Three’s Company on the Water: Paddling Moss Landing’s Triple Sit-On-Top Kayak
4 Hours • Ages 15+
The morning smells like salt and diesel and something older—mud and eelgrass warmed by the sun as the tide pulls itself back toward the sea. A band of brown pelicans wheels low over the channel; a pair of sea otters roll on their backs and chat in high-pitched chirps. You get in a three-person kayak built for company—hips and paddles and conversations nested side-by-side—and suddenly the estuary changes scale: every ripple feels intimate, every birdwatching stop becomes a shared discovery. That’s the promise of the Triple Sit On Top Kayak out of Moss Landing: it turns the logistics of an odd-numbered group into a reason to linger.
Trail Wisdom
Plan around tides
Elkhorn Slough’s currents can be strong in narrow channels—confirm launch and return times with your operator.
Seat placement matters
Put the most confident paddler in the stern to steer, and lighter or less experienced paddlers in the middle for balance.
Protect your tech
Use a small drybag for phones and cameras; a floating camera strap prevents accidental loss.
Keep it quiet and slow near wildlife
Approach animals slowly and give them space—sudden noise or speed can disturb nesting birds and resting mammals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle upstream to smaller side channels at low tide for quiet birdwatching
- •Stop at the eelgrass beds where sea otters often raft together
Wildlife
Sea otter, Harbor seal
Conservation Note
The slough is a fragile tidal ecosystem—stay on water trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out all trash to protect habitat.
Elkhorn Slough has long been a rich resource for the Ohlone people and later a center for fishing and research; it’s now protected in part as a National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory birdwatching, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Unpredictable spring winds, Mudflats exposed at low tide
Spring brings migrating shorebirds and active marsh life; dress in layers for cool mornings and shifting winds.
summer
Best for: Warm water conditions, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Strong midday sun, Increased visitor numbers
Summer is calm and warm with steady conditions—go early to beat crowds and the sun’s glare.
fall
Best for: Sea otter activity, Clear light for photography
Challenges: Cooling temperatures, Occasional offshore swells
Fall offers crisp light and quieter channels; bring an insulating layer for cooler mornings and evenings.
winter
Best for: Stormwatching from the estuary, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Cold, wet weather, Possibility of high winds
Winter paddles can be dramatic; expect colder temps and a higher chance of wind-driven chop—consider postponing in storms.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
PFD (personal flotation device)Essential
Usually provided, but ensure a proper fit for safety and comfort.
Light waterproof jacketEssential
Cuts wind and light spray on the estuary, especially in cooler months.
Drybag for electronicsEssential
Protects phones, cameras, and small items from splashes and brief submersion.
Sunscreen and polarized sunglassesEssential
Reflective water increases UV exposure—protect skin and reduce glare for better spotting wildlife.
Common Questions
What is the minimum age to join?
There’s no universal minimum listed, but note the operator’s special requirement: anyone 17 and under must be accompanied by at least one person over 25.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—this is beginner-friendly. The operator provides a safety briefing and practice before launch.
How physically demanding is the trip?
It’s moderate—expect steady paddling for up to four hours with short breaks; swimmers should be comfortable in open water.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes, PFDs are included with the rental—confirm sizes when you check in.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include sea otters, harbor seals, shorebirds, and sometimes migrating whales near the mouth of the slough.
How do I book and cancel?
Reserve through the operator’s booking page; cancellation policies vary so check the booking confirmation for details or contact the operator directly.
What to Pack
Water bottle (hydration for 4 hours); Sunscreen and sunglasses (reflective glare off water); Lightweight waterproof jacket (wind and spray protection); Small drybag (protect gear and snacks)
Did You Know
Elkhorn Slough is home to one of the largest populations of sea otters along California’s coast and is protected in part as the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 20–30 minutes early for check‑in and gear fitting; park in the designated lot at 2370 Highway 1; bring cash or card for parking/food; download tide tables for the day of your paddle
Local Flavor
After a paddle, walk to Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery for fresh seafood and harbor views, or try the local espresso cart near the launch. For a quieter finish, take a short drive to Moss Landing State Beach for a sunset stroll.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) ~25 miles; Meeting point/trailhead: 2370 Highway 1, Moss Landing; Driving distance from Monterey: ~20–25 minutes; Cell service: patchy on the water—expect basic coverage near the harbor; Permits: none required for commercial rentals but follow estuary regulations and seasonal wildlife closures.
Sustainability Note
Elkhorn Slough is a protected estuary—keep a respectful distance from wildlife, avoid paddling onto mudflats at low tide, and pack out all trash to minimize impact.
Continue Reading
First Waves on the Grand Strand: Surf Lessons in Myrtle Beach
Learn to stand up on your first wave on the Grand Strand. Myrtle Beach’s gentle breaks and experienced instructors make it an ideal place for beginners to get comfortable on a board—and then explore the surf culture that grew around it.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Chasing Cascades: A Half-Day Hike From Asheville to Waterfalls and Wildwoods
In four hours you can move from Asheville's streets into cathedral-like forest and the roar of mountain waterfalls. This guided half-day hike pairs scenic cascades with a certified naturalist to turn scenery into story.
Asheville, North Carolina