Elkhorn Slough Safari Natue Tour in Moss Landing, California


by Judy Zimmerman - Date: 2007-04-12 - Word Count: 390 Share This!

All too often, people driving south on Highway One head straight to Carmel or Monterey, bypassing all the North Monterey County coast has to offer.

Salty old Moss Landing, halfway between Santa Cruz and Monterey, is a great place to turn off Highway 1. Moss Landing, 100 miles south of San Francisco, is still one of the busiest commercial fishing ports on California's central coast. It offers a glimpse into coastal life past and present. When the boats come in, the docks hum with activity as the catch is unloaded. And the mighty ocean brings crashing surf to the quaint fishing village's two large sandy state beaches, where walking, surfing, shore fishing and horseback riding are popular beach activities.

For the outdoor adventurer, Moss Landing is the gateway to the Elkhorn Slough, one of California's largest remaining relatively undisturbed coastal wetlands.

One of the best ways to visit this precious natural wildlife habitat is with the Elkhorn Slough Safari, a two-hour guided nature tour on a 27-ft stable pontoon boat that takes you right down the main channel which winds inland for seven miles. With Captain Yohn Gideon's keen eye you won't miss a thing as a naturalist guide offers an educational in-depth look at slough ecology, its fascinating history, and many of the slough's over 200 species of birds.

"The way you involved everyone in reporting and counting the sightings was a great touch, Captain Gideon,"said one of our safari members.

It is one of the best places in the world to see rafting otters. You can watch them playing, feeding by cracking their clam shells and socializing. In addition, harbor seals have an active rookery of newborn pups in the spring and summer months.

No doubt you'll be hungry when you return from exploring the slough. Back in the small fishing village of Moss Landing, a hearty, delicious seafood feast awaits you at Phil's Fish Market and Eatery. A former fisherman, Phil and his family owned Angelo's in Monterey. He features his grandmother's recipes and will share them with you. "It's just good peasant food," says Phil.

Afterwards, a short stroll reveals other hidden treasures in the sleepy village. Over 20 of the old homes, warehouses, and even the red caboose that cluster around the village post office have been converted into antique shops, each with something special to offer.

Call ahead for reservations: 1-831-633-5555
http://www.elkhornslough.com


Related Tags: birding, santa cruz, safaris, otters, wildlife tours, moss landing, cas central coast, monterey

Judy Zimmerman is a 20-year-experienced professional travel writer with specialties in cruising, western U.S. destinations, soft adventure travel, spas and service articles.

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