Moon Glow

Salty silence surrounds you as you paddle across the gently rocking waves into the moonlit waters of Tomales Bay. It's all part of the experience on Point Reyes Outdoors' "Sunset to Starlight Paddle." On this four-hour excursion, you paddle by the bay's nucleus, Hog Island, where eucalyptus and conifer trees scent the air and pelicans, loons, and double-crested cormorants feast. As the sun melts into the Pacific, Tule elk graze on the golden hills of Tomales Point and big brown jellyfish, small sharks, and rays move about beneath your kayak. Halfway into the evening, nose up to shore and chow down on fresh organic strawberries, homemade brownies, cookies, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. On the paddle back, savor the spectacular bioluminescence—with every stroke, plankton glow on the surface, leaving a trail of stardust in your wake.

TIP: Stay overnight in Point Reyes in a contemporary Tree House. Those looking for simple and inexpensive accommodations should check out Motel Inverness, with clean rooms, bay views, and a warm lobby with a fireplace and pool table.

Sunset to Starlight paddles happen each Saturday and Sunday night. Exact rendezvous times and places change from month to month. Point Reyes Outdoors (415-663-8192) will provide you with detailed directions and times when you book. The cost is $89 per person.