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Elkhorn Slough Safari

7981 Moss Landing Rd. Ste. E, Moss Landing, CA 95039

• Phone (831) 633-5555

Elkhorn Slough Safari is an exciting way to visit Elkhorn Slough. You will see a fantastic variety of wildlife such as playful sea otters, curious harbor seals, sea lions, hundreds of species of birds and so much more. The tour will provide excellent opportunities to view and photograph wildlife close at hand. These boat cruises include an in-depth look at various aspects of slough ecology, fascinating history, and birding in the company of a naturalist guide. Elkhorn Slough is one of California's largest wetlands and part of a National Estuarine Reserve. Relax and enjoy a roomy, stable ride and refreshments on our coast guard certified 27 foot pontoon boat. The boat tour is ideal for couples, families, groups, business retreats, private photography shoots, weddings, and singles. There are special activities provided for children.

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THE EL CAT: AN ELECTRIC CATAMARAN FOR QUIET AND ECO-FRIENDLY TOURS OF THE ELKHORN SLOUGH

One of the best ways to experience the Elkhorn Slough is to take a boat tour. Monterey Bay Eco Tours offers unique electric catamaran tours of the slough aboard the El Cat. The El Cat is a 37-foot, fully electric catamaran that is designed specifically for the calm waters of the slough.

The El Cat is powered by two Elco electric motors that run on 48 volts. This means that the El Cat is completely silent and produces no emissions. This is beneficial for the Elkhorn Slough in a number of ways.

First, the El Cat’s electric motors are much quieter than traditional gasoline-powered boat engines. This means that the El Cat does not disturb the wildlife in the slough. Sea otters are particularly sensitive to noise, and the El Cat’s quiet engines allow visitors to get close to these amazing creatures without disturbing them.

Second, the El Cat produces no emissions. This means that it does not contribute to air pollution in the Elkhorn Slough. Air pollution can harm the wildlife in the slough and damage the delicate wetland ecosystem.

Finally, the El Cat was  made with efficiency in mide not only through Hull design but the building process used a unique process with fiberglass and carbon fiber that reduces waste in the building process

In addition to its environmental benefits, the El Cat also offers a number of other advantages for visitors. The catamaran is very stable and comfortable, and it offers panoramic views of the slough. The El Cat is also equipped with a restroom and a naturalist who can provide information about the wildlife and the natural environment of the slough.

If you are looking for a quiet and eco-friendly way to experience the Elkhorn Slough, the El Cat is the perfect choice for you. Book your tour today and see for yourself why the El Cat is the best way to explore the Elkhorn Slough.

Embarking on an unforgettable voyage into the horizon, aboard the El Cat, as the sun paints the sky with brilliant hues of orange. #SunsetSerenade #SeafaringAdventures #ElCalVoyage

• Monterey Bay Elkhorn Slough
• Most Popular
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Elkhorn Slough Tour

Join us on a one-of-a-kind, electric-powered catamaran ride for a wildlife tour along one of California’s largest tidal waterways. Enjoy a narrated cruise along the Elkhorn Slough.

Sunset Tours on the Elkhorn Slough

Join us on a one-of-a-kind, electric-powered catamaran ride for a wildlife tour along one of California’s largest tidal waterways at sunset.

Elkhorn Slough Tours

Tour one of california’s largest tidal waterways, elkhorn slough tour.

Join us on a one-of-a-kind, electric-powered catamaran ride for a wildlife tour along with one of California’s largest tidal waterways. Enjoy a narrated cruise along the Elkhorn Slough.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

One of California’s Largest Tidal Waterways

The Elkhorn Slough Reserve is the remainder of an ancient river valley on the Monterey Bay, with a main channel winding seven miles inland and feeding tidal flats and marshland.

One of California’s largest tidal waterways, the Elkhorn Slough is a wonderful place to spot wildlife, including hundreds of bird and fish species as well as sea lions, crabs, otters, and even sharks. When spending time in the Monterey Bay area, you can’t miss a visit to this rich waterway .

Spot Wildlife on the Elkhorn Slough

Elkhorn Slough boat tours are a great way to cover the most ground in the area and spot wildlife with tips and information from an onboard naturalist. Of course, if you want to venture out on your own, the Reserve has walking trails and birding blinds, and you can take a kayak onto the waterway as well. Located halfway between Santa Cruz and Monterey, it’s easy to make a quick day trip to the Elkhorn Slough to enjoy the natural surroundings and take a break from more urban landscapes. As one of the top 10 wildlife viewing destinations in the world, you can’t miss a chance to visit and take an Elkhorn Slough tour .

Enjoy peace and quiet aboard an electric-powered catamaran during a narrated tour ! The naturalist on board will point out wildlife, answer questions, and give you important insights into this amazing ecosystem. These tours are fascinating for both adults and children.

Learn more about touring Elkhorn Slough and book your visit online today .

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• Elkhorn Slough

What is the Best Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour?

In this article.

Elkhorn Slough, located in the heart of Monterey Bay, is a nationally renowned ecological treasure. 

Home to California’s largest tract of tidal salt marsh outside of San Francisco Bay, the Slough is home to hundreds of species of marine mammals and birds. 

In this blog, we’ll discuss how to choose the best wildlife tour in the Slough and what makes kayaking such a unique way to experience the area.

Key Takeaways

• Elkhorn Slough, located in Monterey Bay, is one of the most abundant marine habitats in the country.
• Kayaking is a unique way to see the harbor seals, sea otters, and resident and migratory birds in Elkhorn Slough.
• Book a wildlife tour with Kayak Connection to experience the wildlife in the Slough and learn more about the area from our expert guides.

How to Choose the Best Wildlife Tour in Elkhorn Slough

Before you can book a wildlife tour in Elkhorn Slough, you need to find the one that’s right for you. 

Here are a few tips:

1. Consider the kind of wildlife you want to see

While wildlife is present all year round in the Elkhorn Slough , certain species are more active at certain times of the year . 

Sea otters, for example, are active year-round in the Slough, while harbor seals tend to give birth to pups in the spring. 

Migratory birds, meanwhile, fly through the area in the fall and spring. 

2. Think about the weather

Kayaking during the summer can be surprisingly chilly, as our marine layer pulls in cool coastal fog as the inland valleys heat up.  

It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy Nature’s best air-conditioning.  We certainly will have some gorgeous days sprinkled in, and keep in mind that mornings typically are best to beat the afternoon breezes. 

If you ask our staff their favorite time to paddle, it’s a good bet they’ll tell you “Fall.”  October, November, and December bring clear, sunny skies, warm days, and very small crowds as we welcome the migratory birds to the Slough . 

Winter paddling provides excellent opportunities to see wildlife in different conditions and enjoy relative solitude on the water.  Spring can be gorgeous with sunny mornings and the occasional rainy, cloudy day with strong afternoon winds.

In fact, kayaking during the “off-season” usually means fewer crowds and a more private experience – even if the weather is slightly cooler. 

3. Consider who you’re going to tour with

It’s important to match the tour you choose to the group you’re paddling with. 

If you’re kayaking with kids, we recommend choosing an option like our Family Adventure Tour, which is excellent for younger explorers. 

If you’re going out with adults, a work group, or friends, consider the Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour or the Sunset Tour, which are perfect for even inexperienced adults.  

4. Find experienced guides

No matter what kind of Elkhorn Slough wildlife tour you take, invest in a trip led by experienced guides. 

The Slough is a diverse and unique place, and only an experienced guide can help you learn about the area and the animals that call it home. 

If you’re interested in seeing wildlife, going out with an experienced guide guarantees you’ll visit all the best spots. 

Why Kayaking is the Best Way to See Wildlife in Elkhorn Slough 

In the Elkhorn Slough, there are two ways to see animals: from the land and from the water. 

Here are a few reasons kayaking is the best way to see wildlife in the Elkhorn Slough:

1. Kayaking allows you to access secluded areas

Many animals in the Slough, including seabirds, like to hang out in sheltered areas where they can build nests away from trails and roads. This makes it difficult to see them on foot. 

That’s not an issue in a kayak, though. 

Kayaks are silent, maneuverable, non-motorized vehicles that make it easy to find wildlife wherever it is.

Kayaks are also small enough to maneuver into secluded, less traveled areas where wildlife breed, feed, and play and to allow you to experience the peaceful, remote areas of the slough, all from a respectful distance.

2. More photo opportunities

Being in a kayak offers a unique perspective from which to see wildlife. 

Because you’re at water level, observing wildlife from a kayak feels much more intimate and personal than viewing wildlife on foot. 

This is an excellent vantage point from which to take photos, and it can provide some truly once-in-a-lifetime memories. 

If you want to supercharge your photo opportunities, consider booking one of our popular Sunset Tours. These tours take two hours and are perfect for anyone who wants to experience the serenity and beauty of Elkhorn Slough at dusk. 

Paddle through glassy water and enjoy the chance to take photographs of feeding pelicans, foraging sea otters, and other Slough wildlife settling in for the night. 

3. Unique educational opportunities

When you book a kayak tour with Kayak Connection, you’ll go into the Slough with expert guides who are expert naturalists. 

This allows you to learn about all the animals, plants, and birds that live in the Slough and access the real-time education that you can only get from a high-quality wildlife tour. 

Hiking is difficult or impossible for some people. Old injuries ache, young kids get tired, and some people simply dislike it. 

Fortunately, kayaking is easy and comfortable for a variety of people. When you book a wildlife tour in Elkhorn Slough, our experienced guides will outfit you with high-quality kayak gear that fits you perfectly. 

Our kayaks are comfortable and easy to paddle, and the Slough’s calm, protected waters are ideal for inexperienced, beginning, or nervous kayakers. 

Book your Wildlife Elkhorn Slough Tour today!

What Wildlife Will I See on My Elkhorn Slough Tour?

During these tours, you’re guaranteed to see harbor seals, migratory seabirds, and Southern Sea Otters. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of each:

1. Harbor Seals

Harbor seals are some of the many creatures that call the Elkhorn Slough home. They’re common in both the main channel of the Slough, in its mudflats, and along its various sandy beaches.

Uniquely, harbor seals live their entire lives on a single stretch of coastline, b irthing and raising their pups in the same location. The seals are perfectly designed to thrive in California’s chilly waters, thanks to the thick layer of fat beneath their skin.

While harbor seals spend most of their time in the water, they’re known to “haul out” during low tide and sun themselves on sandbars or rock outcroppings. 

Harbor Seals are playful, interactive creatures and some of the most common sights during our Elkhorn Slough wildlife tours. 

2. Migratory Birds

Elkhorn Slough holds the record for the highest number of bird species (116) observed from a single point in one day. 

The area has also been identified as a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Birding Conservancy.

As you kayak through the Slough, you’ll likely see birds like Brown and White Pelicans, Cormorants, Loons, Terns, Osprey, Dowitchers, Black-Bellied Plovers, Willets, American Avocets, Marbled Godwits, and more. 

3. Southern Sea Otters

Southern Sea Otters are widely regarded as the stars of Elkhorn Slough. Playful, curious, and irresistibly cute, these furry mammals have been listed as a threatened species since 1977 . 

Fortunately, the Slough is home to a thriving resident population of Southern Sea Otters. 

During kayak tours in the area, we commonly see groups of sea otters sleeping together, playing, or grooming one another. 

If seeing sea otters is important to you, there is no better place on the planet than the Elkhorn Slough to view them in their natural habitat.

4. Invertebrate Life

The Slough is home to an enormous diversity of invertebrate life that your guides can point out to you.  

Amazing creatures such as colorful nudibranchs, crabs, anemones, sea stars, and the world’s largest slug, the Black Sea Hare, call the Elkhorn Slough home.  

Your guides will be able to pick them out for you and explain the interplay of the ecosystem and how all the animals fit into their roles.

What to Expect on Your Tour

Here’s what you can expect when tour day rolls around:

Getting fitted for rental gear

Before it’s time to hit the water, your guide will get you and every other member of your group fitted for the necessary gear, including a kayak, PFD, paddle, spray skirt, splash jacket, and anything else you’ll need to be comfortable and safe out on the water.

Next, it’s time to hit the water! Paddling a kayak is a pleasant, low-impact workout, and the boats glide silently through the marine environment. 

Since kayaks are quiet and low-profile, it’s possible to observe animals without bothering or startling them. 

Our Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tours last three hours, and no prior kayaking experience is required. 

Real-time education

Your wildlife tour has a built-in itinerary of places you’ll go and routes you’ll paddle according to the day’s conditions, but each of our guides is also an experienced naturalist. 

As you glide through the waters of the Slough, they’ll look for opportunities to educate you and your group about the wildlife, the scenery, and more. 

By the end of the tour, you’ll have a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the Slough and its critical role in the greater ecosystem. 

Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour FAQs

1. how can i best prepare for my tour.

The best way to prepare for your tour is to ensure you’re comfortable. 

While your guide will ensure you have good-fitting, safe kayak gear, we recommend you prepare at home by dressing in moisture-wicking layers (avoid wearing cotton). 

You should also wear sandals or shoes you don’t mind getting wet. You may also want to read about the Elkhorn Slough to learn more about this unique natural environment before you experience it firsthand. 

2. What should I bring on my tour?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and a snack. 

Depending on the weather, you may also want to bring an extra layer, like a fleece jacket or a raincoat. 

3. How long will the tour last? 

Our wildlife tours last approximately three hours, including gear up, from start to finish. 

The Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour, which is our most popular tour, will take you into all the Slough’s best areas for wildlife sightings. 

The Family Adventure Tour, meanwhile, lasts two hours and is designed for families with young children. 

Our Sunset Tours take two hours and are ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. 

Book your Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour with Kayak Connection 

California’s Elkhorn Slough is home to some of the most diverse marine mammals, birds, and plants in the world. 

If you’re looking for a way to experience the Slough, booking a wildlife tour with Kayak Connection is an excellent choice. 

In addition to being a unique outdoor experience that the entire family can enjoy, our wildlife tours are beginner-friendly, led by expert guides, and ideal for individuals or groups who want to ensure a safe, fun, memorable experience. 

Grab your spot today!   Click here to book your Wildlife Tour online!

Author: Jess Grigsby

Since 2012, Jess has co-owned and operated Kayak Connection together with her husband Dave. She is a lawyer, coach, avid kayak enthusiast and mother of two teenage girls. At Kayak Connection, Jess oversees a team of experienced kayak guides who are all CPR certified, with many holding advanced Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certifications. Our team is composed of environmental educators, naturalists and classroom teachers with experience working with all kinds of visitors, from school groups to large corporate teams.

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Bioluminescence Night Paddle Elkhorn Slough~

A Sparkling Night on the Water~ Bioluminescence Kayak in Elkhorn Slough   $90 Adults/$75 Children 14-17 years of age

4 1/2- 5  hours from beginning to end.

Evening in the slough is always so magical and when conditions are favorable, we may witness the extraordinary light show produced by bioluminescent plankton. During the summer and early fall, bioluminescent algal blooms may light up the dark night water with every stoke of our paddle blade. Leaving from Moss Landing, we’ll have a leisurely paddle through Elkhorn Slough before full darkness is upon us. Our trip will begin with a quiet observation of sea otters, harbor seals and sea birds that reside in Moss Landing Harbor. Beginners welcomed. Time Varies with Tides.

Book a private tour or  review our    Local Tour Dates

Book a private tour with 8 or more of your friends, email Kim for details at: [email protected]

8  people~ $130 per person for a private night on the water,    9-10  people ~$115 per person    11  or more  and the above rates apply

Dear Kayakers:

I would like to welcome you to our kayaking adventure in Elkhorn Slough National Marine Estuary. The protected water of the Slough is an ideal place to observe some of California’s finest coastal resources. Sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions and an array of birds can be seen at close range. With 90% of California’s wetlands loss to development, Elkhorn Slough offers a special opportunity to observe a biologically rich and critically endangered habitat.

Plan on meeting at the public boat launch ramp in North Moss Landing Harbor just behind Monterey Bay Kayaks (2390 Hwy One) at TBA. We will be using double sea kayaks which are very stable and easy to use. No previous kayaking experience is necessary. We expect to be back at the launch area by TBA timing varies with tides. Refunds are given when cancellations are made at least 10 days in advance of trip date.

As far as things to bring, here are a few suggestions I can offer:

* Face Mask and hand sanitizer * Dress in layers — Fleece, capilene, silk or wool are good insulators; bring a warm top that can be put on  if cool weather (fog) approaches; a sweatshirt is adequate. * Long pants or shorts – sweat pants that can be rolled up work well; an outer shell of nylon material dries quickly, but jeans get soggy and are not recommended. * Wind breaker or paddling jacket * Footgear – tennis shoes, Teva type sandals or wet suit booties — any style is fine; they will get wet as you wade in to launch your boat. * Hat with visor for sun protection * Water bottle  non disposable * Snack  in a compact lunch bag –take in boat with you * Sunscreen and lip balm * Sun glasses (or prescription glasses) attached with a leash * Binoculars and camera in waterproof bag ( use at your own risk); disposable cameras work well. * Small, compact daypack (optional) * Change of clothes for ride home to be left in car * Flashlight or headlamp

That covers the logistics for you r Bioluminescence Paddle. Refunds are given when cancellations are made at least 10 days in advance of trip date .  A full refund will be given if the trip is cancelled due to inclement weather (high winds or rain; not light mist or fog). Release forms will be discussed and signed before launching our boats. We are looking forward to our special night together in the Slough!

Very Sincerely,

Kim Powell, MRPA Owner, Operator & Naturalist Blue Water Ventures phone & fax: 831-459-8548 www.bluewaterventures.org email: [email protected] 127 Mason St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Follow us on Facebook    or   Instagram

DIRECTIONS TO ELKHORN SLOUGH (NORTH MOSS LANDING HARBOR)

FROM SANTA CRUZ

* TAKE HIGHWAY 1 SOUTH TOWARDS MONTEREY

* TURN RIGHT AT  NORTH MOSS  LANDING HARBOR/ MONTEREY BAY KAYAKS 2360 HIGHWAY ONE you will pass Moss Landing State Beach, then Kayak Connection; it takes about 30 minutes from Santa Cruz; this right turn takes you into Moss Landing North Harbor.

* MOSS LANDING NORTH HARBOR LAUNCH RAMP The public boat launch area is behind Monterey Bay Kayaks (2360 Highway One); park behind MBK in the public boat launch area. When you arrive, you will need to pay your $10 parking fee. Your Blue Water Ventures guides will have your parking permits to leave in your car. You will need $10 cash when you check in with them.

We will be unloading the trailer from a blue toyota sequoia at the boat ramp directly behind Monterey Bay Kayaks in North Moss Landing Harbor.

NOTE as you’re heading south you’ll see the Moss Landing power stacks on the left side of the highway; if you go over the bridge and pass these stacks you’ve gone too far.

Kim can be reached on her cell phone on the day of the trip at: 831-345-2417

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Subject (required) —Please choose an option— General Inquiry Local Tour Baja Whale Camp/Sea Of Cortez Baja Sea of Cortez and Baby Sea Turtles for Women Beluga & Bears Of Churchill Belize Adventure for Women Belize Adventure for Students Big Sur Seals and Morro Bay by Kayak British Virgin Islands Sailing Multi Sport Adventure Cuba - An Educational Adventure For Women Mendocino Sea Caves by Kayak Sierra Wilderness Camp~Loon Lake Tonga Whale Swim Reefs Beaches and Culture Women’s Florida Springs and Manatees Women’s Kayak Camping Adventure Loon Lake

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Blue Water Ventures

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Our Current Tours

Complimentary pride paddle~monterey bay national marine sanctuary by kayak, cuba adventure~supporting the cuban people 2024, hotel based ~ whales,wildlife and culture of baja march 2025, exploring the south pacific ~tonga & fiji whale swims, waterfalls, coral reefs & culture july 2024~women's trip, baja sea safari~ magdalena bay~sea of cortez, check our reviews on yelp, find us on social media.

Naturalist-led field trips and adventures. We specialize in sea kayaking field trips for schools and adventures for women in the Monterey Bay, Baja, Belize, Tonga and beyond.

Contact Info

Phone: (831) 459-8548

Email: [email protected]

Santa Cruz, California

Monday – Saturday:

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday CLOSED

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