Paddle Elkhorn Slough

Elkhorn Slough is a favorite for Sloughkeepers. Each paddle there brings something new to watch as natural life goes on around us. In the entire Bay Area, this is one of the best places to kayak.

Be on the beach in front of Monterey Bay Kayaks at around 9:30 a.m. and READY TO LAUNCH at 10:00am. After a 2-minute briefing we will head out for a leisurely paddle up the slough to a point just past Seal Bend. There we will either pause for lunch, or--if the group so desires--paddle all the way to Kirby Park. Lunch is in the boat or outside the boat at Kirby Park depending how far the group paddles. We will be with the tides in both directions so this is an excellent paddle for beginners or experienced kayakers. If you don't own your own kayak you can rent from Monterey Bay Kayaks. It's best to reserve a kayak in advance as they do sell out on nice days. To contact for rentals: http://www.montereybaykayaks.com or 800-649-5357. If you are going to rent, please show up at MBK before 9:00am. If you are an absolute beginner, I recommend a sit-on-top kayak, and polyester or "wicking" underclothes. MBK will provide you with a wetsuit, PFD, paddle, and paddle jacket as part of their rental package. A wetsuit is always a good idea when paddling in cold water.

NOTE: We launch on time. Please show the group the courtesy of being there on time ready to go. There will be experienced paddlers in this group, or the always friendly and knowledgeable staff of MBK, to help you out.

If you have a marine VHF transceiver, we will be on channel 78.

There is a fee for parking in the Moss Landing Harbor Parking Lot. Get an envelope from the rusty kiosk on the bathroom building, and deposit your parking fee there as well. Note that you need only pay for parking, not launching, as we will not be using the launch ramp.

This paddle is not appropriate for children under 18 or pets.