Why We Pair Kayaking in Monterey With a Stay Here

Kayaking in Monterey has a way of turning an ordinary morning into something you’ll remember long after you leave. You step into the quiet of the bay, begin to paddle, and before long, the pace of everything shifts.

It’s one of our favorite ways to spend the morning; a few hours on the water can shape the entire day, giving your trip a sense of ease and intention. It’s the kind of experience that fits perfectly into a couple's weekend getaway.

Here’s how to make the most of it, and how to pair it with a stay at Old Monterey Inn.

We like mornings to begin at an easy pace. Before heading out on the water, a good breakfast makes all the difference. Our full gourmet breakfast at 9am, which gives you time to wake slowly and settle into the day.

That slower start is part of the pleasure. You’re not rushing out the door or trying to fit everything in. You can enjoy the morning, get ready at your own pace, and head to the bay feeling refreshed.

Late morning is usually just right for kayaking in Monterey. The light is soft, the air feels fresh, and the bay often stays calm.

A great kayaking morning starts with choosing the right stretch of water. Around Monterey, each area offers a slightly different feel, so the best choice depends on your comfort level and the kind of scenery you want most.

Elkhorn Slough is often our first suggestion for guests who want a calmer start. The waters are more sheltered here, which can make the paddle feel easier and more relaxed. It’s also known for wildlife, so this is a wonderful choice if seeing otters and seabirds is part of the appeal.

This is the spot for classic coastal scenery. Paddling here feels a little more dramatic, with kelp forests, rocky shoreline, and beautiful bay views all around you. It’s a memorable way to experience kayaking in Monterey, especially if you want that iconic waterfront setting.

Lovers Point has a scenic, open feel that many guests love. It offers beautiful shoreline views and a slightly gentler pace than some wider stretches of bay. For couples, it can feel especially lovely and peaceful.

The best fit often comes down to what you want most: calmer water, dramatic scenery, or a peaceful stretch of coast.

What you wear can make a big difference in how comfortable the experience feels. Monterey’s coastline stays cool, even on sunny days, so a little preparation goes a long way.

We usually suggest light layers that you can adjust as the morning warms. A long-sleeve top, a light jacket, and comfortable activewear tend to work well. You may not get fully wet, but a few splashes are always possible.

Footwear matters too. Water-friendly shoes or sandals with a strap make it easier to step in and out of the kayak. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also worth bringing, even if the day starts out overcast.

A little preparation lets you enjoy the bay without distraction.

Some mornings, it’s simply nicer to let someone else lead the way. A guided tour takes care of the details so you can arrive, settle in, and enjoy the experience together.

This is the most popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. This kayak tour paddles through calm sections of Monterey Bay near the kelp forest, often spotting otters, harbor seals, and sea lions along the way. The route passes the aquarium and Coast Guard Pier, and the scenery is especially stunning. With a guide nearby, everything feels easy, well-paced, and quietly immersive.

This tour offers a more tucked-away, scenic experience. You’ll glide through Stillwater Cove, where the water tends to feel calmer, and the views stretch along Pebble Beach. The setting feels quieter and more refined, with glimpses of the coastline and a slower rhythm overall. It’s a lovely choice if you’re drawn to something a little more peaceful.

We usually suggest a guided option if it’s your first time kayaking in Monterey or if you’d rather not handle the details. It’s an easy way to stay present and enjoy the morning together.

One of the best parts of being on the water here is what you’ll see along the way. Monterey Bay is full of life, and it often feels like it appears when you least expect it.

Sea otters are usually the first to catch your attention. You might spot them floating on their backs, drifting through the kelp, or curiously watching as you pass by. Harbor seals and sea lions are just as common, often resting along the rocks or moving through the water nearby.

There’s also a quieter side to it all. Seabirds overhead, the sway of the kelp beneath you, and the gentle movement of the water create a rhythm that feels calm and immersive. For many guests, moments like this become their favorite couples' trip ideas because they feel so simple and shared.

It’s this combination that makes kayaking in Monterey feel so special. You’re not just seeing the coastline, you’re part of it for a little while.

Kayaking in Monterey is easily one of our favorite things to do here. After a morning on the water, the rest of the day should feel just as easy. That’s part of what makes this experience so memorable.

You return a little sun-kissed, a little relaxed, and ready to slow things down. There’s time for a quiet afternoon, a glass of wine, and the kind of calm that settles in naturally here.

If you’re planning a romantic getaway for couples, this kind of day fits beautifully. It feels active and memorable, yet still relaxed enough to leave room for the rest of your stay.

Come back to Old Monterey Inn, settle in, and let the day end as beautifully as it began.

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