
This post is sponsored by REI but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.
Living in the beautiful Bay Area, great weather brings an abundance of outdoor activities. We are truly blessed to have so much nature in our backyard. I have decided that getting back to nature is one very important way I can set a good example for my children. While they do not always attend all of my outdoor adventures, knowing that Mom is exercising, exploring or simply meditating is an important way to teach them healthy habits for the future.
With that being said, when REI reached out and offered me to go on an outdoor adventure, I could not pass it up! Sea Otters are my absolute favorite animals, so without thinking twice, I chose the Sea Otter Kayak Tour. Let me just tell you that this tour did not disappoint!
I brought my friend Kristin with me on this adventure, which departed out of Moss Landing and took us through the Elkhorn Slough. Our guides, Christy and Allison, were so helpful from start to finish. They were friendly and so knowledgeable about the animals that inhabit the Elkhorn Slough State Marine Reserve.
With some kayak experience, I took the stern (which is the back of the kayak, meant for the more experienced kayaker). This was a little tougher than I thought it would be, and I was actually the only female doing it in our group.
I cannot even tell you how much wildlife we encountered! It was amazing! We saw the most adorable sea otters in their natural habitat. They were eating, playing, sleeping, cuddling and swimming around without a care in the world. I could not believe how close they came to our kayaks! We were coached before-hand by our guides to keep a decent distance from them as to not disrupt them or make them too comfortable around people. Since they are still a protected species who were at one time on the brink of extinction, this was understandable, and everyone respected these rules.
We learned so much about what they eat, their lifespan, and how they became endangered. I was surprised and saddened to hear that the sea otters’ only enemy is humans. Even sharks do not prefer sea otters since their bodies are so small and contain two thick layers of fur. I am so happy to see them protected and flourishing in the Monterey Bay.
This experience REI experience was one for the books! REI has so many more outdoor classes, experiences and excursions to fit every experience level. I am so excited to try more. Becoming an REI member gives additional benefits and discounts. Find out more HERE!
REI has definitely given me a new way to discover not only the outdoors, but my own backyard! In addition, I met new people and became closer with my friend Kristin whom came with me!
We even ended the adventure with a glass of wine and a hug! Cheers to new adventures with REI!
XOXO
Danielle
This sounds a fantastic experience! 🙂 I would love to do this! Beautiful photos, also!
Thank you! It was such a great experience!
What an adventure you have, really cool to get so close with the wildlife and learn about their natural habitat. Truly a great activities, not just for physically but good for learning too. Really admire where you stay. Lastly I enjoy your short video and I spotted two animals fighting in the water, lol. (Probably they are just froliced )
It was beautiful! Those were two sea otters being playful. They really are the happiest and cutest sea animals!
Sounds like tons of fun! I love kayaks and boats in general. Kayak been my first ever thing to use to move myself in water and I am never ever forgetting it. It is still my favorite. So happy for you to have such experience!
Kayaking is definitely becoming a favorite of mine as well! It is a great way to get back to nature!
Wow, that sounds like a nice adventure trip and I can see in all of your photos that you are having so much fun. Cool!
Thank you! I am definitely looking forward to the next one!
How awesome! I love getting out and exploring nature, especially when I encounter lots of wildlife. It’s one of the best feelings in the world to watch creatures do their thing. Very cool.
It was so cool being up close and personal with such beauty!
That looks like fun! I love the Bay Area but I had never really thought of doing anything like that when I visit. Thanks for sharing this with us — I will have to take a look at that the next time I am in the area!
Oh my gosh this looks like so much fun! What gorgeous views right in the middle of nature!
I would love to go Kayaking one day! Such a great adventure!
i used to kayak way back when. this brings back a lot of memories. looks like ya’ll had fun!
Wow this is so cool! I don’t know about being on that little kayak though lol.
Believe it or not, my husband asked me to buy him a kayak for his birthday! I think he would love to go on one of these kayak adventures!
What an incredible day! It looks so beautiful out there and you had a perfect day out on the kayaks!
My heart would definitely be pumping hard if I was in your place. Thats such a breathtaking experience. I always love a wonderful encounter with wildlife. Sadly, can’t do that here in my country since there’s not enough wildlife to interact with anymore.
Wow thank you for sharing such an adventure and the video was such treat to watch!
This looks like such a fun day! What a gorgeous adventure!
I absolutely love kayaking! Your post reminded me I need to go again! Lovely pictures !
Nice to meet you Danielle, I love your blog and your photos are beautiful. Looks as if you had a very adventurous day.
Looks like you guys had an amazing time. Kayaking is fun and it becomes better with a great scenery around. Love the beautiful pictures.
I want to do this! Looks amazing and love every photo!!!