moss landing

So I'm on vacation in Santa Cruz and the family decides to go see the otters at Moss Landing.  I immediately notice that there is a kayak rental place at the boat launch.  Can people launch their own kayaks out and paddle amongst the otters?  Obviously there is a 'safe zone' that would have to be kept, but maybe next year I will bring my Malibu II and float around out there.

Its actually a popular spot for kayakers, its called the Elkhorn Slough. Just type in that name and you will get more info.

you can launch from the same place as the rentals do. Hang a left into the slough and you will see all kinds of birds and sea life.  The otters are almost tame, so just float around and they will go about their business.

There are 2 kayak launch sites in ML.  I recalled they charge a small launch fee at the rental place.

http://baynature.org/articles/web-only-articles/elkhorn-slough-further-exploration

Depending on how adventurous you are, you can ride the tide in, and later ride it out.  Or you can arrange to be picked up by the rental staff and have them pick you up when you get all the way up there.  I htink it was 10 bucks a head or something.