Ballona Creek is a tidal creek in Los Angeles, California, offering a flatwater paddling route that combines urban scenery with natural wetlands. The primary launch point for paddlers is the old boat ramp located next to the Pacific Avenue bridge in Playa Del Rey. This access point features a boat ramp, and amenities include paid parking, free parking, and year-round or seasonal bathrooms. From this launch, a common route involves paddling approximately 2.75 miles upstream to the end of the soft-bottom estuary under the Centinela Avenue bridge, making for a 5.5-mile round trip. The creek ultimately empties into Santa Monica Bay at Marina del Rey, where paddlers can access the open ocean past a breakwater. Tidal planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip. Paddling upstream is best done on a rising tide, which aids progress and provides sufficient water depth to avoid shallow hazards. The mouth of the creek where it meets the bay is exposed to westerly swells, which can generate sizeable waves, creating a potential surf zone that requires caution, especially for beginners. The environment along the creek offers a mix of city views, quiet green spaces, and wildflowers, passing through areas of the historic Ballona wetlands. Wildlife sightings may include osprey, cormorants, herons, and ducks. The water offers a tranquil ambiance suitable for urban exploration. The calm, controlled environment of the inland creek section is often recommended for beginner paddlers, while navigating the creek mouth and ocean access requires more advanced skills due to wave conditions.