Kayaking the Central Coast: Caves, Coves & Kelp Forests

Two things decide most paddles here: the afternoon wind, and in Morro Bay the tide. The four launches below run from the Cayucos beach south to the Shell Beach sea caves. The Morro Bay estuary and the water inside Point San Luis at Avila are the sheltered launches. Cayucos and Shell Beach are open coast, where you read the swell before you go.

Best Launch Spots

What You'll See

Sea otters are most common in the Morro Bay and Avila Beach kelp beds, and harbor seals haul out on rocks all along this coast. Look for great blue herons, snowy egrets and brown pelicans. The kelp sits just below the surface, visible through clear water, and the caves and arches are around Shell Beach and Point Buchon.

When to Go

Go in the morning. The coastal wind usually picks up by early afternoon. Summer and fall are calmest, and spring can be just as good if you watch the forecast. You can see the wind and swell beside the tide on the Port San Luis console.

Tide tip In the Morro Bay back bay, plan around high water, because a low tide can leave you aground on the shallow flats. On the open coast, go into the caves only on a calm day with a small swell.

Rentals & Tours

If you don't have your own gear, these outfitters rent boats and run guided tours:

• Central Coast Outdoors (Los Osos): guided kayak tours on Morro Bay
• Avila Beach Paddlesports: kayak and paddleboard tours and rentals

Safety Tips

Wear a PFD, and tell someone where you're launching, where you're headed and when you'll be back. Keep 100 feet from sea otters and seals, the distance the Morro Bay estuary program asks for; disturbing them is illegal. In Morro Bay, watch for boat traffic in the channel.