Overlooking the waterfront in Old Town Eureka, the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center (HBAC) is one of the easiest and most exciting ways to get out on the water this summer. With a friendly, knowledgeable staff and a wide range of rental options, HBAC makes exploring Humboldt’s myriad waterways accessible for adventurers of all skill and experience levels.
The Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center is operated by Cal Poly Humboldt as part of its Outdoor Adventures Program, and is dedicated to getting students, community members and visitors on the water safely and confidently. Home to both Cal Poly Humboldt’s men’s and women’s nationally ranked crew teams, the HBAC is a hub for all things watersports. Aquatic gear — such as canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards — can be picked up on a drop-in basis any time the center is open. Wetsuits, helmets and booties are among the a la carte items to choose from to round out your adventure. Didn’t pack your sailboat? No problem. For those with sailing experience, sailboat rentals and boat launch are available on site.
The rental process itself is refreshingly simple. Walk-in rentals are available Thursday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it easy to fit a paddle into a long weekend or spontaneous day trip. Just stop by during open hours, check in with staff and get set up with your gear. Prices are laid out plainly on the HBAC website, with discounts for CPH students. All equipment rentals include lifejackets (or “personal floatation devices,” as the outdoorsy types know them). With a warehouse full of gear, HBAC can also typically accommodate a large group on the fly.
Humboldt Bay itself is an excellent setting for all skill levels. Its protected waters make it a great place for beginners to learn the ropes without feeling overwhelmed, and there’s still plenty to see. Woodley Island Marina and wetlands, the historic Old Town Waterfront and more close to the launch area. For more experienced paddlers and boaters, the vast Humboldt Bay and beyond are your oyster. Plus, changing conditions keep things interesting.
If another scenic Humboldt location floats your boat, you’re not limited to the immediate launch area. Rented gear can be used in other appropriate waterways throughout the county, giving you the option to explore the multitude of scenic areas Humboldt has to offer. Staff can help you get intel on other great places to kayak, canoe, paddleboard and more. Gear and equipment are rentable by the weekend or week, if you are planning an extended excursion.
Not quite sure what mode of transportation to choose? Helpful staff can lend a hand. The team at HBAC takes the time to help match you with the right equipment based on your experience level, goals and the day’s conditions. They’ll walk you through the basics, answer questions, and help assess whether your intended location and plan are a good fit. This extra layer of support makes a big difference — especially in a place like Humboldt Bay, where tides and weather can shift quickly. For those who like a bit more structure, HBAC also offers drop-in kayak tours on Saturdays and Sundays. These guided outings are a great way to explore the bay with added insight and a bit of local storytelling along the way. If your excursion has the youth in your life excited about spending more time on the water, be sure to inquire about week-long summer camps where the kiddos can get an in-depth experience with kayaking, paddleboarding and more. Recreational and educational opportunities for big kids (adults) are also available throughout the year. Drop by the front desk or check the HBAC website for more information about rentable equipment, safety classes, guided tours, summer camps and more.
Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center
921 Waterfront Drive, Eureka
(707) 443-4222
humboldt.edu/campus-recreation/outdoor-adventures/hbac
This article appears in Humboldt Insider Spring/Summer 2026.