Ditch the regular tourist trail and jump in a kayak. Adventurers suit up and paddle around the bay for a bit of exploration and a duck’s eye view of the city.

Sight-seers looking for a different side of San Francisco cruise the bay in their own single or double kayaks from City Kayak. Beginners start out on a short excursion up Mission Creek or a tour to downtown San Francisco. Those with more experience (and strong arms) can wander as far out as Alcatraz. Kayakers can choose between guided or independent trips, though even solo trips are sometimes interrupted by curious seals.

For a truly unique experience, tourists and locals alike paddle over to McCovey Cove when the Giants are playing to try and catch a home-run ball. Those with more of an interest in romance than baseball should go out during the full moon and enjoy champagne and dinner on their kayaks.