Pier Review

If Hollywood ever tries its hand at Escape from San Francisco, we hope there are kayaks involved. There just aren’t enough kayaks in action films, you know? We imagine the little boats riding a tsunami, hurtling toward the bad guys who have taken Coit Tower hostage, somehow managing to defuse a bomb with their mad paddling skills. Don’t wait for the film, though: The start of fall is the perfect time to ditch the suit, don a life jacket, and escape on a weekday adventure. City Kayak’s Downtown San Francisco Tour gives you a look at the skyscrapers from a whole new angle: sea level. Using comfy performance touring kayaks, the two-hour route wiggles underneath the Bay Bridge, down Mission Creek, or out to Pier 39. You’ll come face to face with the bay’s animal life (sea lions, cormorants) and its public sculpture (“Cupid’s Bow”). Don’t worry if you’re a complete novice; your guide will give you a quick lesson. Kurt Russell-style eye patch not included.
Starts: Oct. 7. Daily, 10 a.m., 2008