Hi,
I'm new to the group and to Southern Cal kayaking and I'm looking for some information on Newport Bay. I have been putting in at the Newport Aquatic Center but I'm trying to find access closer to the mouth of the harbor and with a good beach for practicing rolling (ie, nice shallow sandy area were someone can stand next to the boat). Any places people can recommend that are open to the public?
Hopefully I'll get a chance to meet some on you on the water in the near future.
Thanks,
-Robert

Coast Guard beach is popular for heading out to the ocean
http://maps.google.co...

Some folks practice rolling and such in one of the little coves just before your reach the jetty near Corona Del Mar.

Further from the ocean, but fitting your description for a nice shallow sandy area is 18th street on the peninsula.

http://maps.google.co...

If you want some company practicing stuff or heading out to the ocean email me. I'm doing something or another on the water most weekends.

As mentioned by John, the Coast Guard beach off Bayside Drive in Corona del Mar is a popular launch. The parking can sometimes be difficult and it's a bit of a haul from the car to the water, so kayak wheels can be helpful here. This beach has nice restrooms and an outdoor shower available.

From the peninsula one can launch from the street ends, "J" and "K" streets probably being the most popular. The beach at "N" street is also a common launch site. These can provide closer access to the water, but once again parking can be difficult and there are no facilities.

China Cove and Pirates Cove on the Corona del Mar side are nice practice spots if they are not too crowded with swimmers. As we approach winter the pressure on all of these places should be backing off providing easier access for us. The bad news is that the water should also start cooling down.

Thanks for all the information. Much appreciated.