McCovey Cove Kayak Rentals

We launch from our Mission Creek Boathouse location, which is a calm, protected paddle straight into Mission Creek and out to McCovey Cove.

We strongly prefer that you make an advanced reservation. We cannot ensure availability for walk-ins. Don’t risk it!

Yes — we run Giants home game McCovey Cove rentals for every home game on the schedule, with availability based on weather and safe operating conditions.

First: we strongly recommend public transit

Mission Bay parking is limited, signage-heavy, and gets extra chaotic around event traffic. If you can avoid driving, do it.

SF Muni: N-Judah, T-Line, plus bus lines 15, 30, 45, and 55 all have stops in the vicinity of Mission Creek Park. 

Caltrain: Get off at 4th & King, then walk south toward Mission Creek via the 4th Street Bridge (Mission Bay Parks explicitly recommends this approach). 

If you do drive, know this

There is no dedicated “Mission Creek Boathouse” public lot, and “on-site parking not available” is commonly listed for Mission Creek Park. 

Street parking exists, but it’s limited, especially on game days, and competitive—arrive early.

Best “close” paid parking options (walkable)

These are the most practical garages within a short walk of 401 Berry:

• China Basin Garage (Propark) — 185 Berry St (very close; entrance off 3rd St). 

• UCSF 3rd Street Garage — 1650 3rd St. 

• UCSF Community Center Garage — 1625 Owens St. 

• UCSF Owens Street Garage — 1835 Owens St. 

• UCSF Illinois Street Garage — 590 Illinois St. 

• Luma Hotel Garage (Valet) — 100 Channel St (often listed as the closest reservable option for Mission Creek Park). 

Drop-off tip (saves time)

If you’re ridesharing or getting dropped off, aim for Mission Creek Park on Berry St and walk in from there—Mission Bay Parks notes the park is accessed from Berry St or Channel St between 4th and 5th.

Most paddlers reach McCovey Cove in about 10-15 minutes, depending on your pace, wind, and tide.

No. If you’re comfortable outdoors and can follow instructions, you’re good. We’ll get you set up with a quick onshore briefing and route guidance before you launch.

We offer single and tandem sit-on-top kayaks. Tandems are popular for game days because they’re stable and make the paddle easy and social. All of our kayaks are very stable and easy to paddle.

Most people do. You can paddle in and settle into a spot, or explore the cove and nearby waterfront during breaks. We’ll confirm your rental window when you book.

Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before your launch time for check-in, gear fitting, and the briefing. On game days, earlier is better.

Dress for the forecast (layers are your friend), plus:

• Water bottle

• Sunglasses + sun protection

• A phone tether or dry bag (recommended)

• A light snack if you want it during the game

We operate with a focus on safety, and we’ll only run when conditions are appropriate. You’ll get a route briefing, boundaries, and on-water expectations before you launch.

If conditions aren’t safe, we’ll work with you on the best option — reschedule, or offer a credit. (We’d rather disappoint you on land than stress you on the water.)

Light snacks and non-glass drinks are fine. Please skip glass containers and anything that could blow away or end up in the water.

Yes, as long as they are at least 7 years old and with an adult — and we’ll help you choose the right boat/setup. For solo kayaks, kids must be 13 or older. For game days, tandems are usually the easiest option for families.

Absolutely. If you’re coming with a group, book early and consider tandems — and if it’s a bigger crew, reach out so we can help coordinate.