Moss Landing is a charming coastal town offering calm estuary kayaking, world-class birdwatching, and seasonal whale watching. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers seeking marine wildlife adventures and scenic biking by Monterey Bay.
Moss Landing is a charming coastal town offering calm estuary kayaking, world-class birdwatching, and seasonal whale watching. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers seeking marine wildlife adventures and scenic biking by Monterey Bay.
Outdoor Adventure in Moss Landing, California
Moss Landing, a quaint coastal town on California’s Central Coast, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts focused on marine and nature-based experiences. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems of Elkhorn Slough and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary while enjoying active pursuits.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Moss Landing, California special.
7.53 miExplore Elkhorn Slough near Santa Cruz, California. Easy kayaking for beginners with opportunities for birding and viewing sea otters. Visit during fall for optimal conditions and fewer crowds.
7.56 miEnjoy camping at Sunset State Beach, just 16 miles south of Santa Cruz. Experience ocean views, sandy beaches, and local wildlife. Ideal for family-friendly beach activities like surfing and birdwatching, with campground amenities including picnic tables and fire rings.
7.89 miCamp at Manresa State Beach in La Selva Beach, CA for scenic ocean views and diverse beach activities. Enjoy camping, beginner-friendly surfing, and wildlife observation. Best experienced in late spring through early fall.
7.513 miEnjoy fishing off Seacliff State Beach Pier in Santa Cruz. With a year-round fish haven thanks to the SS Palo Alto wreck, this historical spot offers family-friendly pier fishing and occasional wildlife sightings. Accessible and scenic, it gets busy in summer.
7.314 miShark Park Santa Cruz offers easy access to coastal shark watching and marine wildlife observation near Seacliff State Beach. Ideal for families and photographers, the site features viewing platforms along calm shores with educational displays, best visited in fall and winter for peak sightings.
8.215 miExplore the Asilomar Coastal Trail in Pacific Grove, CA. This easy coastal hike, part of Asilomar State Beach, offers ocean views, tide pools, and wildlife. Suitable for all skill levels, it's perfect for photography and learning about the area's history.
7.515 miExplore paddleboarding at Capitola Beach, located near Santa Cruz, CA. This easy and beginner-friendly activity offers scenic views year-round. Watch for seals and sea otters while enjoying the vibrant coastal atmosphere. Busy during summer months.
7.216 miTwin Lakes State Beach in Santa Cruz offers a paddleboarding paradise with calm waters, ideal for beginners. Enjoy views of the Pacific and marine life close to Santa Cruz Harbor. Visit year-round but expect summer crowds.
7.816 miEnjoy running along Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, CA. This easy route offers views of Monterey Bay, cool ocean breezes, and vibrant local energy. Popular for running and beachcombing, but can be busy in summer.
8.217 miExperience world-class surfing at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz. Known for its extreme waves and challenging conditions, this iconic spot is perfect for skilled surfers. Enjoy breathtaking views along the drive-in route, but expect busy crowds, especially in summer.
7.517 miExplore over 10,000 acres of redwood forest just 15 minutes from Santa Cruz. Ideal for hikers, this area features varied trails like the 10-mile Aptos Creek Trail. Enjoy lush landscapes and photo ops at Five Finger and Maple Falls. Best visited in spring or fall.
7.517 miExplore the iconic Lighthouse Point in Santa Cruz, CA, renowned for its challenging surfing conditions at Steamer Lane, a coastal coastline with spectacular views. Popular among experienced surfers and spectators alike, the location stays busy, especially in summer.
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12 bookable experiences
Monterey, California
Monterey, California
Capitola, California
Moss Landing, California
Moss Landing, California
City of the location, State of the location
Monterey, California
Moss Landing, California
Moss Landing, California
Monterey, California
Moss Landing, California
Moss Landing, California
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Make the most of your visit to Moss Landing, California with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected public lands.
Moss Landing, California hosts celebrated events showcasing local heritage, outdoor recreation, and regional community gatherings.
Experience the vibrancy and outdoor culture of Moss Landing, California during Elkhorn Slough Coastal Cleanup. Check local schedules and reserve travel accommodations early.
Experience the vibrancy and outdoor culture of Moss Landing, California during Monterey Bay Whale Watch Season. Check local schedules and reserve travel accommodations early.
Experience the vibrancy and outdoor culture of Moss Landing, California during Moss Landing Art and Seafood Festival. Check local schedules and reserve travel accommodations early.
Moss Landing, California is surrounded by pristine national parks, forests, and wilderness preserves offering backcountry trails and scenic recreation.
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge protects vital estuarine and coastal habitats along California’s central coast, offering important opportunities for wildlife observation and environmental education.
Moss Landing Wildlife Area is a vital coastal estuarine habitat in California known for rich birdlife, salt marsh ecosystems, and serene outdoor recreation opportunities such as birdwatching, hiking, and kayaking.
The California Coast Range State Parks protect diverse coastal and inland landscapes along the Coast Range mountains, offering visitors extensive outdoor recreation, from hiking and camping to wildlife watching and scenic overlooks.
Elkhorn Slough is a vital California estuary offering rich opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly birdwatching and marine life, within a unique coastal environment.
Bring layers; coastal weather can be cool and foggy even in summer.
Book whale watching and kayak tours in advance during peak seasons.
Check tide charts for best kayaking and beach exploring times.
Parking near Elkhorn Slough can fill early on weekends.
Respect wildlife and stay on marked paths in protected areas.
Always check local regulations, park permits, trail advisories, and weather forecasts before embarking on any adventure around Moss Landing, California. Respect wildlife and preserve our shared outdoors with Leave No Trace ethics.