Re: [Paddlewise] visit Santa Cruz

There are two kayak stores in Moss Landing at the mouth of Elkhorn
Slough, both primarily (exclusively?) renting closed deck kayaks.

Monterey Bay Kayaks - http://www.montereybaykayaks.com/info/moss_landing.php
Kayak Connection - http://www.kayakconnection.com/

Elkhorn Slough is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Hopefully the
store will give you details on the marine mammal protection act, which
basically means don't paddle too close to seals on the beach (having
to get in the water stresses them out).

Also, the Slough is tidal and there can be a strong onshore breeze in
the afternoon. Assuming you head inland from one of the above stores,
if the current and wind are against you, it can be a difficult slog
back. Also, be careful about following any side streams if the tide is
dropping - you may have to wait for the tide to lift you back out.

The water is cold year-round, so you if you are a "dress for
immersion" type, be sure to plan on renting a wetsuit (which will be
offered at both stores)

Finally, a word on the weather. You will be visiting during the start
of the rainy season, which means you may encounter some days of gray,
drizzly rain or a pacific storm. Or it might be warm and sunny. Even
if it is warm and sunny, the local microclimates can cause significant
temperature variations. Also, the aforementioned onshore breezes are
typically weaker during the rainy season, although they will be
strongest when the weather is sunniest.

I hope you have a great time,
Mark

On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 8:04 AM, Boog O'Shea <apachedevil_at_gmail.com> wrote:
> Hi, I'm looking for some advice from you Left coasters.  I'll be on a
> business trip to Santa Cruz November 5th.  The following days I'll be
> traveling some, but I'd really like to kayak the Elkhorn Slough.  I'll need
> to rent a kayak and equipment.  Any tips on outfitters or where to kayak,
> what to look for or expect would be greatly appreciated.
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************