I’d hear about Pt. Reyes Adventure Co and their spectacular bioluminescence tours, but it wasn’t until little Zorrito caught my eye (and heart!) that melted me into a big puddle on the floor, and made their story that much sweeter.
Liz & Dallas with little Zorrito.
Paddle along to learn what the duo is up to (and yes, they offer dog-friendly kayak rental options). Plus, a fresh round of happenings this Feb/March weekend.
Enjoy!
Kim Neumann
FEATURE STORY
Q&A with Point Reyes Adventure Co founders Liz Wilhelm & Dallas Smith
“People come for the adventure, but they leave with a deeper connection to this place.”
What’s the story behind your business?
After 15 years of guiding full-time in Point Reyes, we felt called to create something more personal and stewardship-driven. We founded Point Reyes Adventure Co. to offer small-group kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and backpacking rentals and tours, as well as camping gear rentals, and special events rooted in deep local knowledge and community connection.
In 2025, we were honored to be voted Best Tours in Marin by the readers of the Pacific Sun — a meaningful affirmation that people value thoughtful, locally owned and led outdoor experiences.
What’s something most people don’t know about what you do?
In addition to guiding adventures on the water and trail, we’ve hosted a local radio show for nearly six years. The West Marin Naturalist Hour airs every other Monday from 9–10am on KWMR, where we interview scientists, conservationists, artists, and local changemakers. It’s one of the ways we stay connected to the ecology and community we work in.
What’s one thing that sets you apart from others in your field?
We are a small, owner-operated company — we guide most of the tours ourselves, clean the gear, pack the camping rentals, answer the phones, and organize our events. When you book a kayak, SUP, backpacking trip, or gear rental with us, you’re working directly with the owners.
We also occasionally collaborate with a small group of established guide friends — experienced, thoughtful professionals who share our values and love of place.
Who or what inspires your work right now?
Bioluminescence continues to inspire us — the awe it sparks and the reminder that nature still holds mystery. We’re also inspired by creating safe, meaningful access to outdoor experiences for more people — whether that’s through guided trips, student-led kayak tours, or making camping more approachable with quality gear rentals.
What do you most want people to feel when they experience your service?
Capable. Calm. Connected. Whether someone joins us for a kayak tour, a SUP outing, a backpacking trip, or a special event, we want them to feel both grounded and inspired — like they truly experienced West Marin, not just visited it.
What’s your dream scenario for your business — or the impact you’d love to make in Marin?
To help shape recreation in a way that supports conservation, reduces impact, and expands responsible access. We want to continue uplifting local businesses through our tours, mentoring the next generation through student-led experiences, and creating outdoor opportunities that make Marin stronger and more connected.
Any upcoming specials, seasonal offerings, or community events to highlight?
Bioluminescence kayak tours available two weeks out of every month
Sick Day Tours — midweek kayak and SUP adventures designed to help people break from the 9–5
Tuesday 2-Hour Oyster Bed Paddle on Tomales Bay, with the option to pair it with Hog Island’s Whole Hog experience or enjoy oysters independently afterward
Student-led kayak tours supporting youth engagement and leadership
Guided backpacking trips in Point Reyes
Camping gear rentals for self-guided adventures
Private custom tours and special events for celebrations, retreats, and community gatherings
We love creating unique experiences and are always excited to collaborate.
How can locals best support your business?
Book a tour, rent gear for your next camping trip, bring visiting friends and family, leave a review, share our name, or purchase a gift certificate for someone you love. Word of mouth truly makes a difference for small, owner-operated businesses like ours.
Stay in touch
Follow Point Reyes Adventure Co on Instagram and Facebook and check out the latest happenings on their calendar.
5 FUN THINGS TO DO IN MARIN
1. Paddle on the Bay with Pt. Reyes Adventure Co – Tomales Bay
This might be the last opportunity to paddle Drakes Estero — which closes from March 1st through the end of June for… wait for it…. harbor seal pupping season!!! But don’t fret, Tomales Bay is offered year-round.
2. Get your Sting fix at Mac’s – Fairfax
Roxanne. Message in a Bottle. Every Breath You Take. Walking on the Moon. Don’t Stand So Close to Me. All the classics from Sting & The Police, right here in Fairfax.
3. Learn Piano (FREE intro session) – San Rafael
Ever wanted to learn piano? Well, you’re in luck because this Saturday at 3pm, teacher Karen Hensley offers a free introductory piano session. She likes to be extra clear that there is zero pressure and NO obligation to sign up for lessons. Just RSVP to [email protected] or call 415-927-2648.
4. Date Night: Dance Party at Club Corner – Mill Valley
The hottest club scene in Marin is happening Saturday at 9:30pm — maybe get to Corner Bar early for bites & cocktail “essentials” (like the Orange Dreamsicle)?
5. Make gift-worthy pottery at Marin Pottery – Novato
Local realtor Lisa Kim Jones shares, “Just started taking pottery classes about 8 weeks ago at Marin Pottery. What a wonderful experience with patient teachers and a great location in downtown Novato.” Look at these pieces — can you believe she’s “new to the wheel”? (I’ll try to get these beautiful images out of my head while my lumpy, wobbly clayball takes on a unique shape of its own.) Check out the adult classes and weekly drop-ins:
See more events here.
✍️ Got a story to share? Reach out!
Thanks for reading,
Kim
Kim Neumann, Publisher
