Questions about paddling around North Island (San Diego)

[Larry2c]

A friend I paddle with has asked me to go with him on a paddle around North Island with him. We would launch into the ocean from Stan's Beach - beside the condo towers in Coronado. From there we'd go North around the North end of the Naval base and then along the West side of San Diego bay, under the Coronado bridge and finally pull out at park on Glorietta Bay.

So here's my questions\concerns - first, I have only done an ocean paddle once - usually we paddle in San Diego or Mission Bay. Ocean paddling - for me at least - is a bit more physically challenging. Also, it looks like we'd have to paddle a good ways West to get past the end of the Zuniga jetty. From past experience in a boat, the water can be pretty crazy around that jetty - I don't want to do any rock climbing! Last but not least, although I've been paddling for 8+ years, my normal trips are 4 to 6 miles and on relatively flat water. How far would this loop be and has anyone on this forum made this loop?

I don't want to disappoint my friend but I also don't want to have to call for a tow!
Thanks

[Badger]

Google Distance measures the trip at about 10.5 miles. A lot depends on the weather, your ability, and the board you are paddling. Expect it to take at least four or five hours. Longer if you encounter headwinds and/or currents.

[Larry2c]

Thanks Badger - I haven't used Google Distance, I'll have to give that a try. We planned on trying to hit the tide coming in but who knows what the wind will be doing!

[sflinux]

I hope you wear a leash & pfd, and bring lots of water. 
I visited SD beaches this summer and the water at Coronado Dog Beach was by far the coldest.  There is some deep water out there.
I would listen to your gut and try to minimize your risk.
If it was me, I would have your friends trip be the goal to work up to.
But I would break it down into smaller trips first.
1) If you are unsure about ocean paddling, I would launch from Dog beach and paddle to Zuniga jetty to check it out.
That side of the island is the Navy beach so that entire section is a black hole, no exit.
2) If the Zuniga jetty looks doable, then how about launching from Dog Beach and looping the Navy base end exiting around the other size 1st / D Ave.
3) Then I would launch from 1st st / D ave and exit at Glorietta Bay.
Gauge how you feel from each and decide if you have what it takes to make the entire journey in one shot.

[Larry2c]

Thanks sflinus - I do use a leash and a PFD. I like the idea of taking it in steps - I'll propose that to my paddle partner!