River mouth lagoon

Length

variable

Time

variable

Access Points

Put-in and take-out Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge

Best flow

0 to 100 cfs at Chualar

Current flow

1970 cfs Above recommended flow Updated April 19, 2024 at 5:32 am

Gear

• Kayaks, canoes, or SUPs

Most of the year except for the wettest months between December and March, the Salinas River doesn't flow to the ocean. Instead, it forms a large lagoon that is part of the Salinas River Wildlife Refuge. The lagoon is about a mile long from the ocean to the beginning of the refuge boundary. You can also continue up river to make a longer loop.

Note that if there is any significant flow, then the river mouth could be breached and you should not attempt going down river.

During the fall and winter the refuge is open for duck hunting, making floating on the lagoon less fun.

Set-up

Park at the Salinas River Wildlife Refuge.

Description

Put-in & take-out

Distance: 0 miles
Driving directions

Park at the Salinas River Wildlife Refuge, and turn right as you pass through the gate. Where the trail meets the river are several use trails that serve as steep launches.