Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Monterey Bay Safari’s Elkhorn Slough Otter Tours. Discover the largest population of Sea Otters in California and over 300 species of birds. Book now!
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Monterey Bay Safari’s Elkhorn Slough Otter Tours. Discover the largest population of Sea Otters in California and over 300 species of birds. Book now!
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Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve - This stunning wetland is home to the largest population of Southern Sea Otters in the world and 340 bird species. Our expertly guided tours will reveal all this and more!
Additionally, we provide complimentary binoculars to ensure everyone has an excellent view of the wildlife. - **Moss Landing…
- Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve - This stunning wetland is home to the largest population of Southern Sea Otters in the world and 340 bird species. Our expertly guided tours will reveal all this and more!
Additionally, we provide complimentary binoculars to ensure everyone has an excellent view of the wildlife.
- Moss Landing Harbor - More than just a commercial fishing harbor, Moss Landing Harbor is rich in local charm and home to hundreds of lively Sea Lions. It also hosts several Marine Research institutions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. As we journey to the Elkhorn Slough, you’ll often see their research vessels and impressive technology. Before proceeding, we enjoy pausing at the mouth of Moss Landing Harbor to discuss the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its deep submarine canyon. The Elkhorn Slough is a tidal inlet directly fed by the Monterey Bay, creating a unique relationship and history between these waters. We might even spot Humpback Whales feeding near the shore!

- Trained Naturalist as Tour Guide
- Free use of binoculars during tour
- Complimentary refreshments
- Activities and prizes for kids
- Free street parking along Moss Landing Road
- Trained Naturalist as Tour Guide
- Free use of binoculars during tour
- Complimentary refreshments
- Activities and prizes for kids
- Free street parking along Moss Landing Road
- $12 fee to park in Moss Landing Harbor parking lot. Free with handicap placard.
- $12 fee to park in Moss Landing Harbor parking lot. Free with handicap placard.
Elkhorn Slough is home to the most significant sea otter population in California, and it’s also a habitat for over 300 bird species! For nearly three decades, we’ve conducted insightful boat tours through this wetland and we have a keen understanding of its terrain, history, and wildlife. Our expert Naturalist team are all graduates in Marine Science…
Elkhorn Slough is home to the most significant sea otter population in California, and it’s also a habitat for over 300 bird species! For nearly three decades, we’ve conducted insightful boat tours through this wetland and we have a keen understanding of its terrain, history, and wildlife. Our expert Naturalist team are all graduates in Marine Science and we’re endorsing third party certified Wildlife Stewards, ensuring our practices towards the creatures are always ethical. Our boat provides a perfect platform for spotting wildlife without intrusions and has attracted notable wildlife photographers such as Frans Lanting and Suzi Eszterhas, among others. Our calm journey ensures no instances of seasickness and our safety record is impeccable. Alongside our tours, we run a large Gift Shop / Bookstore that celebrates the Monterey Bay with a nature and science theme. Offering over 600 books, many at a 30-50% discount, our stock also includes clothing, stuffed animals, and mementos.
- Tours typically last an hour and a half to two hours.
- Our minimum age for passengers is 3 years old.
- Weather in the Monterey Bay can vary, so it’s always a good idea to bring layers of clothing.
- There is no restroom onboard, but restrooms are available at our Gift Shop and in the harbor.
- Do not enter “Elkhorn Slough” into your maps app. This will direct you away from our location, and we’ll be unable to delay our departure time if you are late.
- Please arrive 30 minutes before your tour time to check in, and walk over to departure point.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.