Bavarian Brunch Paddle

Paddle to a Beer Garden in Oakland

Set right on the Oakland Estuary, Brotzeit Lokal Boathaus & Biergarten is what it sounds like: a Bavarian restaurant and boathouse, with an impressively stocked rotation of craft German beers, amazing brunch, and a fabulous waterfront setting. Be the envy of Brotzeit’s patrons by making a grand entrance, gliding up in style—on a kayak! Rent from California Canoe and Kayak in Jack London Square (due to California Canoe and Kayak's insurance policy, beer drinkers cannot also be kayakers. But those that just want brunch are A-okay). The 1.5-mile paddle along the estuary takes about 40 minutes as you coast along peaceful waters past houseboats, US Coast Guard vessels, and sailboats, with the city framed by massive industrial cranes.

Dock your kayak at the “Visitor Parking” sign beneath Brotzeit’s waving Bavarian flags and take a food-and-beverage break. Pair a classic Zwei Eier (two eggs with housemade sausage) with a Köstritzer Pale Ale and relax on the outdoor patio. Then kayak back the way you came for a 3-mile out-and-back paddle, or continue onward around Coast Guard Island for a 5-mile loop. Prost!

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California Canoe and Kayak is located at 409 Water St. in Jack London Square. Single kayak and SUP rentals $25/hr; double kayak rentals $40/hr. Dog-friendly! Brotzeit Biergarten is located at 1000 Embarcadero. Brunch offered Saturday and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The beer garden patio is dog-friendly!

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