Paddling Cannery Row: Kayaking the Kelp Forests of Monterey Bay
Slide into the Monterey Bay kelp forest for an easy, wildlife-rich paddle just off Cannery Row.
Morning in Monterey Bay moves with quiet intention. Fog drapes over Cannery Row like a shrugged-off blanket, and the water breathes in slow, glassy swells. Paddle blades dip, lift, drip—small punctuation marks in the stillness. The kelp forest unfurls just offshore, each frond waving you in, each holdfast anchoring a city of life below the surface. Sea otters roll lazily in the weed, grooming with the posture of royalty, while harbor seals pop up like sentinels, curious but content to let you pass. In a kayak, the bay invites you into its living room.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early for Calm Water
Launch near sunrise to take advantage of glassy conditions before the northwest winds pick up late morning.
Respect Marine Mammal Distance
Stay at least 50 yards from seals and sea lions; stop paddling if they approach. Never block their path to shore.
Use the Kelp as a Wind Buffer
When chop builds, angle into the kelp beds where fronds reduce wave energy and give you a calmer lane.
Dress for Cold Water, Not Air Temp
Layer a windproof shell over quick-dry clothing and wear neoprene booties—Monterey Bay stays cool year-round.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sheltered pocket just inside the kelp line west of the breakwater—often calmer in wind
- •The lee side of the Coast Guard pier for a quick, quiet break on choppy days
Wildlife
Southern sea otter, Harbor seal
Conservation Note
Sea otters and marine mammals are protected; maintain recommended distances and never separate mothers and pups. Pack out all trash and avoid landing on rocks used by resting seals.
Cannery Row boomed during the sardine era of the early 20th century, then reinvented itself after fishery collapse—now centered on conservation and marine science.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calm morning paddles, Kelp forest color
Challenges: Unpredictable showers, Variable wind
Cool temps and bright kelp growth make for crisp mornings; watch forecasts and aim early to dodge wind.
summer
Best for: Family outings, Fog-softened light for photography
Challenges: Heavier crowds, Persistent marine layer and afternoon wind
Expect foggy mornings that often clear by midday; book early slots and be ready for a breezy return.
fall
Best for: Clear skies, Potential humpback sightings offshore
Challenges: Occasional swells, Sunny glare midday
The most reliably calm and clear months; bring polarized lenses and sun protection for bright conditions.
winter
Best for: Quiet bays, Crisp air and fewer boats
Challenges: Cold water, Storm systems and swell
Pick bluebird days between storms for glassy conditions; dress warmly and check marine forecasts.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Neoprene BootiesEssential
Keep feet warm against year-round cold Pacific water during launches and landings.
Windproof Paddling JacketEssential
Blocks chill from fog and breeze common along Cannery Row, especially on the return leg.
Dry Bag (5–10L)Essential
Protects phone, keys, and camera from paddle splash and surprise otter-induced waves.
Polarized Sunglasses with Retainer
Cuts glare to spot wildlife beneath the surface and prevents losing glasses to the bay.
Common Questions
Is this suitable for beginners or kids?
Yes. Calm morning conditions and stable sit-on-top kayaks make this a beginner-friendly paddle. Ages 5+ can ride tandem with an adult.
Do I need a wetsuit?
Not usually for calm, short outings if you’re layered appropriately, but bring neoprene booties and a wind shell. Winter or longer paddles may warrant a farmer-john wetsuit.
What wildlife might I see?
Sea otters, harbor seals, California sea lions, cormorants, pelicans, and occasionally harbor porpoises. Farther offshore in summer/fall, humpbacks may be visible.
Where do I launch?
Typical launches are along Cannery Row near the kelp beds and the breakwater; ask local rental staff for the day’s best entry point and conditions.
What if it’s windy or foggy?
Morning fog is common and usually calm; wind often builds late morning. If conditions turn, tuck into the kelp beds and head back early.
Are permits required?
No permit is required for casual kayaking within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, but all sanctuary wildlife regulations apply.
What to Pack
Wind shell for fog and breeze; neoprene booties to protect feet during cold-water launches; dry bag to safeguard phone and camera; polarized sunglasses with retainer to cut glare and avoid losing them overboard.
Did You Know
The Monterey Submarine Canyon begins just offshore of Cannery Row and is comparable in depth to the Grand Canyon, driving nutrient-rich upwelling that fuels the bay’s extraordinary marine life.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning timeslot for calm water; park in Cannery Row garages to avoid meter time limits; check NOAA marine forecast the night before; bring cash or card for post-paddle snacks along the Row.
Local Flavor
Warm up with clam chowder on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, grab a post-paddle pint at Alvarado Street Brewery, or find a sunrise pastry and espresso along Cannery Row. If time allows, the Monterey Bay Aquarium adds context to what you saw from the cockpit.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Monterey Regional (MRY), with San Jose (SJC) about 1.5–2 hours north. Launches are minutes from downtown Monterey along Cannery Row. Cell service is generally reliable near shore. No permits required for casual paddling, but sanctuary wildlife rules apply; paid parking is common near launches.
Sustainability Note
This coastline lies within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary—pack out all trash, maintain wildlife distances, and avoid landing on haul-out rocks to protect resting seals and otter pups.
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