Never kayaked before. Is it absolutely necessary to take kayak lessons for a beginner?

I've never kayaked before, but would love it. I have noticed that rents are much cheaper to go kayaking for a beginner. is absolutely necessary for me to go kayaking for beginners for the first time? Will I be able find out how to use a kayak without taking a lesson? I understand the need if water is not very quiet, but I think the water in the bay of San Francisco should be acceptable. I would like your opinion. thanks!

Poptarts, you do not know what you do not know. SF Bay is an extremely dangerous place to do this. I kayaked for decades, and would not take into consideration. There are serious and strong currents, you can not paddle against it, and you need to know about it. In addition, beginners very Often the tip of his kayak over, and you have to know how to get back in ….. It is not easy, If you do not know how. Do not be silly and do something you know nothing, and end in the newspaper.

Kayaking & Canoeing for Beginners : Tips on Getting in a Kayak in Water