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Moss Landing

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

City

—°7

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Practical info — Moss Landing

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🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

Renting a kayak or taking a pontoon tour in Elkhorn Slough is the best way to see sea otters and harbor seals up close.
Parking near the popular seafood spots can be tight on weekends; arrive early for lunch.
Bring a telephoto lens or good binoculars; the wildlife viewing here is world-class right from the shore.
Dress in easily removable layers, as the cool coastal breeze can quickly turn to warm sunshine.

🍽 Food

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Harbor Area Fisherman's Stew

Join the queue at the iconic seafood market near the beach for generous portions of cioppino.

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Sandholdt Road Oysters

Slurp down local oysters harvested directly from the nearby waters at a harborside cafe.

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Coastal Taquerias

Try some authentic coastal Mexican food, particularly the shrimp tacos, at the local taquerias along Highway 1.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

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Moss Landing Road Antiques

Spend an hour browsing the welcoming, slightly quirky antique stores concentrated along the old main road.

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Fresh Catch from the Docks

Buy a whole local fish or fresh crab directly from the boats when they return to the docks.

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Salinas River State Beach

A wild, windswept beach south of town that is excellent for a solitary stroll and dune exploration.

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Elkhorn Slough Trails

Walk the dirt paths of the reserve away from the water for a silent retreat into oak woodlands and marsh views.

Moss Landing sits at the heart of Monterey Bay and is for nature enthusiasts. The village combines industrial charm with a rich variety of wildlife. In the harbor and the adjacent Elkhorn Slough, sea otters, harbor seals, and countless bird species can be observed at close range. The village also hosts significant marine science institutions. The region's beaches offer rugged beauty: Jetty Beach is located right at the harbor entrance, handy for beachcombing and fishing. Island Beach is another quiet coastal stretch, often less crowded and excellent for relaxation. Both beaches are known for their cool breezes and views of passing fishing vessels. Culinary-wise, Moss Landing is famous for its fresh-caught seafood. Local institutions like Phil's Fish Market draw visitors from all over California. In addition to nature tours and kayaking in the slough, the town features numerous antique shops well-suited for browsing. It is an authentic slice of California coastal history.