Going to See Sea Otters by Kayak – Elkhorn Slough Part 1

2026年1月25日 Short trip, Nature observation, Birds

In the previous post, I explored Elkhorn Slough by tour boat, but kayak rentals are also available here, allowing you to casually explore the calm estuary on your own. So I returned soon after and tried kayaking.

At Moss Landing, which marks the entrance to Elkhorn Slough, there are two kayak rental companies. This time, I rented from Monterey Bay Kayaks. No reservation was required, and it was nice to simply show up in the morning and rent one on the spot. Since I would be handling camera equipment, I chose an open single kayak. After receiving a life jacket and a brief explanation about restricted areas, I set off.

Paddling a kayak forward, winter, Elkhorn Slough — It had been nearly twenty years since I last paddled, back when I tried sea kayaking. I carried a dry bag just in case, but since my camera was exposed while shooting, capsizing was something I absolutely had to avoid.

After getting somewhat used to maneuvering the kayak, I began photographing. Within the protected area, visitors are reminded not to approach wildlife too closely. Generally, a distance equivalent to about five kayak lengths must be maintained. In reality, however, wind and tidal currents constantly push you around, so maintaining distance requires frequent adjustments.

Marbled Godwit walking along the water’s edge, winter, Elkhorn Slough — The usual mudflat birds. Marbled Godwit.

Whimbrel walking along the shore, winter, Elkhorn Slough — Whimbrel.

Long-billed Curlew standing in the grassland, winter, Elkhorn Slough — There were many Long-billed Curlews.

Group of Willets gathered along the shore, winter, Elkhorn Slough — A group of Willets.

What makes these photos different from my usual mudflat shots is that everything is taken from a low angle on the water. This slightly different perspective makes the images more interesting. I also realized that birds are less wary of a kayak drifting toward them than of someone approaching on foot.