Kayaking Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing
Over 100 sea otters reside in the Elkhorn Slough – ranking this paddle among the few “guaranteed wildlife sighting” trips anywhere on Earth
An Otter-ly Ridiculous Kayaking Excursion
Kayaking Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing, I saw 100 Otters.
Just when I started to worry I wasn’t going to see any, I saw my first otter. And then a second. A third. They had me surrounded. Some hung out on their backs, in classic resting positions. Others swam in around pairs, playfully spinning and wrestling through the water. Most kept their distance, but a few were curious enough to venture close.
While it’s hard for me to recommend a paddle with a wildlife guarantee – Elkhorn Slough comes close.
And it wasn’t just Otters. The Moss Landing State Wildlife Area is also home to seals, jellyfish, pelicans, and 340 of species of birds.
Sold yet?
You’ll have two options to put in at Elkhorn Slough. The first, more popular, choice is to start at the Moss Landing North Harbor Boat Ramp. If you’re renting, this is absolutely the place to be. However, if you own your own kayak, there’s a second option – Kirby Park.
Kirby Park was my choice. I drove by the Moss Landing Boat Ramp, but was overwhelmed by the number of people and boats checking out this spot on a Sunday afternoon. Besides, the fog was just starting to roll in. So I continued on to Kirby Park, seven miles inland. Aside from a few local fishermen, the put-in was clear.
As an added bonus, Kirby Park was sunny and had free parking.
I paddled through the Slough towards Monterey Bay. At first, I saw mostly birds. Had I come to the wrong place?
The muddy Slough is a perfect wildlife habitat, but perhaps not the scenery one expects on a coastal vacation. However, once I started seeing these playful otters, they just kept coming. I was elated. They were resting, eating, diving, and tons of fun to watch. A pair of otters circled each other like a pin wheeling yin yang. When I came too close, they disappeared to let me know.
Once you start seeing otters, keep paddling until you’ve had your fill.
Elkhorn Slough Paddling Advice
If you’re brought a second vehicle, consider setting up a car shuttle. With a car shuttle, you’ll cover the most ground and have the best opportunity to avoid traveling against winds and tides. You’re most likely to spot seals in the waters closest to Monterey Bay.
The tides are important to keep in mind when planning your Elkhorn Slough paddle. Kayaking against the tides can be slow and frustrating, and you won’t be able to cover much ground if you don’t time things right. In contrast – this is an easier trip with the current behind you.
Another important detail: snacks! Because the estuary is a protected area, there are no legal landing sites along your path. An estuary – where salt meets fresh water – is one of the most productive habitats on Earth and over 90% of these have been destroyed in California. That’s why the otters are here. To keep their home safe, bring snacks you can munch easily from your boat and look forward to a leisurely meal at the end of your journey. Also, stick to the main channel of the Slough. You don’t want to get stuck in the mud when the tide turns.
Visit elkhornslough.org to learn more.
Logistics for Kayaking Elkhorn Slough
Kayak Rentals
Rentals are available through Kayak Connection and Monterey Bay Kayak.
Elkhorn Slough Camping
Locally, your camping options are limited. New Brighton State Beach (near Capitola) offers amazing sunset views.
Kayaking with Kids
Most kids will enjoy the wildlife. Be mindful of timing and tides.
When to Go
Anytime. The otters hang out year-round, as does the fog. Fall brings your best chance for a sunny day.
Build Your Elkhorn Slough Weekend
Indulge in fried seafood at the Phil’s Snack Shack and Deli. Or, for a sit down meal, go to The Whole Enchilada, a decades-old local’s haunt with live music. Then, head north to Santa Cruz for (possibly) warmer weather. Add a redwood hike to your weekend for the full California Coast experience.
What's Next?
Continue exploring the California coast with paddles around Monterey and Lover’s Point. Or, for more journeys through natural environs visit Lake Tahoe’s East Shore and Yosemite’s Tenaya Lake.
