A River Runs Through It

Give new meaning to downtown cruising. The Petaluma River cuts right through town, floating you the opportunity to nose right up to an afternoon lunch break on a do-it-yourself kayak trip. Clavey Paddlesports can set you up. While October is one of the best times to be on the river because winds are low, the tide determines the best time and place to start, so be sure to check with Clavey. (You can also arrange to have Clavey shuttle your kayaks to your starting point and retrieve them when you’re done.) For a solid two-hour tour (each way) start at Papa’s Taverna, a Greek restaurant equipped with a loading dock a few miles outside of town. Most days, there’s a $2 charge to dock. The Petaluma River is a tidal slew that stretches along farmlands, marshes, and industrial landscape, so the water can be murky (OK, mucky) in spots. Begin by paddling northwest past Shollenberger Park. When you see the Sheraton Hotel at the Petaluma Marina, veer left to continue toward downtown. Make sure to stay left at the next fork as well. Once downtown, dock beneath the footbridge and step out to explore the historic Victorians on the riverfront and the city center. Before heading back, fill up with a microbrew and some farm-fresh cuisine at Dempsey’s, a local waterfront favorite. Pair the Pub Appetizer—a sampling of olives, flatbreads, and cured meats—with an award-winning Petaluma Strong Ale, a punch (7.1% alcohol) of unfiltered, malty goodness. Just be sure to designate a paddler for the return trip.

Clavey Paddlesports is located at 409 Petaluma Blvd. South, 800-832-4226. For a single kayak, Clavey charges $60/day or $75/weekend, with a $10 charge for shuttle service. Cash and check only with credit card deposit. Open from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Monday–Friday and 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Saturdays.