In the Sloughs

Moss Landing is the home of Elkhorn Slough, an estuarine reserve populated with fresh and saltwater wildlife in seaside marshes. Sloughs create pathways perfect for kayaks to travel around. Both Kayak Connection and Monterey Bay Kayaks charter from this prime spot.

"The slough is a treasure. In the summer, it's just breathtaking," says Collins. "You're paddling in the midst of pelicans dive bombing all around you to catch food. Otters are very used to kayakers. In summer, there are lots of pelicans, otters, seals, loons and cormorants. In winter, the slough changes and millions of shorebirds come in to spend the winter."

Kayak Connection offers guided tours of the slough and open coast paddling tours for more accomplished paddlers. A basic three-class series gives you the necessary skills to explore the sea, but guided tours include sunset, full moon and bird-watch paddles in Elkhorn Slough.

"It's real easy to kayak. Just walk it to the edge of the water and get in. You're part of the natural world in a much easier way," says Collins. "It's not so intrusive. It's smaller, quieter and slower. You can really be a spy in the world around you without being noticed. Monterey Bay Kayaks (800-649-5357) also offers tours of the slough and charters from Monterey Wharf as well. Slough tours come with a naturalist to explain wildlife and the slough is perfect for a beginner. "It's a way to be immersed in nature," says Anj Anette, general manager of Monterey Bay Kayaks. "It's a way to see marine mammals and birds in natural habitats."

In the past, Anette says, kayakers would take longer trips that involved camping and exploring, and those are still available. Day trips are more popular now, with boats more affordable and comfortable. Both Kayak Connection and Monterey Bay Kayaks see an increase in the number of people - of all ages - falling in love with the sport.

After a couple of classes, more advanced paddlers can journey to see the gray whale migration first-hand. Guided tours go out in winter as the whales pass close to shore during their annual journey.

You don't need to wait until winter to explore the kelp beds just off Cannery Row in Monterey. This ocean paddle takes in seal lions, otters, pelicans and the invertebrates that live in the kelp canopy. World renowned as a diving location, this forest of seaweed and its snails, crabs and fish that dart in between is a great place for kayakers.