Getting Started In Santa Cruz

Thank you.  Definitely aware of the safety difference and am definitely looking for a sit on top. I have been in both and recovery in the sit in is much harder!  I remember it took me a few tries to roll back over, and that was a long time ago, not sure I'd even remember the procedure now.  The cargo stuff is a good point too.

Regardless, thanks for making sure I knew this!

PM sent

Thx.  Think I replied, but I can't find a record in my sent messages(?)

Still figuring out the forum mechanics a bit, let me know if you didn't get a response.

I would suggest starting with a paddle yak. Something light and easy to carry/haul. You’re better off buying a used kayak to start off. Then, if you enjoy the sport, you can upgrade to a better kayak. And now you have a loaner yak for family & friends haha Or just resell it to fund the newer yak (they tend to hold value well). IF you went this route, most of your gear would transfer over to your newer yak too [pfd, paddle, vhf, rod holders]. I don’t know—that’s like super long term planning and probably a good counter-argument against starting with an inexpensive used kayak at first...d’oh!

There are a handful of tandems that also work as single yaks (I have the Wilderness Systems T130 and recently sold my OK Malibu 2xl). I’m not saying that would be ideal, but it would definitely be more versatile for family trips. Both of those tandems weigh less than my Revo 16 and Kraken 13.
In the pre-covid era, the local kayaks shops had their annual used kayak sales around October. That’s normally a great time to get a deal on used kayaks & gear. I’ve bought like 4 used yaks & 1 new yak from Monterey Bay Kayaks. Like any rental shop, inspect the yak or gear before buying it because they get a lot of action. Sometimes Kayak Connection or Adventures by the Sea have similar used kayak sales too...the other local shops.

Good idea on the kayak shops.  I'm getting more sold on a cheaper paddle yak to start.  Our family could likely use 2 eventually (or one and a SUP, or whatever), so it kinda makes sense.

Thanks again everyone for all the good info and advice!

I checked CL and saw some OK Malibu 2’s for $400 in Sausalito. Then I found this...not exactly what you were looking for but it’s a pretty good deal on a 2008 Hobie Revo Adventure for $950. Ok I gotta stop looking at craigslist haha! https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/boa/d/discovery-bay-16-hobie-mirage-adventure/7200783990.html

Thanks!  I saw that hobie, I think I might want something a little shorter for easy truck bed transport, no racks at the moment (though I'm going to get some eventually...)

I appreciate the help.