Kayaking Near Los Angeles

Best National Parks for Kayaking Near Los Angeles, CA

National parks near Los Angeles, CA ranked by kayaking quality, with drive times and distances.

Updated

Day Trip (Under 2.5 hours)

Yellow flowers in foreground extending out along a rocky coastline to a natural arch.

Channel Islands

CA

ComfortableHidden Gem

124 mi -- about 2.3 hr drive

Weekend Getaway (2.5 to 5 hours)

A steep granite slope leads from forest to a bare alpine landscape

Sequoia & Kings Canyons

CA

Comfortable

240 mi -- about 4.4 hr drive

Extended Drive (5+ hours)

Upper Yosemite Fall and Merced River in spring

Yosemite

CA

Comfortable

354 mi -- about 6.4 hr drive