For a hands-on, guided experience, head to Terranea Resort. Located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the oceanfront property is a wellness escape for luxury travelers. It’s also an excellent place to go kayaking, as it’s surrounded by picturesque cliffsides, sea life — including migrating whales and sea lions — and less crowded waters than its neighboring city Redondo Beach. You can choose from a range of excursion times, but it can get windy here, so go in the morning if you want a smoother paddle. (I went at 10 a.m.)When you book through the hotel — don’t worry, you don’t need to be a guest — friendly and experienced instructors will take you on a 1.5-hour ride along the coastline, through kelp beds and to rocky shorelines where you’ll spot small fish and marine plants. You’ll get a glimpse of the Point Vicente Lighthouse, Catalina Island in the distance and leisurely hikers strolling along the coastal pathways. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and migrating whales: Gray whales migrate here from December to May, and humpback and blue whales migrate from June to September.

Valet at the resort lobby for $60 or park in the day golf parking lot for $20. Refuel post-kayaking with lunch at the resort restaurant, Nelson’s, for complimentary parking validation. If you’re got the time and are up for a splurge, treat yourself to a day pass at the spa too. For $120, you’ll get access to a steam room, cold plunge, sauna, jacuzzi and poolside food and beverage service. It’s the ultimate exercise recovery experience.

Pricing: Ocean kayaking at Terranea costs $150 per person for a 1.5-hour guided tour. Water shoes, helmets, life vests and a safety demonstration are all included. You can also opt for a three-hour guided kayak tidepool adventure for $185 per person or a three-hour guided kayak fishing adventure for $225 per person (fishing license required).