Kayaking in Monterey Bay

Monterey

Monterey Bay Kayaks (693 Del Monte Ave. 831/373-5357; 800/649-5357 in CA. www.montereybaykayaks.com) rents equipment and conducts classes and natural-history tours.

Santa Cruz

Explore hidden coves and kelp forests with Venture Quest Kayaking (#2 Santa Cruz Wharf. 831/427-2267 or 831/425-8445. www.kayaksantacruz.com). The company's guided nature tours depart from Santa Cruz Wharf or Harbor, depending on the season. A two-hour kayak nature tour and introductory lesson costs $50. A three-hour kayak rental is $25 and includes wet suit and gear. Venture Quest also arranges tours at other Monterey Bay destinations, including Capitola and Elkhorn Slough.