Family Field Trip: Kayaking in the Estuary

The Estuary Program takes families paddling on the bay

On the Morro Bay estuary. The Morro Bay National Estuary Program leads a family kayaking field trip on Wednesday, August 12, from 10 AM to noon, putting paddles in hands and families on the water at the hour when the estuary is at its best. Mid-morning is when the fog usually lifts, the water lies flat, and the otters and herons are working, and program staff handles the interpretation while you handle the paddle.

There is no better way to understand the estuary than from a kayak seat inside it. The 2,300-acre bay is a Globally Important Bird Area and the ecological heart of the town, and two guided hours on the water turns all of that from trivia into experience: eelgrass beds under the hull, sandpipers on the flats, and the Rock standing over the whole scene.

Registration is through the Estuary Program’s Eventbrite page, where the launch point and trip details are provided. Dress in layers you can get a little wet in, bring water and sun protection, and register early; the program’s paddling trips are among its most popular, and spots are limited. No paddling experience is needed; the program’s staff cover the basics on shore before anyone touches water.

For more on-the-water outings and family events around the bay, see what is on the event calendar.