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Sea Kayaking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Peoplepack LLC

DVM Medical Director

Monterey, CA

Monterey offers stunning ocean views, a mild year-round climate, incredible restaurants, world-famous golf courses, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and easy access to Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur ...

CommonSpirit Health

Primary Care Physician

Redding, CA

$275K - $300K/yr

... sea of rural and offering the best of both. Located on the I-5 corridor midway between Sacramento and the Oregon border, Redding has the amenities of a city, but with opportunities for kayaking ...

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All JobsSea Kayaking JobsSea Kayaking Jobs in California

Sea Kayaking information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$47.7K

$60.7K

How much do sea kayaking jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for sea kayaking in California is $47,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,900.00 and $48,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sea kayaking?

Sea kayaking is a water sport that involves paddling a specialized kayak on open waters, such as oceans, bays, or large lakes. Sea kayaks are typically longer and more robust than recreational kayaks, designed to handle waves, currents, and longer journeys. Sea kayaking can be done for recreation, touring, exploration, or even multi-day expeditions. It offers opportunities to experience marine wildlife, coastal landscapes, and adventure while requiring knowledge of navigation and safety practices.

What are some common challenges faced by sea kayaking guides during group excursions, and how are they managed?

Sea kayaking guides often encounter challenges such as changing weather conditions, varying skill levels among participants, and ensuring group safety on open water. To manage these, guides must closely monitor weather forecasts, adapt routes as needed, and provide clear instructions and support to less experienced paddlers. Effective communication, risk assessment, and teamwork are essential to keeping the group together and responding quickly to any emergencies that may arise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sea kayaking guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sea Kayaking Guide, you need strong paddling skills, water safety knowledge, and typically certifications such as ACA or BCU instructor qualifications. Familiarity with navigation tools, rescue equipment, and first aid/CPR certification is essential for managing group safety on the water. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides instruct participants and respond to changing conditions. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, enjoyable, and educational experiences for clients in variable and potentially hazardous environments.

What is the difference between Sea Kayaking vs Marine Guide?

AspectSea KayakingMarine Guide
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, paddling certificationsCPR, First Aid, marine-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOpen water, coastal areas, lakesMarine parks, coastal tours, boat excursions
Employer & IndustryOutdoor recreation, adventure tourismTour operators, eco-tourism, marine conservation

Sea Kayaking involves paddling small boats in open water, focusing on paddling skills and safety. Marine Guides lead tours, provide educational info, and ensure safety in marine environments. While both roles require safety certifications and outdoor skills, Marine Guides often have additional knowledge of marine ecosystems and customer service. The roles complement each other in the outdoor adventure industry, with Sea Kayaking serving as a core activity for Marine Guides.

What are popular job titles related to Sea Kayaking jobs in California?

For Sea Kayaking jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sea Kayaking jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sea Kayaking jobs in California are:

Sea Kayaking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sea Kayaking job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,662 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Part-time Outdoor Programs Instructor

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Provides instruction, leadership and assistance while acting as a guide on non-credited outdoor recreational activities that includes camping, hiking, backpacking, sea kayaking and stand up paddle boarding to primarily UCSF students and staff as well as the general public with participants of all ages. Demonstrate excellent outdoor program customer service skills, attend staff meetings and in-house training as required. Annually, contribute to the assessment of the program. Remain current in both first aid and outdoor activity skills prescribed by supervisor. Behave in a professional manner, work as a team player and adhere to program policies. Note: This is a limited position and ends 1 year from date of hire, with potential to renew annually.
Required Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of program activity practices and procedures.
  • Verbal and written communication skills in the English language, active listening, dynamic flexibility, critical thinking, multi-task and time management skills.
  • Ability to exercise independent sound judgment and employ reasoning skills.
  • Client service minded, entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking skills.
  • Ability to perform physically challenging work in the outdoors and in all weather conditions.
  • Commitment to continued learning about outdoor environments and a desire to teach and interpret the outdoor environment.
  • A willingness to be coached and openness to feedback.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications
  • One year experience in working with people in a leadership environment.
  • Basic skills in computer programs relevant to job duties.
  • Knowledge of campus policies and procedures.
  • Strong swimmer (when applicable for programming).

Qualifications
License/Certification
  • Valid and current driver's license.
  • Current CPR and Standard First Aid or the ability to acquire within 1 month of hiring

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