How do our guided tours work?
Tours are led by our informative and friendly guides, who provide safety as well as ensure you get to see and experience as much as possible during your time on the water. They are trained as Certified Wildlife Stewards and have lots of local wildlife knowledge to share. From our unique ecosystems, to sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, shore birds, to tiny marine invertebrates, they will answer all your questions if you are curious!
For full details on our guided tours, be sure to check our tour FAQS below!
For full details on our guided tours, be sure to check our tour FAQS below!
Guided Tour Elkhorn Slough Harbor 1.5 hourThis tour is a perfect adventure for young children and their parents. Even though we don't go far, we will still explore and visit sea otters, harbor seals, & birds close by. No experience is necessary, and it is recommended for families with children ages 3 to 10. See Tour FAQS below for details.
$60 per person includes gear Daily 9:00, 11:00, 3:00 More times available on weekends Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up |
No booking fees
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Guided Tour Elkhorn Slough - 2.5 hourExplore more of this national estuarine reserve! Spend more time appreciating the sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and a just a few of the 300+ species of birds. No experience is required. Recommended for adults and kids over 10 years old. See Tour FAQS below for details.
$70 per person Offered daily at 10:00 and 2:00 pm Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up (no booking fees) |
No booking fees
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Bioluminescence Guided Tour at Elkhorn Slough - 2.5 hour
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Trips start during the calm twilight to experience the quiet, peaceful ambiance while sea otters and harbor seals go about their business. There is a good chance to see bioluminescence activity once it is fully dark. We include extra warm gear and hot cocoa afterwards. See Tour FAQS below for details.
4 person minimum. $115 per person Offered on select dates Each trip may have a different start time Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up (no booking fees, see reservation/refund policy below) |
No booking fees
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Sunrise at Elkhorn Slough Tour - 2.5 hour
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For true kayaking and Elkhorn Slough enthusiasts!
Experience the stillness and quiet of being the first paddlers on the water. Say good morning to sea otters and harbor seals before you start your day. No experience is required. Recommended for adults and kids over 10 years old. See Tour FAQS below for details. 4 person minimum $75 per person Offered on select days Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up (no booking fees, see reservation/refund policy below) |
No booking fees
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Ride the King Tide Tours
(Wintertime Special Nov - March)
Experience a natural physical phenomena during the King Tides of winter. Elkhorn Slough is one of the best places to feel the effect of the unusually strong lunar gravitational pull resulting in dramatic high and low tidal changes. This allows us to paddle further in and see more of the slough, then we take advantage of the maximum tidal outflow for an easy ride back to the harbor. Bonus - view sea otters, harbor seals, and visiting winter migratory birds! See Tour FAQS below for details.
Previous experience is recommended due to the length of the tour and the distance covered.
$90 per person Offered on select dates Nov - March
Each trip may have a different start time
Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up
Previous experience is recommended due to the length of the tour and the distance covered.
$90 per person Offered on select dates Nov - March
Each trip may have a different start time
Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up
No booking fees
The Whole Slough Tours 3.5 Hour
(Summertime Special)
If you ever wanted to experience more of the Elkhorn Slough, summer and fall are best times. See more of the different types of habitats, more sea otters, more harbor seals and more bird watching! We schedule trips on days with minimum tidal exchange and start early to avoid the winds on the way back. See Tour FAQS below for details. Recommended for experienced paddlers and kids 13+
4 person minimum
$85 per person
Offered on select dates (April - Oct)
Each trip may have a different start time
Recommended for kids 13 +
Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up
(no booking fees, see reservation/refund policy below)
4 person minimum
$85 per person
Offered on select dates (April - Oct)
Each trip may have a different start time
Recommended for kids 13 +
Must arrive 30 min before start time to gear up
(no booking fees, see reservation/refund policy below)
Reservation & Cancellation Policy
Reservations require full payment in advance and can be made online or by phone.
(We do not accept Amex cards for reservations.)
Please note: any reservations made after hours for the following day or same day, cannot be confirmed until we re-open at 9:00 AM. We will contact you as soon as possible if that is the case.
Full refunds are given for cancellations or changes made up to 48 hours before your event or if we cancel for safety or other reasons. There are no refunds for cancellations, changes, lateness, or no-shows
within 48 hours of the tour date for any reason.
To maximize your experience and ensure your safety, our groups are kept small, with one of the highest ratios of guides to customers. We have a limited number of tour spots, and we turn away others due to your reservation, so please do not ask us to make exceptions.
Reservations require full payment in advance and can be made online or by phone.
(We do not accept Amex cards for reservations.)
Please note: any reservations made after hours for the following day or same day, cannot be confirmed until we re-open at 9:00 AM. We will contact you as soon as possible if that is the case.
Full refunds are given for cancellations or changes made up to 48 hours before your event or if we cancel for safety or other reasons. There are no refunds for cancellations, changes, lateness, or no-shows
within 48 hours of the tour date for any reason.
To maximize your experience and ensure your safety, our groups are kept small, with one of the highest ratios of guides to customers. We have a limited number of tour spots, and we turn away others due to your reservation, so please do not ask us to make exceptions.
FAQS for Elkhorn Slough Guided Tours
How DO guided tours work?
a. Tours are led by our informative and friendly guides, who provide safety as well as ensure you get to see and experience as much as possible during your time on the water. They are trained as Certified Wildlife Stewards and have lots of local wildlife knowledge to share. From our unique ecosystems, to sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, shore birds, to tiny marine invertebrates, they will answer all your questions if you are curious!
We use sit-on-top double kayaks due to their stability and speed, and they come with adjustable backrests for comfort. Lifevests, splash jackets, and splash pants are included. Groups are kept small to provide the best personalized experience, and the pace is relaxed. How far we venture does depend on the weather and the speed of each group.
With seats limited on each tour, reservations are required. Reservations can be made online or by phone. You will then receive an email confirmation with trip details such as what to wear/bring/maps, etc. See our complete reservation/refund policy above.
b. Tours start on time! Checkin at the store 30 minutes before your tour starts so you can relax and meet your guide. They will make sure you are comfortable and well prepared! If you are late checking in, we may have to leave without you in consideration of other guests on the tour. There are no refunds for lateness, but there is an option to go out on a rental if available.
c. Your guide will help you launch from the beach (your feet will get wet) and, once everyone is on the water, will lead you on an amazing tour of Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve.
d. Consider a nice tip for your hardworking guide!
We use sit-on-top double kayaks due to their stability and speed, and they come with adjustable backrests for comfort. Lifevests, splash jackets, and splash pants are included. Groups are kept small to provide the best personalized experience, and the pace is relaxed. How far we venture does depend on the weather and the speed of each group.
With seats limited on each tour, reservations are required. Reservations can be made online or by phone. You will then receive an email confirmation with trip details such as what to wear/bring/maps, etc. See our complete reservation/refund policy above.
b. Tours start on time! Checkin at the store 30 minutes before your tour starts so you can relax and meet your guide. They will make sure you are comfortable and well prepared! If you are late checking in, we may have to leave without you in consideration of other guests on the tour. There are no refunds for lateness, but there is an option to go out on a rental if available.
c. Your guide will help you launch from the beach (your feet will get wet) and, once everyone is on the water, will lead you on an amazing tour of Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve.
d. Consider a nice tip for your hardworking guide!
what is the tour cancellation policy?
1. We require 48 hours' notice for a full refund. There are no refunds for any cancellations, changes, lateness, or no-shows within 48 hours of your event.
2. Our tour groups are kept small for the best experience and have a higher guide-to-customer ratio than other kayak companies. Your reservation has held your space and turned away others, so please do not ask for exceptions.
3. We will refund you if we cancel for safety reasons. We do not cancel or refund for light rain, overcast skies, or cool temperatures. Strong winds are the most frequent reason we cancel, even on warm, sunny days. Dense fog is rare and temporary but may postpone launching.
4. We do not cancel tours based on the general forecast because of our unique micro-climate. Actual conditions on the day of the tour will determine if the water conditions are safe. If you are concerned about the weather, cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and re-book closer to the time/date if the tour is available. A reminder email about your reservation is sent 48 hours before your tour.
2. Our tour groups are kept small for the best experience and have a higher guide-to-customer ratio than other kayak companies. Your reservation has held your space and turned away others, so please do not ask for exceptions.
3. We will refund you if we cancel for safety reasons. We do not cancel or refund for light rain, overcast skies, or cool temperatures. Strong winds are the most frequent reason we cancel, even on warm, sunny days. Dense fog is rare and temporary but may postpone launching.
4. We do not cancel tours based on the general forecast because of our unique micro-climate. Actual conditions on the day of the tour will determine if the water conditions are safe. If you are concerned about the weather, cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and re-book closer to the time/date if the tour is available. A reminder email about your reservation is sent 48 hours before your tour.
Whats the weather? When is the best time to paddle and see wildlife? Short answer: when its least windy!
Kayaking with an experienced guide is always easier, despite weather conditions. In general, mornings are usually the calmest and least windy time of day but can be cloudier and cooler. Afternoons can be sunnier and warmer but with more onshore winds making paddling back harder. Strong winds are the main reason we limit or cancel tours.
* April-June: The earlier the better. Strong afternoon winds are typical and always blows against you on the way back.
* July-Oct: Early morning and late afternoon are the calmest time of day on the water. The middle of the day is often the windiest. September and October are sometimes our warmest and least windy months!
• Nov-March: We can have some of the nicest weather of the year in between any rain or storms. Weather can be more unpredictable and subject to rapid changes. Tidal currents are strongest this time of year.
Weather & tide sites:
Windfinder set for the Moss Landing Area including Elkhorn Slough
Weather Channel for Elkhorn Slough, Moss Landing, CA
* April-June: The earlier the better. Strong afternoon winds are typical and always blows against you on the way back.
* July-Oct: Early morning and late afternoon are the calmest time of day on the water. The middle of the day is often the windiest. September and October are sometimes our warmest and least windy months!
• Nov-March: We can have some of the nicest weather of the year in between any rain or storms. Weather can be more unpredictable and subject to rapid changes. Tidal currents are strongest this time of year.
Weather & tide sites:
Windfinder set for the Moss Landing Area including Elkhorn Slough
Weather Channel for Elkhorn Slough, Moss Landing, CA
what should I bring/wear? Will I get wet?
•You should plan on getting a little wet since this is a watersport! Fortunately we have you covered!
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH THE RENTAL FEE?
• We include a lifevest and optional splash jackets and/or splash pants to put over your quick-dry clothing. Dress in layers and bring extra clothes to leave in your car. Wetsuits are available if you prefer (bring bathing suit).
• We have private changing rooms and restrooms for our customers.
* Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, eyewear retainers, water, snacks. Phones should be in waterproof cases. (many of these items are available for sale at our store)
* Flip flops or any footwear you can get wet.
• Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry or bring large backpacks on the water.
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH THE RENTAL FEE?
• We include a lifevest and optional splash jackets and/or splash pants to put over your quick-dry clothing. Dress in layers and bring extra clothes to leave in your car. Wetsuits are available if you prefer (bring bathing suit).
• We have private changing rooms and restrooms for our customers.
* Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, eyewear retainers, water, snacks. Phones should be in waterproof cases. (many of these items are available for sale at our store)
* Flip flops or any footwear you can get wet.
• Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry or bring large backpacks on the water.
Directions? Parking? DO YOU HAVE LOCKERS?
No, but we have guest bins where you can leave clothing/shoes. We recommend locking valuables in your car and we offer to hold your car keys at the front desk.
WHERE ARE YOU? IS THERE PARKING?
We are located in the North Harbor of Moss Landing, just north of the bridge on Highway 1 and on the west side of the highway. Don't go into South harbor! There is a large parking area so try to park close to our building. The Harbor charges $11 per vehicle. If you have a private boat, launch from the beach or small ramp and avoid the larger docks.
WHERE ARE YOU? IS THERE PARKING?
We are located in the North Harbor of Moss Landing, just north of the bridge on Highway 1 and on the west side of the highway. Don't go into South harbor! There is a large parking area so try to park close to our building. The Harbor charges $11 per vehicle. If you have a private boat, launch from the beach or small ramp and avoid the larger docks.
WHAT IS BEST FOR CHILDREN ?
• We recommend the 1.5 harbor tour for children 3 - 12 yrs
• Children at least 10 yrs old can join a 2.5 hour tour if parents think it is suitable.
• Children do not need to know how to swim however, they should be comfortable in the water.
• Children at least 10 yrs old can join a 2.5 hour tour if parents think it is suitable.
• Children do not need to know how to swim however, they should be comfortable in the water.
Will I see any animals? How close can I get to them?
While the goal is to see as much wildlife as possible, your guide will keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing their natural behavior. We ask all paddlers to be aware that sea otters are a threatened species and are protected by Federal law from harassment. You must stay at least 5 boat lengths from sea otters and harbor seals in the estuary. Paddle parallel to them, and avoid surrounding them if there are other people. No matter how far away you are, back away immediately if the animal seems alarmed or starts to escape from you. You may be fined if you disturb, harass, touch, or feed them.
Not only are they the cutest animals ever, but they are also an important keystone species for the entire ecosystem. Therefore we need to help them survive and thrive and not cause harm. Observe and appreciate from a distance to avoid stressing them and wasting their limited energy, especially mothers and pups. Harbor seals and pups are also very sensitive to disturbance, especially when they are resting on shore.
Learn more: SEA OTTERS AND OTHER MARINE MAMMALS.
Not only are they the cutest animals ever, but they are also an important keystone species for the entire ecosystem. Therefore we need to help them survive and thrive and not cause harm. Observe and appreciate from a distance to avoid stressing them and wasting their limited energy, especially mothers and pups. Harbor seals and pups are also very sensitive to disturbance, especially when they are resting on shore.
Learn more: SEA OTTERS AND OTHER MARINE MAMMALS.
Elkhorn Slough or Monterey bay? Which is better?
They are both unique places to paddle and see wildlife, so you really can't go wrong at either location! Both places are protected calm areas suitable for beginners. Both locations are sometimes subject to wind on certain days, making the water choppier and limiting how far you can paddle. We offer guided tours and self-guided rentals at both locations.
If you want to experience the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve, come to our location in the North Harbor of Moss Landing, just 20 minutes north of Monterey on Highway 1. We paddle inland, and once past the Highway 1 bridge and the power plant, it is a quieter area with few buildings and is surrounded by mudflats and oak hills. Recently a new home for sea otters, you will see lots of them (and harbor seals!) all along your paddle route. This is also an amazing area for discovering shore birds - especially during spring and fall migrations! Strong afternoon onshore winds and winter tidal currents can sometimes make the return trip a bit challenging if you are looking for more excitement!
If you want to experience the exciting California Pacific Coast AND see an amazing array of wildlife, come to our Monterey beach location. We paddle the shoreline from the Monterey Harbor, Fisherman's Wharf, and historic Cannery Row areas. This is the best place to experience the famous Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, with its diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Typically, paddlers will see everything from sea otters, seals, sea lions, the occasional dolphin, shorebirds, and habitats like kelp forests. Our paddling area is the most protected spot on the bay, but can occasionally experience small surf or swell outside the harbor area.
If you want to experience the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve, come to our location in the North Harbor of Moss Landing, just 20 minutes north of Monterey on Highway 1. We paddle inland, and once past the Highway 1 bridge and the power plant, it is a quieter area with few buildings and is surrounded by mudflats and oak hills. Recently a new home for sea otters, you will see lots of them (and harbor seals!) all along your paddle route. This is also an amazing area for discovering shore birds - especially during spring and fall migrations! Strong afternoon onshore winds and winter tidal currents can sometimes make the return trip a bit challenging if you are looking for more excitement!
If you want to experience the exciting California Pacific Coast AND see an amazing array of wildlife, come to our Monterey beach location. We paddle the shoreline from the Monterey Harbor, Fisherman's Wharf, and historic Cannery Row areas. This is the best place to experience the famous Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, with its diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Typically, paddlers will see everything from sea otters, seals, sea lions, the occasional dolphin, shorebirds, and habitats like kelp forests. Our paddling area is the most protected spot on the bay, but can occasionally experience small surf or swell outside the harbor area.
Rentals or guided tours?
Our guided tours are for those who want to learn more about natural history of Monterey Bay and want the safety of having a guide. Our personable guides will make sure you get to see and experience as much as possible to get the most out of your time on the water. Because our tour groups are small, you must make reservations ahead of time.
For rentals, you receive on-land safety orientation and kayak, and you can launch, paddle, and land on your own schedule. Capsizes are rare but they can happen! If you capsize, you should have the upper body strength to climb back on your kayak and help others in your group. If you are unsure of your skills, consider a guided tour where you will be accompanied by a guide at all times.
For rentals, you receive on-land safety orientation and kayak, and you can launch, paddle, and land on your own schedule. Capsizes are rare but they can happen! If you capsize, you should have the upper body strength to climb back on your kayak and help others in your group. If you are unsure of your skills, consider a guided tour where you will be accompanied by a guide at all times.
Should i do a 1.5 hour Harbor tour and 2.5 hour tour?
The 1.5-hour Harbor tour is recommended for families with young children 3 years and up, Due to the shorter duration, the tour ventures only about 1+ mile into the slough before turning back. However, many otters and harbor seals can be seen in or close to North Harbor.
The 2.5-hour tour provides enough time to paddle to "Seal Bend," just over 2 miles from the harbor. The pace is leisurely, with plenty of time to observe wildlife. This is an easy, leisurely tour, and we recommend this for older children and adults.
Note the actual distance paddled is determined by each group's abilities and factors like winds and tides.
The 2.5-hour tour provides enough time to paddle to "Seal Bend," just over 2 miles from the harbor. The pace is leisurely, with plenty of time to observe wildlife. This is an easy, leisurely tour, and we recommend this for older children and adults.
Note the actual distance paddled is determined by each group's abilities and factors like winds and tides.
What kind of kayaks do you use on tours?
We use sit-on-top doubles for the 1.5 and 2.5 hour tours. They are very user-friendly, stable and comfortable for everyone from children to adults. If there is an odd # of guests in your group, you may paddle a single kayak. Singles can be tippier than doubles. All kayaks have backrests. Closed-deck kayaks may be used on our longer tours or private tours.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes, 250 lbs per person for safety reasons.
Can I rent if I am pregnant?
Yes as long as you are not in your 3rd trimester.
Can I bring wine?
NO, we will not allow anyone under the influence of alcohol/drugs/legal marijuana to get on the water for safety reasons.
Are dogs allowed on guided tours?
Not on guided tours due to the consideration of other guests. They are allowed on open deck rental kayaks.
I have a group of 17 or more people
Give us a call to set up a private tour or submit an inquiry -click here for private group tours. For school and youth groups - click here
I want to learn more about the elkhorn slough!
Check out the Elkhorn Slough Foundation's website. They have a wonderful visitor center and beautiful walking trails on the south eastern part of Elkhorn Slough. They also have docent-led walks and host many school groups.
Check-in at our store at North Harbor 2390 Highway 1,
Moss Landing, CA
Open Daily 9:00 to 5:00
Phone (831) 373-5357
HOLIDAY HOURS
Open 9-5 Daily except Christmas Day
Thanksgiving Day 9:00 - 3:00
Christmas Eve 9:00 - 3:00
New Year's Eve 9:00 - 3:00
New Year's Day 9:00 -3:00
Call us (831) 373-5357
Why paddle with Monterey Bay Kayaks?
We are Certified Wildlife Stewards from Sea Otter Savvy
Business Tourism award from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
2020 Travelers Choice by TripAdvisor
Two locations offer unparalleled wildlife & paddling experiences,
the Monterey city shoreline and Elkhorn Slough estuary
Open 9-5 Daily except Christmas Day
Thanksgiving Day 9:00 - 3:00
Christmas Eve 9:00 - 3:00
New Year's Eve 9:00 - 3:00
New Year's Day 9:00 -3:00
Call us (831) 373-5357
Why paddle with Monterey Bay Kayaks?
We are Certified Wildlife Stewards from Sea Otter Savvy
Business Tourism award from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
2020 Travelers Choice by TripAdvisor
Two locations offer unparalleled wildlife & paddling experiences,
the Monterey city shoreline and Elkhorn Slough estuary
ABOUT MONTEREY BAY KAYAKS
We are a locally owned and operated small business that pioneered eco-tourism in 1985 and has been a leader in kayak recreation and education ever since!
We have introduced over 450,000 people to our unique and beautiful area with naturalist led tours, comprehensive rental packages and classes with ACA trained instructors.
Our mission is to provide a wonderful and exceptional experience for everyone while fostering stewardship of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve.
We are a locally owned and operated small business that pioneered eco-tourism in 1985 and has been a leader in kayak recreation and education ever since!
We have introduced over 450,000 people to our unique and beautiful area with naturalist led tours, comprehensive rental packages and classes with ACA trained instructors.
Our mission is to provide a wonderful and exceptional experience for everyone while fostering stewardship of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve.