Water Activities

It is each boater’s responsibility to boat responsibly, remain aware and vigilant to their surroundings and understand and follow all applicable boating rules and regulations.  Following is a partial list of some of the most important things to remember while enjoying time on the lagoon, and further resource links are provided at the bottom of the page.

• Gas or diesel powered boating is not allowed on the Foster City lagoon. Boats must be powered only by sail, electric battery, or person power.
• The speed limit for all vessels is 5 miles per hour.
• It is illegal to boat under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Boats are encouraged at Foster City events, like the Community Summer Concerts, but boaters are reminded to watch for and keep a safe distance from swimmers and other boats.
• Sailboats over eight feet long or boats/vessels with a motor (no matter the size), must be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
• Under California law, every child under 13 years of age on a moving recreational vessel must wear a life jacket. All boaters are encouraged to wear flotation devices.
• Boaters are encouraged to take a safety course and obtain a California Boaters Card.
• Be aware of your boat’s specifications.  Clearance under the bridges is 22 feet at the center for Foster City Bridge, Shell Bridge and Bicentennial Bridge. Rainbow Bridge clears at 15 feet at the center. The average depth of the lagoon is approximately six feet (6').  The level is raised in the summer and lowered in the winter to accommodate anticipated storm water.
• Foster City has two boat ramps at Boat Park (Bounty Drive) and Leo Ryan Park (670 Shell Blvd). Small boats may be launched from any location.

• Swimming is allowed in all areas of the Foster City lagoon.
• Swimmers are responsible to ensure that they are visible to boaters and other lagoon users.  Swimmers are encouraged to swim during daylight hours and use high visibility swim buoys and/or wear high visibility swim caps.  Swim buoys can be borrowed at no cost at the Leo Ryan Park Boathouse for short-term use.
• Swimmers are responsible to remain aware of their surroundings and to maintain a distance from boats where possible. 
• The County Health Department tests the water regularly especially near the beaches. Notices are posted when contamination causing a possible health risk is detected and information can also be found on the San Mateo County Health Department website.

• Non-commercial fishing is allowed in Foster City, and a state fishing license is required. The Foster City Lagoon contains Halibut and a large population of bait-fish.

Love the water but don’t own a boat?  Foster City’s concessions are in operation to provide water access to all.

• California Windsurfing offers beginning windsurfing lessons and rents windsurf boards, peddle boats, kayaks and standup paddle boards at the Leo Ryan Park boathouse.
• Edgewater Marine offers rental, authorized sales (new and pre-owned), and maintenance service for Duffy Electric Boats.
• The Kite School and Wind Over Water offer kiteboard lessons, equipment rental and demonstrations at Baywinds Park.