Welcome to The Stanford Inn’s ~ Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too!

Boat & Bike Rentals and Guided Tours are available for Stanford Inn guests and the general public.

Immerse yourself in the most exquisite natural experience ever!

The Stanford Inn & Resort, located on the spectacular Mendocino, California, is known for its unique blend of hospitality, sustainability, and natural beauty. Since 1980, Joan and Jeff Stanford, along with their staff, have been creating a magical and memorable stay for guests from around the globe.

Catch A Canoe & Bicycles Too was an early addition to the many diverse amenities and activities offer by Stanford Inn & Resort. Outriggers and other watercraft are available for Inn guests as well as the general public.  

Explore this website to learn about Catch A Canoe, Big River, and the rich history of the Mendocino area. 

big river mendocino dock with boats

Rental Boats

bicycle mendocino and big river start at the stanford inn where bicycles are complimentary for guests

Rental Bikes

mendocino big river guided tours

Guided Tours

mendocino big river wildlife

Wildlife

Catch A Canoe & Bicycles, Too! Mendocino Big River at the Stanford Inn by the Sea

About

Stanford Inn & Resort proudly presents Catch A Canoe & Bicycles Too! Nestled in a small cove on Big River Estuary, just before it flows into Mendocino Bay, is the adventure destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1982, Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too offers ultra stable redwood outriggers, kayaks, catamaran canoes and traditional canoes. We cater to families, pets and their owners, singles, couples and groups. 

Bicycle rentals are complimentary for Stanford Inn guests and are available as rentals for anyone who wants to explore beautiful Big River and beyond. We offer maps and insight into the history and geography of Big River and the Mendocino region.

We strongly suggest reservations, however drop-ins accepted if equipment is available.

Boat Reservations
Bike Reservations
Private Guided Estuary Tours
Inn Guests: Reserve boats & bikes

Video created by Rick Hemmings, Catch A Canoe & Bicycles Too.

Big River Estuary, the second longest in California, remains undeveloped throughout it’s 8.3 mile length. In 2002, the adjacent lands were purchased through a massive local fund raising effort and are now a part of the Mendocino Headlands State Park. A gentle rolling bike trail follows Big River as it meanders eastward into a secluded redwood canyon where several trails interconnect.

Big River is a tidal estuary and a gentle class 1 waterway. Harbor seals, playful river otters and a variety of birds can be seen on your journey.

Paddle a single or double kayak, or perhaps try a stand up paddle-board. Guided Tours aboard the 9 person Solar Wind Tribrid are offered daily during the summer months and feature wind and solar electric power for effortless cruising.

The stars of the show at the Stanford Inn’s Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too are the locally handcrafted redwood outrigger canoes. Ultra stable, yet narrow and efficient, each one has an intuitive foot controlled rudder for ease of steering. Designed in house, and constructed by local artisan Bob Cummings from re-purposed redwood barns, these unique boats are only available here in Mendocino. Several configurations are available which can accommodate families and friends from 2 to 7 persons. The pet friendly Canine series are the only canoes worldwide that are designed for both humans and dogs.

Gliding silently along Big River Canyon in a beautiful redwood outrigger is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and can be the highlight of your vacation in Mendocino.