Join Gary Golding, the barefoot survivalist from "Naked and Afraid," for guided ocean adventures along the Southern California coast. Kayak through kelp forests, snorkel with sea lions, or catch your first wave with an expert who knows these waters intimately."Gary's knowledge of the local marine life is encyclopedic — he'll spot a leopard shark before you even know it's there. The snorkeling trips feel like swimming through an aquarium, except everything is wild and moving." Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to level up your ocean skills, the small group sizes mean personal attention and zero pressure. Gary's teaching style is patient, encouraging, and occasionally involves stories that make you grateful you're not actually surviving in the wilderness. The gear is quality, the locations are stunning, and you might just see dolphins cruising past your kayak. Bring a waterproof camera if you have one, but Gary usually captures the good moments anyway. "I came in nervous about open water and left feeling confident. Gary has a way of making the ocean feel accessible rather than intimidating." Sessions run mornings when the water is calmest and marine life most active. Reservations required — these fill up fast, especially weekend slots. "Book the full-day package if you can. The progression from kayaking to snorkeling to an afternoon surf session makes for an unforgettable day." Wet suits provided, but bring your own if you prefer. Parking is easy at the meetup spot in Redondo Beach. "Don't skip the pre-trip briefing. Gary's safety talk is thorough but entertaining, and you'll learn things that make the actual adventure more enjoyable." Kids over 10 welcome on most trips, though parents should gauge their comfort with open water. "My teenagers actually put down their phones for three hours. That's worth the price alone." Tips appreciated but not expected — Gary seems genuinely stoked when people have a good time. "He's not doing this for the money. You can tell he just loves sharing the ocean with people." Rain rarely cancels; only significant swell or visibility issues will reschedule. Check conditions the morning of if you're unsure. "The 'secret spot' he takes experienced groups to is incredible. Worth coming back for the advanced session just to see it." No experience necessary for any activity, though basic swimming ability is required. "I couldn't swim well and Gary worked with me the whole time. Never felt unsafe." Group sizes max out at six people, which keeps things intimate and flexible. "We ended up staying an extra hour because the dolphins showed up. Gary doesn't watch the clock when the ocean delivers." Overall: a genuinely unique way to experience the Southern California coast with a guide who combines expertise with infectious enthusiasm. "Best outdoor activity I've done in LA. Gary's the real deal.""description_markdown":"Join Gary Golding, the barefoot survivalist from "Naked and Afraid," for guided ocean adventures along the Southern California coast. Kayak through kelp forests, snorkel with sea lions, or catch your first wave with an expert who knows these waters intimately.

Gary's knowledge of the local marine life is encyclopedic — he'll spot a leopard shark before you even know it's there. The snorkeling trips feel like swimming through an aquarium, except everything is wild and moving.

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to level up your ocean skills, the small group sizes mean personal attention and zero pressure. Gary's teaching style is patient, encouraging, and occasionally involves stories that make you grateful you're not actually surviving in the wilderness.

The gear is quality, the locations are stunning, and you might just see dolphins cruising past your kayak. Bring a waterproof camera if you have one, but Gary usually captures the good moments anyway.

Morning sessions when the water is calmest and marine life most active. Reservations required — these fill up fast, especially weekend slots. Wet suits provided. Kids over 10 welcome on most trips. Group sizes max out at six people.