Paddle the Pajaro River

Let's paddle the Pajaro River in Watsonville again. We had a good time on this paddle last time.

The kayak launch point is in a relatively new park on the Pajaro river. The parking area is a dirt parking lot behind the water treatment plant, which you will see off to your left as you drive Beach Street towards the ocean.

The actual launch point is where a trail dead-ends into the river and could be muddy. It is a bit of a walk from the parking lot, so bring your kayak cart. (If you don't have one, I can loan you mine.) There is a restroom at the park, picnic tables, but no kayak washing facilities.

We'll be going about 3.5 miles downstream to the mouth of the Pajaro at Pajaro Dunes, stopping for a lunch/snack break, and then returning. Although the river current will be against us on the way back, we should have the wind at our backs.

We're doing this kinda late in the year, so there's a possibility we might hit very shallow water. Just be forewarned.

Meet at 11:00 and try to be on the river before 12:00.

General info: PFDs must be worn at all times on Sloughkeepers paddles. A whistle is also required (and mandated by law)--if you don't have one we will sell you one at cost for $3. Radios highly recommended, tune to ch 71. Note there is NO place to stop for a bathroom break. Be prepared to paddle 3-4 hours, and bring plenty of water, food, and sunblock.