It’s way easier than you think, and more fun.
There are days when I want total immersion in nature. Other times, I just want to throw a kayak in the water, have an easy adventure and eat a huge burrito after. On some of those days, I head out to Santa Cruz.
The boardwalk area, including the Wharf, offers several launching points for beginning kayakers and paddleboarders, and there are plenty of places to rent equipment.
You’re likely to see sea otters, dolphins, pigeon guillemots, and pelagic cormorants, as well as giant green sea anemone and California mussels. And while poking among the rocks and coves, a paddler is certain to glimpse giant green sea anemone and California mussels.
One thing I can almost guarantee is a close encounter with a California sea lion. Listen for their noisy, honking barks (as opposed to the roar of the Northern, or Steller, sea lion) as you approach the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf. Playful and social, they have even been known to poke their heads onto kayaks.
GOOD FOR Kayaking, paddle boarding — even swimmers. This is a great area for beginners.
NOT SO GOOD FOR Solitude. The pier, the boardwalk, and the beaches in downtown Santa Cruz are popular locations for locals and tourists alike.
YOUR MOM WOULD TELL YOU TO Leave your valuables and electronics that will be damaged by water in the car -– or at least in a waterproof case. Better safe than sorry!
IF YOU’RE LUCKY YOU’LL See dolphins! And, if you’re really lucky, a whale.
YOU SHOULD PROBABLY WEAR A wetsuit, if you’ve got (or can rent) one. Paddling into the wind, you may hit some sea spray. Another alternative is waterproof pants and jackets.
