RENTAL RATES - up to 4 HOURS
Sit-on-top DOUBLE KAYAKS - $35 PER PERSON
Sit on-top SINGLE KAYAKS -$40 PER PERSON
SINGLE STANDUP PADDLEBOARDS -$40 PER PERSON
(may be unavailable on windy afternoons)
FISHING KAYAK - $65 PER PERSON
(See FAQ below for fishing policies)
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.
*Groups
* 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
We will confirm availability and send a link to pay online to complete the booking.
How Kayak Rentals work on Monterey Beach
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 wetsuits, splash jackets 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. When you are ready to go, float the kayak from the beach and hop on and paddle!
5. SEE OUR FAQS AND BEACH CAM BELOW FOR LOTS OF INFORMATION!
Sit-on-top DOUBLE KAYAKS - $35 PER PERSON
Sit on-top SINGLE KAYAKS -$40 PER PERSON
SINGLE STANDUP PADDLEBOARDS -$40 PER PERSON
(may be unavailable on windy afternoons)
FISHING KAYAK - $65 PER PERSON
(See FAQ below for fishing policies)
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.
*Groups
* 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
We will confirm availability and send a link to pay online to complete the booking.
How Kayak Rentals work on Monterey Beach
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 wetsuits, splash jackets 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. When you are ready to go, float the kayak from the beach and hop on and paddle!
5. SEE OUR FAQS AND BEACH CAM BELOW FOR LOTS OF INFORMATION!
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.
Pick up our free sticker!
FAQ'S ABOUT RENTALS IN MONTEREY BAY
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 Marine Sanctuary.
- 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 join a tour? Do I need to know how to swim?
For rentals, once you receive on-land safety orientation and kayak, 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.
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 informative 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 kept small for the best experience, you will need to make a reservation ahead of time.
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 informative 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 kept small for the best experience, you will need to make a reservation ahead of time.
Whats the weather? When is the best time to paddle and see wildlife? Short answer: when its least windy!
Weather sites:
Windfinder set for Monterey Bay, Wharf 2
Weather Channel for Monterey, CA
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.
* April-June: The earlier the better. Springtime afternoon winds are typical and can be very gusty.
* 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 storm systems moving through. Weather can be more unpredictable and subject to rapid changes.
Windfinder set for Monterey Bay, Wharf 2
Weather Channel for Monterey, CA
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.
* April-June: The earlier the better. Springtime afternoon winds are typical and can be very gusty.
* 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 storm systems moving through. Weather can be more unpredictable and subject to rapid changes.
what is included? what do 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!
WE INCLUDE:
• Lifevest and optional wetsuit and splash jackets that can be worn over your bathing suits, board shorts, etc. If you don't opt for a wetsuit, wear quick-dry clothing and leave extras in your car. Monterey Bay water temp averages 57 degrees year-round.
• We have private changing rooms and restrooms for our customers.
• Kayaks are equipped with backrests, paddles, and leashes
* YOU BRING:
• Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, eyewear retainers, water, and snacks.
• Phones should be in waterproof cases.
* Flip flops or any footwear you can get wet.
(many of these items are available for sale at our store)
• Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry or bring large backpacks on the water.
WE INCLUDE:
• Lifevest and optional wetsuit and splash jackets that can be worn over your bathing suits, board shorts, etc. If you don't opt for a wetsuit, wear quick-dry clothing and leave extras in your car. Monterey Bay water temp averages 57 degrees year-round.
• We have private changing rooms and restrooms for our customers.
• Kayaks are equipped with backrests, paddles, and leashes
* YOU BRING:
• Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, eyewear retainers, water, and snacks.
• Phones should be in waterproof cases.
* Flip flops or any footwear you can get wet.
(many of these items are available for sale at our store)
• Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry or bring large backpacks on the water.
Directions? PARKING? DO YOU HAVE LOCKERS?
No lockers, 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.
Our location is easily accessible via the recreational walking/bike trail and by car from Del Monte Avenue and Fisherman’s Wharf. The most convenient parking is in front of our grey building, but there is parking all around us. Monterey City Waterfront parking can be purchased either in person at the kiosk next to our building or through the ParkMobile app (our lot is Zone 21008).
Our location is easily accessible via the recreational walking/bike trail and by car from Del Monte Avenue and Fisherman’s Wharf. The most convenient parking is in front of our grey building, but there is parking all around us. Monterey City Waterfront parking can be purchased either in person at the kiosk next to our building or through the ParkMobile app (our lot is Zone 21008).
HOW ABOUT CHILDREN AND MINORS?
• Children must be at least 5 years old for rentals. No exceptions. Children 3+ years old can join our 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?
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. 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 kelp 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. If you get too close, they can stampede into the water for safety, sometimes hurting or abandoning pups.
LEARN MORE ABOUT 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 kelp 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. If you get too close, they can stampede into the water for safety, sometimes hurting or abandoning pups.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SEA OTTERS AND OTHER MARINE MAMMALS.
Can I Fish from a kayak?
Yes, fishing kayaks have built in rod holders, and includes clean up fee.
- All rental policies apply including staying within the paddling area
- Bring your fishing license and own fishing gear.
- Best fishing is during the rockfish season, tbd by the CA Dept of Fish & Wildlife.
- Fishing in the MBNMS is enforced by the Dept of Fish & Wildlife, and it is your responsibility to know the laws.
- We recommend having kayaking experience before going out on your own. The best way is to take our kayak fishing tours with licensed fishing guides.
WHich location is better? monterey or elkhorn Slough?
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 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.
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 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.
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.
what is an open deck kayaks?
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.
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.
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 Alcohol?
NO, it is illegal to operate watercraft under the influence of alcohol/drugs/legal marijuana. We will also not rent to anyone who plans to bring it with them.
Are dogs allowed on rental kayaks?
Yes, 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 to be 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 to be 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.
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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.