Monterey Bay Kayaking: Otters, Seals and Sea Lions

Paddle among sea otters and seals in Monterey Bay

Kayak rental in Monterey Bay includes a kayak, paddle, life vest, splash gear and dry bag for cameras. You get an orientation on the route and equipment before heading out to see marine mammals and birds. The rental has no time limit, making it suitable for first-time paddlers and experienced kayakers alike.

The experience

You check in at the shop and get oriented on the best route to spot wildlife: otters, seals, sea lions and birds are all out there when the water is calm. The staff walks you through how to maneuver the kayak and stay safe, so even if you've never paddled before, you leave knowing what to do. Splash gear keeps you warmer and drier than you'd expect, and the dry bag means your phone and camera come along without getting soaked.

There's no fixed time limit on the rental, so you paddle at your own pace. Some people spend two hours on the water. Others stay longer if the wildlife is active or the conditions feel right. The route takes you through areas where marine mammals congregate, and the shallow bay makes it easier to spot them than you would from shore. Bring a camera. The dry bag is there for exactly this reason.

What’s included

• Kayak, paddle and life vest.
• splash gear to stay warm and dry.
• dry bag for cameras and phones.
• orientation on the route and equipment.
• wildlife spotting guidance.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day7 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 15:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (18 to 95 years) · Youth (5 to 17 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessiblePets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Adventures By The Sea

Is this one for you?Book this if you have a free afternoon and want to get on the water yourself rather than watch from a boat: the no-time-limit rental and beginner-friendly orientation make it work whether you're trying kayaking for the first time or you already know how to paddle.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (5 to 17 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What wildlife will I actually see when kayaking in Monterey Bay?

Sea otters, seals, sea lions and various birds are common in the bay. The staff orients you on the best route to find them, though sightings depend on the day and water conditions.

Is kayaking in Monterey Bay safe for someone who's never paddled before?

Yes. The rental includes a full orientation on how to maneuver the kayak and stay safe on the water. Splash gear and a life vest are provided, and the bay's calm conditions make it beginner-friendly.

Can I bring my phone or camera out on the kayak?

Yes. A dry bag is included with the rental specifically for cameras and phones, so you can photograph the wildlife without worrying about water damage.

How long can I keep the kayak out?

There's no time limit on the rental. You paddle at your own pace and return when you're ready, whether that's two hours or longer.