Pier 52 Boat Launch boat launch
Pier 52 Boat Launch
The boat ramp is reported to be approximately 16 feet wide, which is wide enough to accommodate most small watercraft. It is also equipped with a floating dock, making it easy for boaters to load and unload their gear.
The body of water that Pier 52 Boat Launch services is the San Francisco Bay. This is a large and complex body of water that is known for its strong currents, challenging winds, and heavy boat traffic. As a result, it is recommended that boaters have experience navigating in similar conditions before launching from this ramp.
In terms of the type of boats that are permitted on the water, there are different regulations depending on the location and the time of year. Generally speaking, the San Francisco Bay allows for a variety of watercraft, including sailboats, motorboats, and personal watercraft. However, there are certain areas that are off-limits to certain types of boats, and there are also seasonal restrictions in place to protect local wildlife.
Overall, the Pier 52 Boat Launch is a popular spot for small boaters looking to explore the San Francisco Bay. While it may not be suitable for larger vessels, it offers easy access to some of the most beautiful and challenging waterways in the region.
Plan your launch down to the hour
Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day temperature & precipitation
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
Area streamflow levels
USGS streamgauges around Pier 52 Boat Launch -- the same readings that determine whether your launch is safe and your boat is the right craft.
| Streamgauge | Discharge | View |
|---|---|---|
| Redwood C A Hwy 1 Bridge A Muir Beach Ca | 2 cfs | → |
| San Lorenzo C A San Lorenzo Ca | 12 cfs | → |
| Corte Madera C A Ross Ca | 4 cfs | → |
| San Mateo C Bl Lo Crystal Sp Res Nr San Mateo Ca | 4 cfs | → |
| Pilarcitos C Bl Stone Dam Nr Hillsborough Ca | 4 cfs | → |
| Castro Valley C A Hayward Ca | 1 cfs | → |
Plan a longer trip
The closest paddle runs, fishing spots, and other boat launches so you can extend a day on the water.
River runs
- Headwaters To Mouth
- Headwaters To Ends One Quarter Mile South Of Bear Valley Road Bridge Segment 1: Ends 1/4 Mile South Of Bear Valley Road Bridge Segment 2: Caltrans Corporation Yard At Point Reyes Staton.
- Olema Ranch Campground To Caltrans Corporation Yard At Point Reyes Station
Nearby fishing
Boating safety & etiquette
- Check the conditions before you launch
- Use the streamflow numbers, weather, and wind forecast on this page. High-cfs whitewater requires whitewater-specific craft and skill.
- Wear your life jacket
- Statistically the single biggest survival factor in a boating incident. State law often requires one per passenger.
- File a float plan
- Tell someone on shore your put-in, take-out, and expected return time. Especially for multi-day or remote trips.
- Yield at the ramp
- Prep gear in the parking lot, not on the ramp. Launch and clear quickly so others can use the lane.
- Clean, drain, dry
- Inspect, clean, drain and dry your boat between waters to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Set push alerts in the Snoflo app
Save Pier 52 Boat Launch as a favorite, set a discharge threshold or a wind/precipitation alert, and the iOS app will push the moment conditions cross.
About Pier 52 Boat Launch
Can I launch a motorboat here?
Most Snoflo-tracked launches support motorboats; check the operator for any horsepower restrictions, paddle-only zones, or seasonal closures.
How fresh is the streamflow data?
USGS streamgauges report continuously (every 15 minutes); the table on this page pulls the latest reading at page load.
Is there a fee?
Many federal and state boat launches charge a day-use fee. Check the operator's site before driving out.
What boat is right for these conditions?
Use the nearby streamflow numbers and river-run panel on this page to gauge current conditions. Wider, slower water is friendly for casual paddling and powerboats; high-cfs whitewater requires whitewater-specific craft and skill.
Can I get alerts when conditions change?
Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this launch, set a threshold (discharge, wind), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses.
Other launches near here
Snoflo-tracked boat launches within driving distance of Pier 52 Boat Launch.