The most challenging part of planning a kayak excursion is deciding where to go. If you’re ready for an open water paddling experience, kayaking is an exhilarating way to explore Monterey Bay, offering an incredible perspective of marine wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.

This paddler’s paradise is about a two-hour drive south from San Francisco and the Bay Area. You can’t beat the scenery in Monterey, where the climate is mild year round. Summer mornings can be a bit overcast but calm, which is wonderful for wildlife viewing. The best time of day to paddle is in the morning, when it is usually a little calmer. The late afternoon can be nice as well when the wind dies down, though strong afternoon winds can pickup quickly.

Monterey Bay is sheltered, and the atmosphere is peaceful, making it an extraordinary place for a paddling getaway. A good place to start an exploration is along the Monterey and Pacific Grove shore, from Fisherman’s wharf to Lover’s point. This area is inside Monterey Bay and is calm and protected.  

Wildlife abounds in this remarkable setting. Paddlers can view seals and otters frolicking in the sun and swimming beneath your kayak. Seals can get overly curious and climb up on the kayak decks. If you keep a close eye out, you may catch a glimpse of leopard sharks and bat rays too. Lucky paddlers may see dolphins as they playfully cruise along the shoreline, dancing in the waves. Sea lions perch on rock outcropping and starfish cling to the sides of rocks. Seals have pups in the spring, so avoid paddling too close to minimize disturbance.

Map of Monterey Bay

  
 
 
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