We are planning a Wed - Mon trip to CA - which is built around a 2-day kayaking trip on Monterey Bay with a renowned outfitter. Based on the cost of this kayak trip ($400 per person including 1 night lodging at a very basic hotel) and the fact we will only have 4 full days to work with, I'm having second thoughts about boooking. We are flying to San Jose on Tues, and plan to spend time in Capitola, Monterey and Big Sur.

I'm concerned that two days on the water might be too much (and we will want to do other things. It also sounds like from the Board it would be easy just to rent a couple kayaks and go out on our own from Elkhorn Slough or Monterey Bay. For a lot less money!

Thoughts? Thanks!

I took an afternoon kayak trip in Monterey Bay and loved it. I plan to take a 3 day kayak trip in the San Juans this summer. Given your time frame, and so much to do in the area I would probably spend a day kayaking on Monterey Bay, skip the basic hotel and have more time to do other things.

Thanks much for you feedback. We visited the San Juans two summers ago - it was beautiful. Didn't kayak, but camped and island hopped.

You can rent a kayak on Monterey Bay or nearby Elkhorn Slough for approx. $30-35 a day. The cost includes a wet suit and all required equipment. You could set your own schedule (but pay attention to the tides)and have the flexibility to spend as much or as little time out on the water as you like. You might want to check out montererybaykayaks.com for detailed information.

Also check here:
http://www.adventuresbythesea.com/index.html
They rent kayaks at three locations,Cannery row in Monterey,Lovers Point in Pacific Grove,and at Stillwater Cove in Pebble Beach.$30.00 per day with all gear.
Guided tours available for $50.00 per person at PG and Monterey,$75.00 at PB

We have kayaked Elkhorn Slough. You may be amazed how many people bring umbrellas to use as a sail + paddling. Stunning array of bird species.

Monterey Bay has jellyfish, divers, and sea otters as you hug the coastline. Best in the morning, as the winds pick up in the afternoons. Cheap 1/2 day rentals for yaks that you sit on, not in w/apron skirt thing. Includes wetsuit and drybag.

AR