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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