Paul,
Welcome to the boards
Ed hit the strong points of HH and kayaks and there are plenty of waterways to cruise in. If you want to try Newport/Balboa, launching right behind Paddle Power Kayaks on 15th street is a very easy launch and a small mothers beach arrangement. Parking is by meters, but there are half a dozen free stalls right at the end of the street in front of the launch you may use if you get there early enough. It is a short sandy beach, and Paddle Power uses it for their rentals and lessons. Hope this helps,
PerryC.
