🌤 Weather at Moss Landing State Beach by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 43–69 °F | 52–72 °F | 43–74 °F | 39–63 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Watsonville Wtr Wks, 8 mi away, elevation 95 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Elkhorn Slough Gateway — Beach at the mouth of Monterey Bay’s premier wildlife estuary
Moss Landing State Beach sits at the mouth of Elkhorn Slough — the largest tidal salt marsh on the California coast between San Francisco Bay and Morro Bay. The beach provides access to excellent surfing, fishing, and equestrian riding on the sand. The adjacent Elkhorn Slough is renowned for sea otter viewing, with one of California’s largest southern sea otter populations.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Moss Landing, CA (Monterey Bay) |
| Entry Fee | $8 per vehicle |
| Wildlife | Sea otters (Elkhorn Slough) |
| Activities | Surfing, fishing, horseback riding |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see sea otters here?
Yes! The adjacent Elkhorn Slough has one of the largest sea otter populations on the California coast. Kayak tours through the slough offer close encounters with otters, harbor seals, and hundreds of bird species.
How deep is the Monterey Canyon?
The Monterey Submarine Canyon reaches depths of 11,800 feet (3,600m) — deeper than the Grand Canyon. It begins just offshore at Moss Landing and extends 95 miles into the Pacific. The canyon creates upwelling that brings nutrient-rich deep water to the surface, fueling one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Salinas River State Beach is a short drive away, and Zmudowski State Beach is a short drive away.
🦦 Visit Moss Landing State Beach
Elkhorn Slough gateway — sea otters, surfing, and horseback riding on Monterey Bay.
About Moss Landing
Moss Landing State Beach sits at the head of Monterey Canyon — one of the deepest submarine canyons on the Pacific coast, deeper than the Grand Canyon. This unique oceanographic feature brings cold, nutrient-rich water close to shore, attracting incredible marine wildlife including sea otters, humpback whales, and massive flocks of seabirds. The Elkhorn Slough nearby is one of California’s premier birding locations.
Things to Do
Beachcombing, horseback riding on the beach, fishing, whale watching (humpbacks and orcas June-October), and birdwatching. Kayak tours of Elkhorn Slough offer close encounters with sea otters. The adjacent Moss Landing harbor has excellent seafood restaurants.
Insider Tips
Marine hotspot: Moss Landing sits at the head of the Monterey Submarine Canyon — deeper than the Grand Canyon and teeming with marine life. Pro tip: The harbor is one of the best places in California to see sea otters — dozens float in the harbor year-round. Elkhorn Slough: Adjacent Elkhorn Slough is one of the last undisturbed coastal wetlands in California — kayak among harbor seals, sea otters, and thousands of shorebirds.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round: Sea otters are always present. Fall: Clearest weather and humpback whales. Spring: Gray whale migration and wildflowers. Summer: Foggy but marine life peaks.
Nearby Attractions
Elkhorn Slough — adjacent — has kayaking among sea otters (100+ individuals, one of the densest populations). Moss Landing — adjacent — has antique shops and Phil’s Fish Market (famous cioppino). Monterey — 15 miles south — has the aquarium. Santa Cruz — 20 miles north. MBARI — in Moss Landing — has deep-sea research.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Moss Landing State Beach
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Maximum 6-foot leash at all times; dogs may not be left unattended.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Dogs are prohibited on most state beaches; only beaches specifically designated as dog-allowed permit them (varies by park).
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are generally not allowed in buildings or cabins; overnight campers must keep dogs inside a tent or vehicle at night.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated dog-friendly trails and beaches vary park by park; misrepresenting a pet as a service animal is a misdemeanor.
Are dogs allowed at Moss Landing State Beach?
Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ca.gov. More: California state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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