RENTAL RATES - up to 4 hours
Sit-on-top DOUBLE KAYAKS - $38 PER PERSON
Sit on-top SINGLE KAYAKS -$48 PER PERSON
Single STANDUP PADDLEBOARDS -$48 PER PERSON
(may be unavailable on windy afternoons)
Sit-inside Single kayak - $65 PER PERSON
Sit-inside Double kayak - $55 PER PERSON
(sit-inside kayaks have other safety requirements)
FITNESS PADDLING PASS - $150 per person/per month/use at both locations
For details, see FAQs below)
No reservations needed, walk-ins welcome*
With the largest fleet of kayaks in the area we make it convenient for you to paddle when you want without prepayment.
* If you are organizing a group of 8 - 16 people and want to pre-pay you can Book Now
* For groups of 17 or more, we offer a 10% discount. Send inquiry now
How Kayak Rentals work
1. Check in at our store! If you can, start early in the day for the calmest weather. Afternoon winds may limit or cancel rentals.
2. Gear up! We include splash jackets and pants and lifevests. We have private changing and restrooms. (see what to wear/bring in the FAQs below)
3. Mandatory safety & wildlife briefing before launch! Taking a few minutes before you launch to cover this info will make your day much more enjoyable.
4. Launch time! You can then launch, paddle and land on your own schedule.
5. SEE OUR FAQS BELOW FOR LOTS OF INFORMATION!
Sit-on-top DOUBLE KAYAKS - $38 PER PERSON
Sit on-top SINGLE KAYAKS -$48 PER PERSON
Single STANDUP PADDLEBOARDS -$48 PER PERSON
(may be unavailable on windy afternoons)
Sit-inside Single kayak - $65 PER PERSON
Sit-inside Double kayak - $55 PER PERSON
(sit-inside kayaks have other safety requirements)
FITNESS PADDLING PASS - $150 per person/per month/use at both locations
For details, see FAQs below)
No reservations needed, walk-ins welcome*
With the largest fleet of kayaks in the area we make it convenient for you to paddle when you want without prepayment.
* If you are organizing a group of 8 - 16 people and want to pre-pay you can Book Now
* For groups of 17 or more, we offer a 10% discount. Send inquiry now
How Kayak Rentals work
1. Check in at our store! If you can, start early in the day for the calmest weather. Afternoon winds may limit or cancel rentals.
2. Gear up! We include splash jackets and pants and lifevests. We have private changing and restrooms. (see what to wear/bring in the FAQs below)
3. Mandatory safety & wildlife briefing before launch! Taking a few minutes before you launch to cover this info will make your day much more enjoyable.
4. Launch time! You can then launch, paddle and land on your own schedule.
5. SEE OUR FAQS BELOW FOR LOTS OF INFORMATION!
Check-in at our store at North Harbor 2390 Highway 1,
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Frequently Asked Questions about renting
at Elkhorn Slough
What is the Mandatory safety orientation ?
Everyone in your party must be present to begin the mandatory safety orientation. Taking a few minutes before you launch to cover this info will make your day much more enjoyable.
- Current weather conditions that might affect where you can paddle.
- Weather can change quickly!
- Rules about paddling in this National Estuarine Reserve.
- How to observe wildlife without disturbing/harassing them.
- How to paddle and control your boat (turning, stopping, launch, land)
- How to rescue yourself if there is a capsize. Capsizes are rare but they can happen! If you capsize, you should be able to swim and 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.
- You can then launch, paddle and land on your own schedule. Let our staff know you have returned.
Should i rent or take a guided tour?
Do I need to know how to swim?
Do I need to know how to swim?
For rentals, you receive on-land safety orientation and kayak, and you will launch, paddle and land on your own. Capsizes are rare but they can happen! If you capsize, you should be able to swim and 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.
Our guided tours are for those who want to learn more about natural history of Elkhorn Slough Estuarine Reserve and want the safety of having a guide for beginners and non-swimmers. Our experienced 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. Our tour groups are kept small for the best experience, we have the highest ratio of guide to customers.
Our guided tours are for those who want to learn more about natural history of Elkhorn Slough Estuarine Reserve and want the safety of having a guide for beginners and non-swimmers. Our experienced 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. Our tour groups are kept small for the best experience, we have the highest ratio of guide to customers.
What will the weather be?
Weather & tide sites:
Windfinder for the Moss Landing Area including Elkhorn Slough
Weather Channel for Elkhorn Slough, Moss Landing, CA
Weather & tide sites:
Windfinder for the Moss Landing Area including Elkhorn Slough
Weather Channel for Elkhorn Slough, Moss Landing, CA
WINDFINDER FOR THE MOSS LANDING AREA INCLUDING ELKHORN SLOUGH
WEATHER CHANNEL FOR ELKHORN SLOUGH, MOSS LANDING, CAOr call us to get updated conditions.
WEATHER CHANNEL FOR ELKHORN SLOUGH, MOSS LANDING, CAOr call us to get updated conditions.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO PADDLE AND SEE WILDLIFE?
SHORT ANSWER: WHEN ITS LEAST WINDY!
SHORT ANSWER: WHEN ITS LEAST WINDY!
Sea otters forage and rest throughout the day. But it is easier to view them when its calm and you aren't fighting the wind!
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 rentals, especially paddleboards, and rescue people on Elkhorn Slough.
• Spring April-June: The earlier the better. Afternoon winds are typical and and can be very strong.
• 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. Light rain or low clouds without wind can be the best time to view wildlife! Weather can be more unpredictable and subject to rapid changes. Tidal currents are strongest this time of year.
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 rentals, especially paddleboards, and rescue people on Elkhorn Slough.
• Spring April-June: The earlier the better. Afternoon winds are typical and and can be very strong.
• 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. Light rain or low clouds without wind can be the best time to view wildlife! Weather can be more unpredictable and subject to rapid changes. Tidal currents are strongest this time of year.
WILL I GET WET? WHAT'S INCLUDED? WHAT DO I BRING/WEAR?
•You should plan on getting a little wet since this is a watersport and you are very, very close to the water! Fortunately we have you covered!
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH THE RENTAL FEE?
• 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.
• Kayaks are equipped with backrests, paddles and leashes
* YOU BRING:
• Quick drying layers of clothing to wear under splash gear and extra to leave in the car for after kayaking. Base layers and mid layers are recommended to adjust to the variable coastal weather.
• Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, eyewear retainers, water, and snacks. Phones & car keys should be in waterproof cases. (many of these items are available for sale at our store).
Eyeglasses, phones and car keys are the most frequently lost items on the water.
* Flip flops or any footwear you can get wet - you will most likely be wading in the water.
• Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry, heavy cotton clothing or bring large backpacks on the water.
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH THE RENTAL FEE?
• 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.
• Kayaks are equipped with backrests, paddles and leashes
* YOU BRING:
• Quick drying layers of clothing to wear under splash gear and extra to leave in the car for after kayaking. Base layers and mid layers are recommended to adjust to the variable coastal weather.
• Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, eyewear retainers, water, and snacks. Phones & car keys should be in waterproof cases. (many of these items are available for sale at our store).
Eyeglasses, phones and car keys are the most frequently lost items on the water.
* Flip flops or any footwear you can get wet - you will most likely be wading in the water.
• Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry, heavy cotton clothing or bring large backpacks on the water.
WHAT IS BEST FOR CHILDREN ?
• Children must be at least 5 years old for rentals. No exceptions. Children 3-5 years old can join our 1.5-Hour Harbor tours.
• Children should be good swimmers. Otherwise, consider joining a guided tour.
• Children 5-12 must be in a double with an adult.
• Kids 13+ can paddle a single kayak or standup paddleboard.
• All minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on the water at all times
• Children should be good swimmers. Otherwise, consider joining a guided tour.
• Children 5-12 must be in a double with an adult.
• Kids 13+ can paddle a single kayak or standup paddleboard.
• All minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on the water at all times
WILL I see any animals? How close can I get to sea otters?
Yes, you are going to see sea otters and harbor seals, so being aware of not getting too close is a major concern.
Sea otters are a threatened species and are protected by Federal law from harassment. You may be fined if you disturb, harass, touch, or feed them.
• You must stay at least 5 boat lengths from sea otters and harbor seals.
• Paddle parallel to them, don't point your kayak directly at 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 (some animals are more sensitive then others, especially mothers with pups).
•
Help them thrive and survive 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. If you get too close, they can stampede into the water for safety, sometimes hurting or abandoning pups.
Learn more: SEA OTTERS AND OTHER MARINE MAMMALS.
Sea otters are a threatened species and are protected by Federal law from harassment. You may be fined if you disturb, harass, touch, or feed them.
• You must stay at least 5 boat lengths from sea otters and harbor seals.
• Paddle parallel to them, don't point your kayak directly at 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 (some animals are more sensitive then others, especially mothers with pups).
•
Help them thrive and survive 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. If you get too close, they can stampede into the water for safety, sometimes hurting or abandoning pups.
Learn more: SEA OTTERS AND OTHER MARINE MAMMALS.
What is the difference between the Elkhorn Slough and the Monterey location?
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.
WHERE CAN you paddle in Elkhorn Slough?
Everyone should paddle on the main channel. Do not go into tidal creeks.
CAN I LAUNCH OR LAND ANYWHERE IN ELKHORN SLOUGH?
NO, all the land surrounding Elkhorn Slough is either owned privately or protected by state and federal agencies. The only public access is from the North Harbor.
CAN I PADDLE IN SOUTH HARBOR?
NO, The South Harbor is used by large commercial and research vessels. They have the right of way and must stay in their narrow channel or risk running aground and damaging their vessel if you paddle in front of them. They might not see small kayaks/paddleboards, and they might not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
CAN I PADDLE OUTSIDE MOSS LANDING HARBOR?
No, we do not allow renters to paddle in the ocean outside Moss Landing harbor for your own safety. Consider going to our Monterey location for an exciting ocean experience in a more sheltered part of the bay.
WHAT IS KIRBY PARK?
Kirby Park is a county park located approximately 5 miles inland from the harbor. However, the road, gates, and boat ramp may be closed, so access is unreliable. It may not be possible for anyone to pick you up if you paddle there and are unable to paddle back. There are no bathrooms, shelter or fresh water there.
CAN I LAUNCH OR LAND ANYWHERE IN ELKHORN SLOUGH?
NO, all the land surrounding Elkhorn Slough is either owned privately or protected by state and federal agencies. The only public access is from the North Harbor.
CAN I PADDLE IN SOUTH HARBOR?
NO, The South Harbor is used by large commercial and research vessels. They have the right of way and must stay in their narrow channel or risk running aground and damaging their vessel if you paddle in front of them. They might not see small kayaks/paddleboards, and they might not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
CAN I PADDLE OUTSIDE MOSS LANDING HARBOR?
No, we do not allow renters to paddle in the ocean outside Moss Landing harbor for your own safety. Consider going to our Monterey location for an exciting ocean experience in a more sheltered part of the bay.
WHAT IS KIRBY PARK?
Kirby Park is a county park located approximately 5 miles inland from the harbor. However, the road, gates, and boat ramp may be closed, so access is unreliable. It may not be possible for anyone to pick you up if you paddle there and are unable to paddle back. There are no bathrooms, shelter or fresh water there.
DO YOU HAVE LOCKERS? PARKING?
No lockers, but we have guest bins where you can leave clothing/shoes or lock everything in your car. We can hold your phones and car keys at the front desk.
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 District charges $14 per vehicle. If you have a private boat, launch from the beach or small ramp and avoid the larger docks.
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 District charges $14 per vehicle. If you have a private boat, launch from the beach or small ramp and avoid the larger docks.
CAN I RENT IF I AM PREGNANT?
Yes as long as you are not in your 3rd trimester.
CAN I BRING ALCOHOL?
NO, it is illegal to operate watercraft under the influence of alcohol/drugs/legal marijuana. We will also not rent to anyone who seem to inebriated or plans to bring it with them.
IS THERE A WEIGHT LIMIT?
Yes, 250 lbs per person for safety reasons (regardless of the type of craft you will be renting).
ARE DOGS ALLOWED ON RENTAL KAYAKS?
Yes, but on open-deck kayaks only. There are many federally protected marine mammals that might get close to your kayak, and dogs should not jump into the water or harass them in any other way. Owners will be held responsible and may be fined.
There is no extra charge as long as dogs are under 40 lbs and they fit into a single kayak with 1 person or a double kayak with 2 people.
If dogs are over 40 lbs, they will need to go in a double with 1 person and be subject to a $35 fee during summer and holiday periods. These limits are set up to ensure safety for all, so please do not ask us to make exceptions.
We do not provide life vests for dogs, so bring your own, or they are available for purchase. Your dog will need to be leashed at all times when on land.
There is no extra charge as long as dogs are under 40 lbs and they fit into a single kayak with 1 person or a double kayak with 2 people.
If dogs are over 40 lbs, they will need to go in a double with 1 person and be subject to a $35 fee during summer and holiday periods. These limits are set up to ensure safety for all, so please do not ask us to make exceptions.
We do not provide life vests for dogs, so bring your own, or they are available for purchase. Your dog will need to be leashed at all times when on land.
I have a group of 8 or more people
If you are organizing a group of 8 or more people and want to prepay for everyone, we now accept on line reservations. Refunds for cancellations will be given up to 48 hours prior to your event, no exceptions.
For groups of 17 or more people, we offer a 10% discount with a pre-paid reservation. Refunds for cancellations will be given up to 2 weeks prior to your event, no exceptions.
Group reservations are recommended if you need the event more organized. You will receive an email with trip details and online waiver to forward to all members of your group. We recommend having everyone sign our online waivers before arrival to save time.
If you are unsure of how many people will show up from your group, don't make a reservation for them so you won't lose your payment or booking fees. We can easily accomodate them when they walk in and pay on arrival.
For groups of 17 or more people, we offer a 10% discount with a pre-paid reservation. Refunds for cancellations will be given up to 2 weeks prior to your event, no exceptions.
Group reservations are recommended if you need the event more organized. You will receive an email with trip details and online waiver to forward to all members of your group. We recommend having everyone sign our online waivers before arrival to save time.
If you are unsure of how many people will show up from your group, don't make a reservation for them so you won't lose your payment or booking fees. We can easily accomodate them when they walk in and pay on arrival.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW TO RENT A CLOSED DECK (SIT INSIDE) KAYAK?
They are less stable and, if capsized, will fill up with water. You should know how to do a wet exit AND water re-entry. There are also more parts and safety equipment that you must know how to use.
WHAT IS A SIT-ON-TOP KAYAK?
SIT-ON-TOP KAYAKS ARE USER FRIENDLY, STABLE, SELF-BAILING KAYAKS THAT YOU ARE NOT ENCLOSED IN. IF YOU CAPSIZE, THEY DON'T FILL WITH WATER, AND IT IS EASIER TO CLIMB BACK ON BOARD (SEE PHOTOS ON THE GRAPHIC ABOVE). THESE ARE RECOMMENDED FOR EVERYONE, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN.
Answer to question 18
WHAT IS A FITNESS PADDLING PASS?
Skip the gym and include paddling amongst sea otters and seals into your fitness routine! This rental option gives you unlimited paddling at our Monterey and Elkhorn Slough locations for 30 days (sit-on top kayak and standup paddleboard only). After the first safety orientation (per location), just check in with staff about weather advisories each time you drop in, and then go straight on the water. Purchase on the day you want to start the month-long pass.
WILL I SEE SEA OTTERS?
YES, but help them thrive and stay wild. Keep at least 5-8 boat lengths distant to avoid disturbing them, especially mothers and pups
Read about viewing sea otters and other marine mammals.
Read about viewing sea otters and other marine mammals.
This beautiful foldout map is brought to you by SeaOtterSavvy.org
Pick one up at our Moss Landing location.
Open 9-5 Daily @ both locations
Except 2024 HOLIDAY HOURS
Thanksgiving day - open 9:00 - 3:00
Chrismas Eve - open 9:00 - 3:00
Christmas Day - Closed
New Year's Eve - open 9:00 - 3:00
New Year's Day - open 9:00 - 5:00
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
Except 2024 HOLIDAY HOURS
Thanksgiving day - open 9:00 - 3:00
Chrismas Eve - open 9:00 - 3:00
Christmas Day - Closed
New Year's Eve - open 9:00 - 3:00
New Year's Day - open 9:00 - 5:00
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
MONTEREY LOCATION |
ELKHORN SLOUGH LOCATION |
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.