Launching from Lakeville Landing Marina, May 2026

We had a lovely 2-hour paddle on the Petaluma River, launching from the Lakeville Landing Marina, and heading towards Petaluma on our Eddyline kayaks. The river is wide there and deep enough, even though it was nearly low tide. The highlight was sighting a bald eagle being harassed by another bird. The eagle settled on a log and gave us the opportunity to snap a few photos. We enjoyed calm water with little wind during our morning trip. Mini-trips like this always raise the question, “why don’t we do this more often.”

Lakeville Landing Marina

The landing is between the mouth of the Petaluma River and the City of Petaluma, about 4 miles southeast of Petaluma. There have been some amenities added to the marina, formerly named Gilardi’s Lakeville Marina and best known to locals as the launch at the old Papa’s Taverna. What we most appreciated was the clean bathroom and the hose for washing off our boats. You can launch from the cement drive going into the river or use the rickety pier. At low tide, the driveway was mucky. Watch your step, whichever option you choose. They charge $3 cash per boat (no credit card). There’s even a sauna and bathhouse, called Sundrop. Community sessions there give shared access to a sauna, cold plunge, outdoor shower, and lounge areas. There’s a building going up. Maybe an expansion for Sundrop. A restaurant would be nice.