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Is it safe to kayak in Monterey Bay?
Yes. Monterey Bay is a beautiful and safe place to kayak and paddle board. Join a kayaking tour and see amazing wildlife like sea lions, otters, and harbor seals. Most kayakers and tours stay close to the shoreline where it’s safest.
Where can I kayak in Monterey?
Kayak Access Points
- Pacifica State Beach.
- Gray Whale Cove State Beach.
- Montara State Beach.
- Pillar Point Harbor.
- Half Moon Bay State Beach.
What should you not do in a kayak?
Beware of off-shore winds that make it difficult to return to shore. Always follow the boating rules of the area you’re in. Never mix alcohol or drugs (prescription or non-prescription) with boating. Never exceed the weight capacity of your boat and always check your equipment for wear and tear before you paddle.
Can you Kayak Point Lobos?
Point Lobos is a protected marine reserve which promises few people and lots of hidden coves that no other small craft can access. Prior kayaking experience is required, and exposed ocean paddling is necessary.
Where can I see sea lions in Monterey?
California sea lions can be seen year round in Monterey Bay. Popular spots include docks and boats around Fisherman’s Wharf and the Coastguard jetty in Monterey as well as Point Lobos Nature Reserve and Moss Landing harbor.
Where can I launch my kayak in Elkhorn Slough?
You can launch your kayak at the Moss Landing Harbor District Launch Ramp at the North Harbor, located on Hwy 1, north of Moss Landing (near the kayak shops) or Kirby Park along Elkhorn Road, north of the Elkhorn Slough Reserve. Small watercraft can also launch in the Harbor of Moss Landing.
When should you not go kayaking?
We do not recommend going out on the water in a kayak when winds are 15 knots or more. More wind means more waves. Eyeballing the water will give you a good idea whether you should embark out.
Is sit in or sit on kayak better?
As far as recreational kayaks go, sit-on-top models are the better choice for paddling far from shore, including on the ocean. They won’t fill with water if you capsize, and they are easy to climb back onto if you fall off. Sit-inside recreational kayaks frequently have large cockpits and limited floatation.
What time of day is best to kayak?
Kayaking in the morning is usually better than in the afternoon as winds can pick up in the afternoon making kayaking more difficult. For the first half of your trip, head into the wind, if possible. That way when you’re tired later on, you can then kayak downwind and get a little boost.
Can you snorkel at Point Lobos?
The diving area is limited to Whalers and Bluefish Coves. All other areas of the Reserve are closed to diving. Snorkeling is NOT permitted at China Cove or Gibson Beach.
Can you see seals in Monterey?
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is one of the best places in the world to see seals, sea lions and sea otters. You can see them close to shore almost any time of year!
Is the Monterey Bay kayak tour worth it?
Absolutely phenomenal experience at the Monterey Bay Kayaks which is conveniently located very close to downtown Monterey and fisherman’s wharf! We have done previous tours with this company and some local competitors before and their guide Adele really blew us away!
Where is the best place to go kayaking in California?
Both Monterey Bay and Elkhorn Slough are calm and sheltered, making them perfect spots for a first kayak excursion. Outfitters such as Adventures By the Sea, Kayak Connection and Monterey Bay Kayaks provide renters with proper outerwear, life jackets, gear and a 10-15 minute lesson before you head out to paddle on the bay.
Is it safe to go kayaking in the Bay?
No. This trip includes personal floatation device and trained safety personnel in a fairly calm Bay without waves. If you follow instructions it is difficult to fall out of the kayak, because they are very stable.