011 like they did last fall, Voyager will again adjust their schedule do you have the opportunity to see them. Be sure to check VoyagerExcursions.com. for current schedules and daily whale sightings.
For info and reservations call 310-944-1219. You can also learn about fees, hours, and more for the Voyager at VoyagerExcursions.com. It’s particularly important to check their website for the whate watcing schedule. You can also learn about the whale sighting and excursions on their facebook page.

SSV Looking Glass Sub-Sea Tour

The SSV Looking Glass — a glass-sided boat — is a summer only experience, good for families. RB-LookingGlass-boat_(0090) Upon boarding the boat, everyone descends the stairs, moving below water level, then takes a seat in the center of the boat, looking outward to view the life within the ocean. Over the speakers Captain Casey tells you about the fish that come into view. After we passed the pier area and were a bit further out in the water, the boat stopped so we could rest among the fish and watch them better. We saw:
  • Opaleye Perch
  • Smelt
  • Garibaldi our state fish
  • Calico Bass (they have orange spots at their bottom)
  • Señorita
  • Sea stars (they’re not really called Star Fish)

Other fish I’m not sure we saw:

  • Smelt
  • Blacksmith Perch
RB-LookingGlass-Fish_(1390) Another stop was at this floating platform. The sea lions appear to like it and we enjoyed watching them. RB-kayak-&-looking-glass-sea-lions_(1184) Some of the children on board were quite excited by this entire Sub-Sea Tour; they were not only experiencing a boat for the first time, but also seeing and learning about ocean life for the first time. “Look here,” heard a child call out. “Oh, here!” a mother called. And the kids ran from one side or the boat to the other. (On this day the boat had enough room for them to do that.) One of the mothers we met on the Looking Glass said she lives an hour inland but hadn’t thought of bringing her children to the ocean like this, meaning to a harbor. Seeing how excited they were, she was so happy that she’d finally come. It was easy, she said. She’d be back. The Looking Glass doesn’t actually leave the protected area within the breakwater. It provides its full experience in a very small area, the same area you can kayak or pedal. But since it’s an under water it’s very different from any of the above the water activities. For 2010 and 2011, the ride is $10/child & $15/adult. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com.

Other things to do at Redondo Beach

Sport Fishing Pier

If you’re into fishing, you can fish on your own off the main pier — or visit the sport fishing pier to sign up for a charter fishing boat, or to purchase bait or other fishing supplies. RB-Sport-Fishing-boat_(1219)

Gondola Cruises

Gondola Amore offers romantic sunset or moonlight gondola rides around Redondo Harbor. RB-Gondola_(1245)    

More Kayaking

There’s another kayak rental as well, located on the tip of Potifino Way, at Rocky Point Marine Fuel. They rent skiffs (motorized rowboats) and kayaks.  

Sailing Lessons and Charters

There are also sailboats, lessons and charters. Check out South Bay Sailing if you’d like to learn to sail or improve your skills, or to charter a sail boat. They also have a Youth Camp. You can learn about all of this at SouthBaySailing.com.

Parking for these Redondo Beach activities

Off of North Harbor Drive, you’ll notice a huge uncovered parking lot where from north to south you’ll first see the Sport Fishing Pier (home to Polly’s), then Ruby’s Diner, a free-standing restaurant called Samba, one called On The Rocks, then Captain Kidds Fish Market and Delzano’s. This parking lot is the correct one for each of these restaurants — and for each of the water activities we discuss here, which take place not on the Municipal Pier, but at the wooden walkways just north of the larger cement pier. All the restaurants in this parking lot area validate your parking for 2 hours so. It will cost you $2 for those 2 hours. After that, parking is $2/hour, up to a $20 max. The FastKayak concerns (Looking Glass, kayaks and pedal boats) also cover “up to 2 hours” of your parking. Voyager validates as well. (They can’t validate if you park in the Municipal structure.) If you’re going to the Municipal Pier for meal, use that covered parking structure. Most of the restaurants validate your parking for a couple of hours. The price of parking is about the same for this parking structure. This parking pricing info is accurate for 2011. These are year-round rates.

Read about some Redondo Beach restaurant options on this next page. Learn about staying at the Redondo Beach Crowne Plaza hotel. [/column][/column-group]

]]>

Head to Redondo Beach!

Ah! The beach. Getting out on or in the water… A part of Los Angeles, a day at the beach & in the water…

by Deborah Shadovitz & Lisa Landis On any day when you’ve had enough of the Los Angeles heat, of endless pavement, cars, and homes, take a moment to remember that we in Los Angeles actually have an ocean and accessible beaches waiting to be enjoyed. Then give yourself a break and go enjoy the ocean air, the infinite view — and perhaps the different feeling of being in or on the water. One of the nicest, easiest places to do this is Redondo Beach. Go for a day, a few days, or just a few hours. Redondo Beach has clean water and a beach that’s expansive and clean. King Harbor provides a safe area for fishing and pleasure boats. The Municipal Pier is nice to walk along or fish from. There’s another Pier as well. Several excellent eateries are right in the area and there’s a nice strolling/shopping area as well. If you visit Redondo Beach in summer, you have the option of several on-the-water activities. In winter months there’s whale watching. And there is always bicycling and walking along with the great air and views. [column-group][column] When my cousin Lisa came to Los Angeles to visit, we headed straight out of my Los Angeles postal code and to the water-enhanced air of Redondo Beach. Although I live just about an hour away, we decided to stay overnight in Redondo, making it a true vacation. We stayed at the Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina Hotel, just a parking lot away from the beach and its activities. It’s a beautiful 339-room business class hotel that’s welcoming from the moment you walk into the marble lobby and notice the huge high salt water fish tank amid the varied, inviting seating areas. There on Sunday and Monday night, we were lucky enough to get an ocean-facing room, complete with our own balcony. (Every room has a private balcony.) We certainly loved starting and ending each day taking in view of the Pacific, King Harbor and the Redondo Beach Marina. Each of the rooms on the side of the Crowne Plaza also feature an ocean view as the windows are creatively set on an angle. There was so much to do though, that as nice as the room and hotel was, we headed out for the day. We did have plenty of time to enjoy the hotel, and especially its fine restaurant, Splash, later on. (More about the hotel.)

Bicycle The Strand & Riviera Village

One nice way to get to know Redondo Beach is to bicycle along the beach on The Strand and though some the town. We borrowed (rented) bikes from our hotel and spent a few hours on a nice, slow ride. We mention this first only because the sun tends to come out in the afternoon, so it’s best to bike in the morning.
  • If you’re a guest at the Crowne Plaza you can rent from the hotel through the Concierge (Bellhop).
  • Alternately, there’s a bike rental stand on North Harbor Drive directly across from the Crowne Plaza.
We turned left out of the hotel doors and cycled down North Harbor Dive a bit, then onto the Redondo Beach Municipal Pier. While on the Pier, per the rules, we walked our bikes as explored, stopping to watch people fishing (no permit needed) or just having fun, to enjoy the views, to talk. RB-Muni-Pier-from-bike_(0055) RB-Muni-PIer-logo_(0037) RB-MuniPier-fishing-MaisonRiz-NorthernBeach_(1455) Leaving the Pier we followed the bike path, bicycling further south on the paved beach path that is part of The Strand. RB-coastline-from-south-beach_(0069) We rode about two miles along the ocean, pretty much to the end of The Strand (around Torrance Beach) where the view north looked like this. Then we turned inland around Via Riviera and road a couple of blocks to cruise through Redondo Beach’s Riviera Village. RB-Riviera Village_(1489)Riviera Village is a bit of an upscale, old-worldish shopping main street said to have over 300 shops, restaurants and services. One shop we particularly liked was Harmony Works, full of lovely works of art, gifts and jewelry.  [clearboth] RB-bike-by-Yacht-club_(1147)Continuing north, we passed our hotel, the Crowne Plaza and continued on to explore the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club and Rocky Point. The boats, the views, and the water were, of course, beautiful and magical.
By the time we’d had enough riding we were ready for lunch and some time on the water. If our goal hadn’t been to see Redondo Beach, we could have bicycled north instead, as The Strand runs all the way to Pacific Palisades, north of Santa Monica. You can read about The Strand on wikipedia.  

Pedal Boat Rental

Along the wooden pier that’s off the open parking lot, you’ll find a yellow booth for the SSV Looking Glass, Pedal boats and Kayaks. All are options for fun on the water (and are only open in summer months). RB-Boat-Rental_(0150) homepage   The pedal boat is a nice way to cool off on a warm day. You get to feel a bit of the sensation of riding on water. You can reach out and touch the water. You get to be out among the sounds of the water, pause, listen and hear those sounds. You see some of Redondo’s Harbor from the water. Piers look different from below and you’re closer to the fish. A pedal boat is also a great way to get some leg exercise; it takes a lot of pedaling a lot to cover any distance. And because the pace is slow and you’re not traveling quickly, it’s a perfect opportunity for conversation. Parents might enjoy these boats as a great way to take a younger child out on the water. We saw families go out, parent and child in one, the other parent and child in another, and siblings (or friends) together. These are not a great way to tour the harbor due to the amount of work and lack of speed though, so we recommend you also take a ride on the Voyager. (The Voyager is not part of the same rental stand and has a separate owner.) RB-pedal-boat_(0147)We took a pedal boat out for about an hour, getting out past and around some piers, then floating around for a while before turning back. (This is just us getting started; there was nobody to take a photo once we were further out.) For 2010 and 2011, hourly rental is $5/child & $10/adult. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com.

Kayak Rental

Kayaks are a different experience, and are another great way to cool off. You can rent either a single kayak or a double. We opted for the double as (a) it was Lisa’s first time on one and (b) we wanted to spend the time together. Kayaks are quiet, you can move slowly or cover a lot of ground quickly, they don’t require great effort, and although they might look as if they’ll put you over, they don’t. Kayaking is a great experience that anyone can enjoy. As Redondo Beach’s King Harbor is a protected area, it can be quite calm and can be a perfect first kayaking experience. The kayaks are sit-on-top style. You sit with your leges out in front of you and have a short back rest to lean back against. (It’s adjustable and the staff will help you get comfortable.) Because you’re climbing in from the dock, you don’t have to get wet, but there is a chance your bottom will get wet, and you might want it too as the water is fun. When it’s warm, you’ll dry off very quickly but you might bring a change of lower garments in your car or backpack just to be safe. A kayak paddle is a two-sided stick with paddles on each end. Holding it firmly in the center, you dip one end in first, then tilt the stick to dip the other end in the other side. One a double kayak you want to do this in synch. With a bit of luck you get a synchronized rhythm in a few strokes. The person in back steers by keeping a paddle in the water to turn. You can travel quite quickly in a kayak. RB-Kayaking-2-shots_(0142) We paddled out to the breakwater (the row of stones you see in the photo above) then headed to the right (north), then to the south (but not under the Municipal Pier as that is not permitted in rentals). It was fun to get up close to the sea lions, to see boats and yachts up close, and explore around many of the buildings. This was a good, reasonable exploration for an hour. For 2010 and 2011, hourly rental is $15/single & $25/double. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com. [/column][column]

Voyager Nature Cruise boat tours of the harbor & whale watching

RB-Voyager-coming-in_(1243) RB-Voyager-Ticket-booth_(1251)The Voyager is a two-level boat that, in the summer, takes you around the harbor and in winter brings you out to the migrating whales.       The summertime Nature Cruise is a 30-45 minute tour taking you out past the breakwater into the ocean to see the view and learn about the area. On board, you’ll travel a 3-4 mile loop to the base of Palos Verdes Peninsula and back. RB-Voyager-passengers_(1284)A Naturalist actually comes on the boat with each group and narrates the trip. [clearboth] In the warmth of summer, which in 2010 and again in 2011 seems to start in late July, guests see dolphins on almost every trip. (We were there too early to see them, so no dolphin photos here but this family had fun watching fish.) Sea lions are also always a hit with families — and adults. The Voyager boat ride is Redondo Beach’s best option for families — especially for children. This ride is an excellent introduction to boats, the ocean, and a view of the coast from the water. Captain Brad Sawyer, a fisherman turned whale captain, and the Naturalist were very friendly when the the more adventurous and inquisitive children came forward to see the cabin and ask questions. [clearboth] Voyager offers cruises:
  • on the hour from 4 p.m. – sunset on Friday evenings
  • 1pm to sunset on weekends, depending on the demand (Sunset is 7 or 8 p.m.)
They are available for private charters and event during the weekdays and weekends year round.

Whale watching on The Voyager

If you come to Redondo Beach during the winter months, you can take a whole different ride on The Voyager — going out further into the ocean to where the whales are as they are migrating. As we heard it, Captain Sawyer doesn’t just take the Voyager on a set route, hoping to see the migrating whales. We’re told he works hard to learn where the whales are, and goes out to them. To give you an idea of what the whale watching tour entails, the boat burns 5 gallons of gas on harbor area tour, but about 25 gallons when it goes out after the whales. You never know what a whale watching experience will be from one day to another. One trip brought quite the surprise when a Fin whale came right up to the boat! The whales feed on krill, Captain Sawyer explained, and the krill were hiding under the boat as they tend to do. The whale was simply going for the food. Imagine being on this boat as a Fin whale comes toward you! It was a bit of a scare, and certainly a thrill for everyone on board. Whale watching is possible while the whales are migrating down to Baja. Officially the season is from November or late December through mid-April. However, Voyager adjusts their schedule per the migration. For example, if Blue whales came through the area in fall 2011 like they did last fall, Voyager will again adjust their schedule do you have the opportunity to see them. Be sure to check VoyagerExcursions.com. for current schedules and daily whale sightings.
For info and reservations call 310-944-1219. You can also learn about fees, hours, and more for the Voyager at VoyagerExcursions.com. It’s particularly important to check their website for the whate watcing schedule. You can also learn about the whale sighting and excursions on their facebook page.

SSV Looking Glass Sub-Sea Tour

The SSV Looking Glass — a glass-sided boat — is a summer only experience, good for families. RB-LookingGlass-boat_(0090) Upon boarding the boat, everyone descends the stairs, moving below water level, then takes a seat in the center of the boat, looking outward to view the life within the ocean. Over the speakers Captain Casey tells you about the fish that come into view. After we passed the pier area and were a bit further out in the water, the boat stopped so we could rest among the fish and watch them better. We saw:
  • Opaleye Perch
  • Smelt
  • Garibaldi our state fish
  • Calico Bass (they have orange spots at their bottom)
  • Señorita
  • Sea stars (they’re not really called Star Fish)

Other fish I’m not sure we saw:

  • Smelt
  • Blacksmith Perch
RB-LookingGlass-Fish_(1390) Another stop was at this floating platform. The sea lions appear to like it and we enjoyed watching them. RB-kayak-&-looking-glass-sea-lions_(1184) Some of the children on board were quite excited by this entire Sub-Sea Tour; they were not only experiencing a boat for the first time, but also seeing and learning about ocean life for the first time. “Look here,” heard a child call out. “Oh, here!” a mother called. And the kids ran from one side or the boat to the other. (On this day the boat had enough room for them to do that.) One of the mothers we met on the Looking Glass said she lives an hour inland but hadn’t thought of bringing her children to the ocean like this, meaning to a harbor. Seeing how excited they were, she was so happy that she’d finally come. It was easy, she said. She’d be back. The Looking Glass doesn’t actually leave the protected area within the breakwater. It provides its full experience in a very small area, the same area you can kayak or pedal. But since it’s an under water it’s very different from any of the above the water activities. For 2010 and 2011, the ride is $10/child & $15/adult. For hours of operation, visit this page at FastKayak.com.

Other things to do at Redondo Beach

Sport Fishing Pier

If you’re into fishing, you can fish on your own off the main pier — or visit the sport fishing pier to sign up for a charter fishing boat, or to purchase bait or other fishing supplies. RB-Sport-Fishing-boat_(1219)

Gondola Cruises

Gondola Amore offers romantic sunset or moonlight gondola rides around Redondo Harbor. RB-Gondola_(1245)    

More Kayaking

There’s another kayak rental as well, located on the tip of Potifino Way, at Rocky Point Marine Fuel. They rent skiffs (motorized rowboats) and kayaks.  

Sailing Lessons and Charters

There are also sailboats, lessons and charters. Check out South Bay Sailing if you’d like to learn to sail or improve your skills, or to charter a sail boat. They also have a Youth Camp. You can learn about all of this at SouthBaySailing.com.

Parking for these Redondo Beach activities

Off of North Harbor Drive, you’ll notice a huge uncovered parking lot where from north to south you’ll first see the Sport Fishing Pier (home to Polly’s), then Ruby’s Diner, a free-standing restaurant called Samba, one called On The Rocks, then Captain Kidds Fish Market and Delzano’s. This parking lot is the correct one for each of these restaurants — and for each of the water activities we discuss here, which take place not on the Municipal Pier, but at the wooden walkways just north of the larger cement pier. All the restaurants in this parking lot area validate your parking for 2 hours so. It will cost you $2 for those 2 hours. After that, parking is $2/hour, up to a $20 max. The FastKayak concerns (Looking Glass, kayaks and pedal boats) also cover “up to 2 hours” of your parking. Voyager validates as well. (They can’t validate if you park in the Municipal structure.) If you’re going to the Municipal Pier for meal, use that covered parking structure. Most of the restaurants validate your parking for a couple of hours. The price of parking is about the same for this parking structure. This parking pricing info is accurate for 2011. These are year-round rates.

Read about some Redondo Beach restaurant options on this next page. Learn about staying at the Redondo Beach Crowne Plaza hotel. [/column][/column-group]

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The Kern River is close enough that from the Los Angeles area, you can leave home in the morning, enjoy a day or two on the river (camping overnight), and return home. One of my friends did just that. I wanted more relaxation so my other companion Lorrie and I stayed in Kernville before and after our two-day rafting holiday. For our first night, I wanted to experience the town, so I selected the Kernville Inn, which sits beside the river and is right on the main street. After our trip, we stayed outside of town at Chuck Richard’s Falling Waters Resort. As both, our “room” included a kitchen and living room, great for families and long stays.  

Kernville Inn

kern-KernvilleInn_mainroomThe 28-room Kernville Inn, built around 1957, was purchased by a new owner around 2006 and was fully remodeled. Owner Tim Ryan calls it country style, but it’s woodsy and stone fireplace country decor, not ruffles. This is a great hotel for families or groups that want to be on the river and downtown near the bar and shops. About half of the rooms face the river. Most rooms have patios, seven have kitchens, four have microwave and mini-fridge, and two have a second bedroom. All rooms are non-smoking inside. (You can smoke outside.) There’s a pool out front, and yes, free wi-fi that should reach all the rooms. I fully enjoyed our large, comfortable room and private patio. When we were there are large group was staying in the row of river-facing rooms, enjoying each other’s company on the wide lawn outside their front doors. It was perfect for their group Bar-B-Q, too. This is just steps from the river, making it easy for both children and adults to run over and cool off. This is perfect for such group holidays. (Had we not seen the group, we’d never have known they were there. There was no noise issue for us on the other side of the hotel.) [clearboth] Folks wanting to enjoy the live music right across the street in what amounts to downtown Kernville, can just walk over and not worry about driving home. kern-KernvilleInn_riverside A .2 mile walk away you’ll find the Sierra Gateway Market, which “is huge and sells everything” according to my friend Lorrie, who ran in to get Advil after our first river run. Across from the Sierra Gateway Market is the Kern River Brewing Company, a good place for a real burger and fresh-brewed beer. kern-KernvilleFromInn
Kernville Inn 11042 Kernville Road, Kernville, CA 93238 KernvilleInn.com (760) 376-2206
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Falling Waters Resort

Chuck Richard’s place is off the beaten path, but just 2.4 miles from the town, making it an excellent getaway. I’m told people love to stay for weeks and fish. It’s also terrific for families, and families do, indeed, come for their summer vacation. Its 13 acres even include meeting facilities. Standing outside of our River View cottage, and looking down, I could see some the Lickety Split section of the river. I loved the sound of the river, remembering the thrill of rafting it with Chuck. The River View cottages are in a serene and relaxing, location where the air is fresh from the moving water below and greeenery all around. Other cottages face a children’s playgroud, or woods. kern_falling_waters_resortFalling Waters is like a tiny town of 15 free-standing buildings, comprising 30 cottages. All but three cottages contain kitchen stoves, kitchen tables, fireplaces, and couches. There’s a pool in the center of the grounds, playground equipment for kids, and Bar-B-Qs. The staff also has roaster ovens, electric skillets, blenders and more. Just ask. All rooms are non-smoking inside, and of course, there’s free wi-fi reaching most cottages. When you see Chuck’s cottages you’ll know part of why the folks who work here enjoy their jobs and part of why guests get an extra kick out of staying there. Each cottage has its own theme — from colors and curtains to tchotchkes that build its personality. We stayed in the Lilac suite, below. kern_falling_waters_resort2Next door to us the theme was Under the Sea. Others include King Arthur’s Chamber and Christmas Egyptian Nile which you see below, Pirates Cove, and the heart-filled Romance. It’s unique fun. The staff gets into it, adding pieces they find where ever they may go. [clearright] Because it’s 2 miles from the Sierra Gateway Market and the nearest eateries, you’ll likely want to use your car while staying here. Or, as many families and fishermen do, bring your week’s food supplies.
Falling Waters Resort 15729 Sierra Way, Kernville, CA 93238 ChuckRichards.com/Kern (760) 376-2242

[hr] Hotel photos by Laureen Mitchell

#LAAL

Previous page: things to do around Lake Isabella

First page: rafting the River Kern

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Kernville & Lake Isabella: Things to do besides rafting This is page 2 of 3 of our article about rafting on the Kern River. Kernville is a tiny town that borders the river. Aside from private homes that reach into the mountains, it’s pretty much a small town center and one other street. You won’t find large hotels or chains here. Think cabins, B&B, small eateries, and local-only businesses. Kernville is about getting away and experiencing nature. One business owner said, “one of the attractions of Kern County is that you can hurt yourself. It’s kind of wild and unregulated.”

Things to Do

On Lake Isabella

Lake Isabella lies between the Lower and Upper Kern. It is actually a reservoir with an ever-changing water level. Trying to get to the lake for recreation, you’re likely to drive right past it, puzzling over where the entrance to the activity is. This is not a built-up resort full of rental stands and food concessions. [caption id="attachment_674" align="alignright" width="357"]kern-North_Fork_Marina North Fork Marina before the summer season started.[/caption] There are plenty of rugged campgrounds right around the lake, two marinas — and that’s it. Because of the ever-changing water level and the desire to keep the area natural, the U.S. Forest Service won’t permit permanent structures. (In case it matters to you, this is porta-potty land.) The two marinas on the lake — North Fork Marina (below) and French Gulch — are the only buildings on the lake and they’re literally on the lake, fully afloat. Activities on Lake Isabella are largely uncontrolled, except for diligent lake patrol helping keep you safe. There are no regulations for 2-stroke engines, so people enjoy wave runners. You’ll find people fishing, sailing, wind surfing, kite surfing, kayaking and water-skiing all together. If you own a boat, you’re welcome to bring it. Boat permits are required. You can purchase a permit at French Gulch Marina. For the rest of us, there are reasonably-priced rentals available at the two marinas. Owners Deb and Bill Chase, who started as vacationers from Los Angeles, have about 70 water vehicles for rent. They offer pontoon boats (great for parties or groups), fishing boats, wave runners and hard-shell kayaks for rent, and some inflatables for sale. With rentals, help or supplies from the marinas, Lake Isabella can be a great place for a party or company get-away. Deb Chace is known for creating large customized events for children, adults, and special-needs groups.
North Fork Marina and French Gulch Owned by Bill and Deb Chase Northforkmarina.com Open year-round. (760)-376-1812 FrenchGulchMarina.com Open year-round. (760) 379-8774 Note: The marinas move, so phone for directions.
 

Annual Isabella Lake Fishing Derby

The 22nd Annual Isabella Lake Fishing Derby will take place April 16-18, 2011 and offer over $250,000 in prizes. Derby.KernRiverValley.com
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A note about signage

Once you’re outside of Kernville proper — in the in the parks/camping/historic areas — signage is scarce because the US Forest Service wants to keep things natural. Be sure to get clear directions to all things that are off of main roads. For example, told about a mine to visit, we listened to directions, found the small sign on the side of the road and think we turned off at the correct point, but after that there were no signs. We never did find the mine.
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Things to Do In Kernville

Our time in Kernville was too short so we didn’t get to experience as much as we could have. Thus, these are just a few things your family might enjoy right in Kernville.

Kern Valley Museum

Kernville, originally called Whiskey Flat, was the true Wild West. The Kern Valley Museum, run by the Kern River Valley Historical Society, and located right in town, is full of items and stories from the days of prospectors and miners, saloon patrons, shootings, and outlaws. I liked the story of a bar fight that led to an Ore discovery and the creation of another mine, with both men becoming partners! The museum has mining equipment, stuff from old movie days, the story of the Isabella Dam, and even prehistoric artifacts.
Admission is Free Open 10-4 Thursday-Saturday. If you can’t get there during museum hours, come over anyway and enjoy the items and info that are out front. Kern Valley Museum 49 Big Blue Road Kernville, CA 93238 KernValleyMuseum.org (760) 376-6683

Visit a Mine

This sounds like a fun thing to do with children. Be sure to get directions though. We can’t tell you about a visit because we never found one.

Fish Hatchery

The Fish Hatchery on Sierra Way is also said to be an interesting visit. The river is known for its Rainbow and Golden Trout.

Camp at Frandy Park

[caption id="attachment_670" align="alignright" width="347"]kern-Frandy, view from Kernville Inn This view of Frandy and the River is from the Kernville Inn[/caption] The Frandy Park campground is literally along the Kern River, and right downtown. In our article about rafting the Kern River, we talk about the rafting rental facilities that we’ve enjoyed. But there’s also the camp ground aspect. There is tent camping as well as RV. Frandy.net [clearboth]

Enjoy the Water

I can’t provide details of the water activities and water safety here, but Lorrie and I saw families enjoying the shores of the Kern, right in town and at Frandy Park. We were told there was a safe swimming area not far from the center of town. The KRV Novelty Company, located right in town, sold inflatables and can likely give advice. Please refer back to the bottom of our rafting article for info about them. [hr]

Things to Do Near Kernville

The Kern Valley Golf Course

On the way into Kernville from Bakersfield — two miles west of Kernville on Highway 155 — you’ll pass a very unpretentious-looking entrance to a PGA rated, Par 72 course and driving range. It’s open all year, 7 days a week. Men’s Tees are rated as 68.0 / Slope 106 Women’s Tee are rated as 71.3 / Slope 116 Our golf columnists have not played this course yet. KernValley.com/news/kvgolf.htm (760) 376-2828

Silver City Ghost Town Silver City Ghost Town

Silver City Ghost Town, a collection of historic local Kern Valley structures, is located south of Lake Isabella in Bodfish, California. We have not been there to tell you about it, but it may be fun for kids. 3829 Lake Isabella Blvd. Bodfish, CA 93205 LakeIsabella.net/SilverCity Map  

Giant Sequoia National Monument Trail of a Hundred Giants

45 miles northwest of Kernville is near the Southern Gateway to the giant sequoias. Some trails can be driven by car. Access depends upon weather. We have not been there to tell you about it. KernValley.com/news/trail100.htm

Horseback Riding

Sorry we can’t shed any light on this but we can offer it as a suggestion that you can look into. [hr]

Resources

 #LAAL

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White water rafting in Southern California!

About 21/2 hours north of Los Angeles, 60 miles NE of Bakersfield…

  by Deborah S. Shadovitz As my friends and I meandered down a slower part of the River Kern on a warm summer day, I found myself thinking it’s a pity that every American doesn’t get to raft this beautiful river through this magnificent canyon. Rafting is a perfect shared experience: relaxation, flowing water, sun, great food, and the rewarding feeling of getting past hurdles because of teamwork. [clearboth]   Since the mid 1970s, the Kern River has been a prime spot for rafting. One reason is Lake Isabella, which sits below the Upper Kern holding water to feed the Lower Kern. The River Kern rafting season begins in April when the snows atop Mt Whitney melt into the Upper Kern, filling it and making it an active adventure. It ends around the end of August, when the water in the Lower Kern becomes too shallow. There are several ways you can experience rafting on the Kern, water levels dictating your options and the specifics of your trip.
  • There’s the 3-mile Lickety Split out of Kernville.
  • For experienced rafters there’s the Thunder Run on the Upper Kern in April/May while the snow melt creates fast-running water.
  • There are half, full, or two-day trips on the Lower Kern.
The Lickety Split, 3-mile run on the Upper Kern, is a good, quick introduction to rafting. This is adventurous when the snow’s melting in April/May; mellow and great for young families starting in June. With Kern River rafting legend Chuck Richards, at the helm, my friend and I ran the Lickety Split when the water was high in mid-May and it was a rushing 40-minute adventure. Later in the summer, it can take 1½ hours and be a fun-filled but relaxing day. Because there are seven rafting companies commercially doing this run and it’s relatively short, even during the busy season, you should be able to get into it without a reservation. For example, you can just show up at Frandy Park, right along the river in Kernville, to ride with Kern River Tours or Eagle Rafting. You can’t show up too late in the day to make the run though, so it’s still best to call ahead. For a fuller rafting experience, especially after May, you’ll want to be on the Lower Kern. There are four companies you can choose between for that. The U.S. Forest Service restricts the number of tour licenses to keep river traffic down, and also limits the number of people each company can launch each day, so you’ll need to reserve this ahead of time, at least calling a day ahead. At times a portion of the river may run too fast or is too shallow. Your guides will adjust your trip to accomodate the river, so you may get out or your rafts and be driven past those areas. You may then re-run some portion instead. Interestingly, you may not even recognize a re-run area because the river is never exactly the same.

White Water Classes

You’ll hear the water described Class I-VI. This refers to the amount of white water — the speed, height and challenge of the water. Class I is calm, II gives you a bit of a kick, and IV will have that foamy white water coming up and hitting you. (V requires experience and VI is not runnable.)

Intro to Rafting with Kern River Tours

For my rafting introduction, I chose Kern River Tours because it’s the longest-running company there, it’s independently owned, and its managing owner Kenny Bushling is a Kernville native who began as a rafting guide himself in 1986. rafting-the-kern_OarsUp-026Two friends (Lorrie and Gary) and I did KRT’s two-day trip which gave us the opportunity to become familiar with rafting the first day, building to faster water the next. I’d liked that we stopped for lunch and also had opportunities to jump out of the rafts and swim. We rough camped, enjoying an excellent full-course dinner prepared by our guides. The 2nd day, after a heaty breakfast again prepared for us, we progressed further down the river and its Class III and IV waters. From the moment we arrived at the KRT office in Lake Isabella, we felt we were among friends and knew we were in for a great time. This trip was about socializing and enjoying being outdoors as much as rafting. Before we started out, we got a detailed paddling lesson, learning to power the oars by moving our back and abdominal muscles, rather than our arms. My friends and I manned one boat, while four strangers manned the other. (Because it was early in the season there were fewer of us and thus, fewer boats. Expect there to be five six-person boats when you go.) At the request of the other four men, who raft with KRT every year, KRT was even kind enough to bring along an inflatable kayak (IK) that we were all allowed to try. rafting-the-kern_calm-001Our guides, Scooter and Dave, were intimate with the river, its surroundings, and its history, sharing this information freely. As anticipated, the trip was both relaxing and exhilarating — totally enjoyable. At times we’d be in calm water and paddling was optional. Occasionally we’d approach rocks and our guide would instruct us on how to navigate around them. In the calmer waters, we enjoyed conversation, wild ducks, rare turtles, hawks, beavers, the famous Warblers of the Kern River Valley and glimpses of hot springs. [clearboth] Then… we’d hear the sound of rushing water and teasingly ask, “is that rapids we hear?” rafting-the-kern_019_6AOur guides had fun with this, sometimes implying danger by giving us the name of the rapid, such as Hari-Kari. Other times, they’d say, “we’re not going to tell you this one’s name until you get through it.” (Eat Rocks and Bleed, named by Chuck Richards was one of those.) Soon we’d see the white water ahead and be instructed on how to steer through, over or around the trees, rocks and drops. We’d be bouncing over rocks and waves, trying to make our paddles actually make any contact with the water — and at that moment icy cold foam would came right up into our faces. Happily, before we were even done laughing over the excitement of it, we were dry again.   rafting-the-kern_gary_010Much of the time, Lorrie and I manned our 12-foot raft alone with our guide because Gary was shooting the rapids solo in the kayak.   [clearboth] rafting-the-kern_019Lorrie and I particularly loved it when our guide, Dave, bumped us off boulders to spin us around. For that reason, Pinball was our favorite rapid. Lots of bumping and spinning! It was fun but didn’t threaten to toss us into the water. Lorrie and I did a great job of remaining in our raft, but I have to admit that while I didn’t fall out, I did fall into it as you can see here. If that sounds scary, it’s not. In fact, each time I slid down off the side of the raft and landed on the floor, I’d be laughing so hard I couldn’t get back up to paddle through. (And you want to be paddling. Your raft-mates need you to be paddling!) [clearboth] rafting-the-kern_montage [clearboth] [hr]

“Adventure Swim”

After breakfast in the morning, instead of going to the boats, the guys started up a hill. “Are you coming?” they called to me and Lorrie? “Where?” we asked. “To swim a rapid,” they replied. Yep, they were about to jump into the ice-cold morning water right before some white water and go floating through it. My response was a certain no. And a short hike later I was on the shore receiving instructions for how to not drown in the foam. The water was cold, the foam was scary, I had a strange habit of floating the wrong way, but thanks to the very nice one-time strangers, I made it through and celebrated. (Our guide escorted Lorrie, who is not one to shy away from a challenge either.) [hr]

Go Jump off a Cliff?

rafting-the-kern_jumprock_013_12ASometime on the second afternoon, we pulled over for a break. Or so I thought. Until the four guys, and Gary, started up the rock in this photo…. This was one adventure Lorrie and I passed on, but the guys all got a charge out of it! rafting-the-kern_jump [clearright][hr]

Camaraderie

The four former college-buddies in the other raft were doing this trip with KRT for the fifth year in a row and love this one weekend a year where they get to be boys again. As we traversed the water, I realized what a great experience this would be for families. It’s a perfect shared experience: relaxation, flowing water, sun, great food, and the rewarding feeling of getting past hurdles because of teamwork. I found myself thinking it’s a pity that every American doesn’t get to raft this beautiful river through this magnificent canyon. [clearboth] [hr]

Rough Camping (and cell phones)

rafting-the-kern_campingDue to Forest Service rules, there are no permanent structures along the river so all overnight rafting involves rough camping. Rough camping is tent camping without running water and electricity. With KRT it’s not terribly rough though. We brought our own tents and sleeping bags or blankets. KRT provided nice pads to sleep on. In lieu of running water, KRT provides a foot-pumped washing area so we can wash hands and face. (Swimming takes the place of a shower on this trip.) We’re talking porta potties rather than flush toilets. There’s nothing rough about the food with KRT! They’ve got an entire kitchen area set up and cook up quite a spread for dinner and breakfast. (Lunch is a terrific spread too, but isn’t part of the camping experience.) If you have any worries about hauling your tent, sleeping bag, towels, and clothing, don’t. When you arrive at the KRT offices, you park your car and hand over your stuff. The team carefully loads it into a trailer and transports it for you. They even took my iPhone for me so I’d have it at night — just so I could call some friends and tell them what they were missing. (AT&T works in the Kern area. Verizon and Sprint doesn’t.) [hr]

The Upper Kern Lickety Split

Although we’d intended for our two-day trip to be our maiden rafting voyage, Lorrie and I had a surprise initiation — in the Upper Kern as it ran fast! To learn about the area, we met with the one-and-only legendary Chuck Richards, who is commonly consdered the first to take people down the Kern in rafts. The water was running fast, and Chuck was in the mood for some excitement. So he had a talk with his pal Janet Sharp, the nice co-owner of Eagle Rafting, and after a short bus ride, we “put in” at the top of the Lickety Split run. The first time I realized we were heading directly into waves of white splashing water — and stopping to get out wasn’t an option —I thought, “what am I doing here?!” But we were with Chuck Richards — the living legend of the Kern River, the old-hat rafter who loved the thrills and excitement — and certainly knows what he is doing. “Go! Go!, Go!” Chuck commanded. Per Chuck’s instruction, we kept on “paddling though.” When our paddles could reach the water that is! Half the time we were on such a crest that our oars couldn’t reach the water, even as we perched on the edge of the raft and tried to lean. Then the wave would dip, our oars would reach below the surface and we’d feel our strokes propel us. Soon we reached calm — well calmer — water. How exhilarating! Forty mostly breathless minutes later, we stepped up on the Frandy Park beach and said “wow!” We headed to our hotel, the Kern River Inn, to shower and then to the Kern River Brewery for a much-needed burger and home-brewed beer.
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About the rafting companies we experienced

Kern River Tours KernRiverTours.com 2712 Mayfair, Lake Isabella, CA 93240 [map] With an office in Frandy Park, as well. 800-844-RAFT Eagle Rafting EagleRafting.com In Frandy Park: 11252 Kernville Rd, Kernville, CA 93238 [map] 800-375-7395 Note: The Google map of Frandy Park appears to place the park oddly. Perhaps that is due to the size of the park. [hr]

Clothing for Rafting in So Cal

You’ll want the right shorts or pants for this! I brilliantly did a run in a short polyester skirt and the hem rubbing under my legs was quite uncomfortable. I strongly suspect that denim shorts would be as uncomfortable. I strongly recomend you were quick-drying board shorts. I also recommend water shoes. Sneakers will quickly stay wet and remain wet and soggy. And a hat or sun visor or sun glasses, plus sun screen. If you’re camping overnight bring a wind breaker as well in case it gets cool. KRV Novelty Company, smack in the center of Kernville sells everything you’ll need to make your stay at the river fun. Owner Lucian Whitman gave great advice. I was able to choose from a selection of inexpensive board shorts there. Lorrie was also able to pick up rafting shoes there. KRV Novelty Company 11101 Kernville Road, Kernville CA 93238 (Across from the Kernville Inn and Frandy Park) The Kern River Tours (KRT) office in Lake Isabella, also sells these basics, as does it’s Frandy Park location.

More about White Water Rafting

If you’d like to understand white water more, here are some resources. Don’t let some of these references scare you off — unless you’re thinking of running a river without a guide.  
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