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visit santa slough

Elkhorn Slough Safari Tour

Destinations, food & drink.

Home to hundreds of species of birds and marine life, the Elkhorn Slough is the remainder of an ancient river valley. The main channel winds seven miles inland, feeding 2,500 acres of rich marsh and tidal flats. Pelicans, herons and egrets, as well as countless fish, sharks, crabs, sea lions and otters call the slough home. There are several ways for visitors to access and explore the Elkhorn Slough, from kayaking to walking trails. 

This is an image of an Eco Tour boat sailing on the Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing at dusk

Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is located at the east end of the Elkhorn Slough, inland from Moss Landing. It is one of many access points to the Elkhorn Slough and is a great first stop when planning your visit to the area.

The Elkhorn Slough Reserve is open Wednesday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Reserve has 6 miles of trails that meander through oak woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. It features a visitor center, picnic areas, and guided walks are offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Entrance is free.

The Elkhorn Slough Reserve is owned and managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The Reserve staff are dedicated to ensuring the health of Elkhorn Slough and its surrounding watershed through research, restoration, and Education.

Elkhorn Slough is a clear favorite with birders. With over 346 species of resident and migratory birds at Elkhorn Slough, it's no surprise why. Elkhorn Slough has rookeries for heron and egrets that become especially active in May. Other species often spotted in Elkhorn Slough are brown pelicans and least terns.

Visitors to the Elkhorn Slough area can bird from the platforms at the Moss Landing Wildlife Area, Kirby Park, along Elkhorn Road, or at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve. Elkhorn Slough Reserve offers an early birding walk at 8:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of every month.

Elkhorn Slough's gentle waters and fascinating flora and fauna make it an ideal spot for kayaking. The main water channel is 7 miles long, and many smaller side channels provide opportunities for exploration. Be aware of the tides, however; that small side channel you're paddling on might disappear quickly at low tide! Respect the local wildlife; stay 200 feet from water mammals at all times.

Elkhorn Slough Reserve is a beautiful hiking spot, with easy, largely flat trails that are perfect for an easy walk. With six miles of trails through marshes, woodlands, and alongside tidal creeks, the Reserve is a great spot for hiking. When hiking at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve, please remain on the trails, both for the wildlife's protection and for your own; the brush in the area contains liberal amounts of poison oak and ticks.

Another spot to walk along the banks of the Elkhorn Slough is Kirby Park. In addition to the boat and kayak launch, and parking area there is a one-mile walking path. Perfect for viewing birds and taking in the sounds.

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Places We Protect

Elkhorn Slough Reserve

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An extraordinary ecosystem providing a key linkage between land and sea.

See the otters of elkhorn slough - live, description.

The Elkhorn Slough is a magical place full of wildlife and beauty. Meandering seven miles inland from the coast in the center of the picturesque Monterey Bay, the Elkhorn Slough harbors the largest tract of tidal salt marsh in California outside of San Francisco Bay.  Estuaries—areas where fresh water meets salt water—are among the most productive habitats in the biological world, able to support many animal species. But they are also among the most endangered. In California, nearly 90 percent have been destroyed. Elkhorn Slough hosts a tremendous diversity of plant and animal life and has been designated a Globally Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society and the American Birding Conservancy. 

Monterey Bay, Central California

More than 5,000 acres, out of a total watershed area of 45,000 acres, have been protected by The Nature Conservancy and a host of partners.

Conservancy History

In 1971, to protect Elkhorn Slough from major development, The Nature Conservancy purchased the first wetlands there for conservation. Public and private partners continued to acquire wetland and upland areas leading to the designation of the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve in 1979.

In September 2012, The Nature Conservancy transferred ownership of the majority of its Elkhorn Slough land holdings (750 acres) to the Elkhorn Slough Foundation for continued management. This was the largest single transfer of conservation lands in the history of Elkhorn Slough and cemented the Elkhorn Slough Foundation as a significant conservation leader and land trust in the central Bay Area.

Prior to this transfer, the Conservancy owned more than 850 acres in the Elkhorn Slough watershed. The Elkhorn Slough Foundation provided on-site management of those lands along with their ownership of 2,800 acres. The Elkhorn Slough Reserve, managed by the California Department of Fish and Game in cooperation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, protects 1,740 acres, and another 728 acres are conserved as the State Moss Landing Wildlife Area. Other conservation lands are managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation, the Moss Landing Harbor District and the Monterey County Parks Department. These combined efforts have conserved more than 6,000 acres of key properties in the Elkhorn watershed.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Map with marker: Elkhorn Slough is one of the premier birdwatching sites in the western United States.

Open in Maps

The Reserve and Visitor Center is open Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm.

Explore our work in this region

What To See: Plants

Elkhorn Slough flows nearly seven and a half miles inland through productive farm fields of brussel sprouts and strawberries, thickets of yellow field mustard, red-stem filaree, and lavender lupine. The slough is a meandering belt of tide flats, tidal creeks, and marshes, all teeming with aquatic plant life. The uplands flanking the slough harbor coastal dunes, grasslands, oak woodlands and rare maritime chaparral with populations of four federally endangered plant species: Yadon's rein orchid, Santa Cruz Tarplant, Monterey Spineflower and Sand Gilia.

What To See: Animals

Elkhorn Slough is the second-largest remaining salt marsh in California, supporting an abundance of invertebrates that provide food for more than 100 species of fish and nearly 300 species of birds. The estuary's ever-changing environment is a nursery to some species, a lifetime home to others, and a water purifier for the coast. On any day, you might spot sea otters hunting the rich waters or, satiated, lounging on their backs. At high tide, sharks swarm in the slough's shallow waters where they feed, breed, and give birth to their young. Five threatened or endangered species are found at Elkhorn Slough: the California brown pelican, California least tern, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, southern sea otter, and American peregrine falcon. Elkhorn Slough is one of the premier birdwatching sites in the western United States.

For more information visit the Elkhorn Slough Foundation website . 

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At Kirby Park, the accessible trail remains closed due to storm damage.

Photo by Sebastian Kennerknecht

A rare & delicate place

Learn more about Elkhorn Slough and the people working to preserve it

A jewel at the heart of the slough

The Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is part of a network of 30 sites around the U.S. that study, protect, and celebrate important coastal ecosystems.

The land trust preserving the watershed

The Elkhorn Slough Foundation protects and restores more than 4,200 acres, from oak woodlands to coastal prairies and endangered wetlands.

What is Elkhorn Slough?

Curving seven miles inland from Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough is one of California’s most important coastal wetlands.

Partners in Conservation

For more than 40 years, a close collaboration between state, federal, and private partners has protected the sensitive ecosystems of Elkhorn Slough.

Together, we manage, study, and safeguard the natural and cultural treasures of Elkhorn Slough and its surrounding watershed.

Working in and around Elkhorn Slough is fun, muddy, rewarding, and dare we say magical at times. See open positions and find out more about what it’s like to work here.

Reach out to connect with us, ask a question, share a story, or let us know how we can help you.

Photo by Kiliii Yuyan

Keep Elkhorn Wild

Give today to preserve the lands and waters of Elkhorn Slough for future generations.

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  • Elkhorn Slough

Kayak Connection

Itineraries

Looking for things to do in Elkhorn Slough and Santa Cruz? We put together a list of fun itineraries that are perfect for families. View itineraries below.

Family Itinerary Elkhorn Slough/Monterey

Book a Family Adventure Tour , perfect for families with small children, at Kayak Connection (11:00 am start) or rent our stable double kayaks to explore the Elkhorn Slough (9:00 am start).

Have lunch at El Torrito on Cannery Row in Monterey for stunning views that won’t break the bank.

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to get up close and personal with otters, jellies, stingrays and more!

Family Itinerary Elkhorn Slough/Aptos

Book a Family Adventure Tour at Kayak Connection or Rent our stable double kayaks to explore the Elkhorn Slough.

Have lunch at Phil’s Fish Market in Moss Landing (there are so many fun things to do in Moss Landing !)

Visit the Forest of Nicene State Park for a magical hike in the Redwoods.

Locals Only Itinerary Elkhorn Slough

Book a morning Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour at Kayak Connection, lunch at the Haute Enchilada, and hike/explore the Elkhorn Slough Foundation at 1698 Elkhorn Rd with stunning, hidden gem views of the Slough and Monterey Bay.

Family Itinerary Santa Cruz – A Weekend Away

Day One : Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, lunch at the Picnic Basket on Beach Street, sunset walk along West Cliff and a visit to the Santa Cruz Surf Museum.

Day Two: Breakfast at Harbor Cafe, Rent Double Kayaks at Kayak Connection for an on the water adventure, lunch at Seabright Brewery, visit the Redwoods at Henry Cowell State Park.

Walking Itinerary Santa Cruz – Park for Free for the Day

Park for Free on Lake Avenue (parking passes available at Kayak Connection).

Book a weekend Wildlife Tour with Kayak Connection and enjoy a guided tour of the Monterey Bay with views of the Walton Lighthouse, Santa Cruz Wharf, kelp beds, Steamer Lane and Natural Bridges.

After paddling, enjoy tacos and a beer at Johnny’s Harborside or walk to Seventh Avenue for the always satisfying Harbor Cafe.

Rent a wetsuit and a boogie board at Kayak Connection to walk to Twin Lakes Beach for some wave action and beach fun or book a sunset wine sail with The Chardonnay.

looking for more ideas?

Contact us and we’ll be glad to provide even more recommendations on how to make the most out of your stay!

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Elkhorn Slough Go There

Santa Cruz Harbor Go There

Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour

visit santa slough

  • Entry/Admission - Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
  • Monterey Bay Eco Tours - Elkhorn Slough Eco Nature Tour, 10932 Clam Way, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA Monterey Bay Eco Tours is located at 10932 Clam Way with plenty of free parking available on site and easy to find. Check in at the booth in the parking lot.
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 32 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

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  • You'll start at Monterey Bay Eco Tours - Elkhorn Slough Eco Nature Tour 10932 Clam Way, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA Monterey Bay Eco Tours is located at 10932 Clam Way with plenty of free parking available on site and easy to find. Check in at the booth in the parking lot. See address & details
  • 1 Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included Join us on a one-of-a-kind, electric-powered catamaran ride for a wildlife tour along one of California's largest tidal waterways. Enjoy a narrated cruise along the Elkhorn Slough, a vibrant and lively wetland located on Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Monterey in Moss Landing. Scan for otters, sea lions, birds and beyond during a cruise through these peaceful waters. Read more
  • You'll return to the starting point

visit santa slough

  • 685artic 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Otter extravaganza Super quiet and eco friendly electric catamaran. Female captain and naturalist guide super knowledgeable and funny and patient with a boat full of birding nerds. Amazing wildlife, tons of baby otters. Just a blast for novices, bird nerds, families. Highly recommended. Read more Written February 11, 2022
  • saratravels2015 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great nature tour Excellent (amazingly quiet!) tour full of sightings: plentiful sea otters (and young), seals, and so so so many (well- described) shore birds. Scenic views even on a brisk November afternoon. Friendly, helpful, knowledgeable staff. Our family had kayaked part of this same route a few days earlier (great fun!) and we found that these on-water experiences are perfectly complementary ! Do both -- if possible:) Read more Written November 18, 2021
  • 892DanielR 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend the tour Very fun and relaxing tour! We had a lot of fun and got to see a lot of wildlife with a good explanation of the species we were seeing. It didn’t feel like a tourist trap and felt the price was fair for the effort put forth. Read more Written July 16, 2021
  • I6125FEericac 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wild life!! Birds! Otters! Seals! This was my Mother’s Day gift to myself & my mom. I’ve kayaked this slough, about 10 years ago & decided that I didn’t want to have hook my mom up to my kayak to get her back out when the wind picked up. It was so great to go so far down into the slough. Bring your binoculars ask Wyatt the naturalist every question you can think off (my 8 year old did) and have a great time. You will see the wildlife you are hoping to see at a distance that isn’t distressing to them. Will book again, definitely. Read more Written May 10, 2021
  • jeffandnt 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A peaceful and educational morning We were fortunate to be the only guests on board today, so we had plenty of opportunity to learn from and talk to Wendy and Helena. They were warm, friendly and great to spend an hour and a half with. We learned about the slough, efforts to protect it, and of course the birds and marine mammals that make the area so special. It’s such a beautiful and calm setting, and it was pretty much just us and some kayakers. Wendy, as captain, skillfully maneuvered us, and was quick to turn off the motor (is that what electric boats have?) when we’d have an otter or sea lion sighting, to give us a better chance to have it come closer. Helena shared interesting information about the amazing variety of birds and other fun facts about the animals. I have a new appreciation for pelicans! In addition to enjoying the physical space of the clean and simple catamaran, we were really glad to support a new tour company that uses an electric vessel. We’d happily go out again with this company when we’re back in the area. Read more Written September 18, 2020

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Debra R

Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour provided by Monterey Bay Eco Tours

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Elkhorn Slough: Early Bird Tour

March 2 @ 8:30 am - 11:30 am pst.

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Amateur and expert birders alike will find a place on the Early Bird Tour! Local guides lead these 2-3 mile walks, sharing the life histories of the birds that call Elkhorn Slough home, and giving tips on identifying species.

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Visiting the Sloughs

From highway one, most of the sloughs are hidden. They wind around farms, fields, and low hills not visible from the highway. Access points are not marked on most maps, which makes them difficult to find. Most are in private ownership, but a few roads cross the many fingers of the sloughs allowing glimpses into their hidden lives.

An excellent source of information on visiting the sloughs is the City of Watsonville's Wetlands and Trails webpage . There you will also find the wetlands trail map shown below. Click on the links below for information on accessing other sloughs that are not accessible from the City's trail system. Watsonville Wetlands Watch is actively involved in the maintenance of the trail system .

In season, you can go on a free Wetlands Alive! tour. Click here for more information .

Wetlands of Watsonville — Maps

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Find out more about the Sloughs and their access points

Hanson Slough

Hanson slough is located west of Highway One and Lee Road. Its upper reaches can be seen from Harkins Slough Road. West of Lee Road it feeds into Watsonville Slough midway between Highway One and San Andreas Road. Unfortunately, it is not readily accessible to the public although acquisition efforts are underway.

harkinsart

Harkins Slough is the largest and most north-reaching slough in the Watsonville system. It receives drainage from Larkin Valley and flows eastward under Highway One, between Buena Vista Road and Airport Boulevard. Here it broadens, often flooding Harkins Slough Road. Gallighan Slough, which is inaccessible, merges into Harkins Slough at a point below the county landfill. Harkins Slough continues south and joins Watsonville Slough east of San Andreas Road. It can be viewed from Harkins Slough Road west of Highway One.

Struve Slough

Struve Slough begins near Pennsylvania Avenue and Green Valley Road, draining behind Watsonville Square Shopping Center and crossing under Mains Street, Harkins Slough Road, and Highway One before joining West Struve Slough between highway One and Lee Road. Struve Slough often floods Lee Road. It can be viewed from any of these roads. The City of Watsonville is planning to install a slough-side walking path.

west-struve-slough

West Struve Slough originates off Airport Boulevard, crossing under Highway One near Harkins Slough Road. It Parallels Highway One and Lee Road along its course to its juncture with Struve Slough. It can be viewed from Harkins Slough Road west of the Highway, and from Lee Road. Visitors can also obtain permission from the California Department of Fish and Game to enter the Ecological Reserve between lee Road and the Highway.

Find out more about the DFG Ecological Reserve in the upper reaches of West Struve Slough.

  • Article "Reflections on Restoring Damaged Land" by Laura Kummerer (.pdf 104KB)
  • List of Native and Invasive Plants On the Reserve (.pdf 54KB)
  • Map of Vegetation and Restoration Efforts (.pdf 1.25MB)

Watsonville Slough

While for much of its course Watsonville Slough appears to be little more than a drainage ditch, it is in fact the backbone of the system that drains the rest of the sloughs. It includes several important wetlands at its upper reaches. From its origin along Ramsay park in Watsonville, Watsonville Slough passes under Main Street and harkins Slough Road and thence under Highway One, Lee Road, and San Andreas Road. It is pumped into the lower, tidal reaches at Shell Road and flows under Beach Road to join the Pajaro River at Monterey Bay. It can be viewed as a ditch paralleling Beach Road to the ocean, and as a tidal slough as it widens at Palm Beach.

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Santa’s Grottos and Experiences in Berkshire

(AD Disclaimer: Berkshire Mummies is working in paid partnership with the businesses marked with *)

Here is a list of Santa’s Grottos in Berkshire this year. More grottos and Santa Experiences will be added to the list as and when venues and retailers share details of them, so do keep checking back. Click on the links below to find out more details about each grotto.

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*Join us at Cantley House for Santa Afternoon Tea on the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st December 2023 for a festive celebration for all the family. Our beautiful 17th century converted barns with real Christmas trees, open fires are the perfect location for a pre-Christmas Festive Afternoon Tea. After you’ve finished your sweet treats head down to Santa’s grotto to visit the big man himself (price includes a gift for each child). £28 per adult and £15 per child. To book call 01189 895100.

Cantley House Hotel

* Santas Chocolate Grotto at Chocolates for Chocoholics , Hurst. In this 45 min – 1 hour experience, once guests receive their magical Christmas passport, they will make and decorate their own Christmas chocolate lollies with Mrs Claus before joining our jolly Elf having fun at the Christmas craft station. Once finished, guests will be able to see Father Christmas and receive a gift. You can even bring your letter to Santa and post them to the North Pole in our magical post box. £25 per child, under 3s ticket also available. Click here to book.

Chocolates for Chocoholics

Santa Experiences

Santa Sessions at The Little Play Lounge . Join us for a Christmassy play lounge session with a special story from a friendly elf and present from Santa! Presents will be given based on your little one’s age, Click here for further details.

Christmas at Odds Farm Park , High Wycombe, 25th November – 24th December 2023. Take a magical stroll to the North Pole and enjoy a personal visit to meet Father Christmas! Click here for more details.

The Panto Express , Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. 25th, 26th November, 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th December 2023. See Father Christmas whilst enjoying a steam train ride and watch a pantomime – all in one amazing Christmas experience! Click here for more information.

Experience the Magic of Christmas at Legoland , Windsor. This festive event transforms the Park into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, snow dusted trees, and of course…a sprinkling of LEGO® magic! From 25th November 2023. Click here for further details.

Father Christmas at Bucklebury Farm, Reading, 27th November – 23rd December 2023. Click here to book.

Naturally Curious Play, Christmas Special in the Woods, YMCA Activity Centre, Padworth, 2nd December 2023, 1.15 – 3.30pm. Click here to book.

Santa at Windsor on Ice, Alexandra Gardens, Windsor, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th December 2023. There is no grotto and Santa is provided free of charge.  He walks around the rink, meeting and greeting children, posing for photos and taking their Christmas lists. Click here for details.

K & A Trust – Newbury Boat Trip – Santa Trip , Newbury. Children enjoy a Christmas story, singing, and plenty of time with Santa during the boat trip which lasts approximately 1 hour. The ticket price includes a present from Santa for children; and the choice of mulled wine or hot drink and a mince pie for adults. Boat trips are at 10am, 12 noon and 2pm on 10th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 21st, 22nd December 2023. Click here for further details.

Mine Pie Specials with Pinewood Miniature Railway Society,  Bracknell. 10th December 2023, 11am – 3.15pm. Click  here  for updates.

Hobbs of Henley Santa Cruises, Henley, 16th, 19th and 20th December 2023. Click here to book.

Meet Father Christmas at Cobbs Playbarn, Hungerford, 18th – 20th December 2023. Click here to book.

Lapland UK , Ascot. Click here to visit the website for 2024 tickets. The website states 2023 has SOLD OUT.

Mrs Claus Experiences

The Eco Elves Tree-Cycle , Eden Shopping Centre, 10am-5pm every weekend in the run up to Christmas, plus daily from 16 th  – 24 th  December 2023. Just £3 plus booking fee per person. Click here for more details.

Santa’s Grotto

Santa at Reading Winter Wonderland , Hills Meadow, Reading. 12th November 2023 – 2nd January 2024. You can see Santa’s reindeers and also visit Santa and receive a gift too. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto Experience at Daniel Department Store, Windsor, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th November 2023, 2nd, 3rd, 16th – 24th December 2023. Click here for details.

Santa at It’s Christmas By British Design, Windsor, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th November 2023 and 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 22nd and 23rd December 2023. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto at Sunninghill Street Fayre, Cordes Hall, 19th November 2023. Book tickets here .

Santa’s Magical Grotto, Beale Wildlife Park, Reading, 24th – 26th November 2023, 1st – 3rd, 8th – 10th, 15th – 17th and 21st – 24th December 2023, 10,30am – 3.30pm. £10 per child (park entry tickets also required). Click here for details.

Santa at Broad Street Mall, Central Square, Reading, 24th November – 24th December 2023. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto at Holme Grange Craft Village Festive Fun Day, Wokingham, 25th November 2023. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto, Squires Garden Centre, Badshot Lea, 25th November – 24th December 2023. Click here to book.

Santa’s Grotto at Dobbies Hare Hatch, from 25th November 2023. Click here for more details.

Santa at the Wokingham Winter Carnival, from 26th November 2023. A free fun day out for all the family. Santa will be there in his grotto too! Click here for more information.

Santa at Ruby’s, Ruby Play Cafe, Sandhurst, 3rd December 2023, 9.30 – 11.30am, 12-3pm, 2.30 – 4.30pm. Click here for information.

Santa’s Grotto, The Square, Camberley, 2nd, 3rd, 16th – 24th December 2023. £2 per child. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto, Hare Hatch Sheeplands, Garden Centre, 2nd – 22nd December 2023. Click here to book.

Santa’s Grotto, Artists Harvest, Wokingham, 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th December 2023. Click here to book.

Santa’s Grotto, The Bottle and Glass Inn, Henley on Thames, 15th December 2023, 4-6pm. In the Tipi. Click here for details.

Father Christmas’ Victorian Winter Grotto, Reading Museum, 16th December 2023. £5pp. Click here for times and tickets.

Santa’s Grotto, The Little Gym Windsor, 17th and 18th December 2023. From 9am. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto at The Boro, Borough Arms, Hungerford, 17th December 2023, 12-4pm. Click here for details.

Santa’s Grotto at Teddy’s Playtown , Slough, 20th December 2023, 3-5pm. Click here to book.

Santas Grotto

Breakfast with Santa

Santa’s Breakfast at Dobbies , Reading and Hare Hatch. From 25th November 2023. Click here for more details.

Breakfast with Santa, Hare Hatch Sheeplands, The Coffee Shop, 3rd – 22nd December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa , Robyns Nest, Warfield, 26th November, 10th December, 17th December, 24th December 2023. Click here for details.

Breakfast with Santa at Dorney Court , Windsor, 2nd December 2022 – 23rd December 2023. Book your table now by clicking here .

Breakfast with Santa, Horse and Groom Harvester, Bracknell, 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 21st – 24th December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa, Foggs, Daniel Department Store, Windsor, 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th – 24th December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa, Play Cafe, East Woodhay Village Hall, 7th, 14th and 21st December 2023, 9.30 – 11am. Click here for details. 

Breakfast with Santa, Stubbings Nursery, Maidenhead, 9th, 10th, 16th – 24th December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa, Ye Olde Leathern Bottel, Wokingham, 9th, 16th, 23rd December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa, Henry Street Garden Centre, Reading, 9th – 23rd December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa at The Oakingham Belle, Wokingham, 16th, 23rd and 24th December 2023, 9-11.30am. Click here for details.

Breakfast with Santa at Dorney Lake , Windsor. 16th and 17th December 2023. Click here to book.

Breakfast with Santa at The Castle Hotel , Windsor, 17th, 22nd and 23rd December 2023. Children can enjoy a festive breakfast with Santa and there is a gift for every child. Click here for more details and to book.

Breakfast with Santa at Seasons Kitchen and Farm Shop, Windlesham, 18th – 20th December 2023. Click here to find out more.

Breakfast with Santa, Robyns Nest, Shinfield, 23rd December 2023. Click here for details.

Brunch with Santa, The Belvedere Arms, Sunninghill, Dates TBC. Click here for information. 

Sunday Lunch or Afternoon Tea with Santa

*Santa Afternoon Tea, Cantley House Hotel, Wokingham, 18th – 21st December 2023. To book call 01189 895100. Find out more here .

Santa Afternoon Tea with The Grumpy Green Villain, De Vere Wokefield Estate, Reading, 3rd December 2023, 1pm. Click here to book.

Afternoon Tea with Santa, Robyns Nest, Shinfield, 3rd December 2023. Click here for details.

Santa Afternoon Tea with The Huggable Snowman and The Snow Queen, De Vere Wokefield Estate, Reading, 10th December 2023, 1pm. Click here to book.

Festive Family Lunch at The Village Hotel , Bracknell, 10th December 2023. Includes a meal, family disco and visit from Santa. Click here to find out more and to book.

Afternoon Tea with Santa, Robyns Nest, Warfield, 10th, 19th, 24th December 2023. Click here for details.

Breakfast with Santa, Hall and Woodhouse, Taplow, 16th, 18th – 21st and 23rd December 2023. Click here for details. 

Afternoon Tea with Santa at The Castle Hotel , Windsor, 17th, 22nd and 23rd December 2023. Children can enjoy a festive afternoon tea with Santa and entertainment. Click here for more details and to book.

Breakfast with Santa, The Swan, Windsor, 22nd December 2023, 8-10am and 10.30am – 12.30pm. Click here for information.

Breakfast with Santa, The King’s Head, Little Marlow, 23rd and 24th December 2023,10am – 2pm. Click here for details. 

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Visit each venue website above to find out more about ticket sales and what’s included, T&Cs, parking and payment details. Check the events are still on before travelling. This post was correct to the best of my knowledge when posted on 05.10.2023. Berkshire Mummies can’t be held responsible if any of the above venues are sold out or events are cancelled. Berkshire Mummies has not tried out all of the above events. Click  here  to view the Berkshire Mummies disclaimer.

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By Berkshire Mummies

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COMMENTS

  1. Visit

    Map & Directions Elkhorn Slough is located halfway between Santa Cruz and Monterey, just inland from the town of Moss Landing. Get Directions ... Online Shop Visit the Elkhorn Slough Foundation online store. Shop. Upcoming Events. ESF Member Walk April 6, 2024. Learn More. Mindfulness Tour at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve. Learn More. ESF Member ...

  2. Elkhorn Slough

    A cradle of biodiversityin Monterey Bay. From oak-covered ridges to tidal salt marsh, Elkhorn Slough and its watershed is a remarkable meeting place between land and sea. Rare habitats for endangered wildlife nestle up against farms, towns, ranchlands, and industries. It's a place to explore, discover, fall in love with, and care for ...

  3. Visit Elkhorn Slough

    KAYAK. Probably the most photographed of adventures at Elkhorn Slough, visitors love to take to the water and experience the slough life by kayak. Otters, seals, loads of birds, jellyfish, and more can be spotted in and around the waters. Sunrise, foggy morning, sunny day or sunset paddles, the Slough is never short on photo ops - just be ...

  4. Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve

    A visit to the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is a great way to find all this out, and much more. Elkhorn Slough is a seven-mile arm of the Monterey Bay located half way between the cities of Santa Cruz and Monterey.

  5. Elkhorn Slough

    This expansive estuary about 25 miles south of Santa Cruz in Monterey County explodes with life, and even better, it's really easy to see it. Kids love clambering aboard a 27-foot open-air pontoon boat with Elkhorn Slough Safari to poke around the slough, learning why sea otters thrive in this protected habitat—meaty clams and other sea-otter favorites thrive here.

  6. Elkhorn Slough, CA

    The Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is located at the east end of the Elkhorn Slough, inland from Moss Landing. It is one of many access points to the Elkhorn Slough and is a great first stop when planning your visit to the area. The Elkhorn Slough Reserve is open Wednesday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

  7. Elkhorn Slough Reserve

    The Elkhorn Slough is a magical place full of wildlife and beauty. Meandering seven miles inland from the coast in the center of the picturesque Monterey Bay, the Elkhorn Slough harbors the largest tract of tidal salt marsh in California outside of San Francisco Bay. Estuaries—areas where fresh water meets salt water—are among the most ...

  8. Elkhorn Slough: Free Tour of the Preserve

    Docent-led tours of the Elkhorn Slough Reserve are every Saturday AND Sunday, at 10 am and 11 am. Tours are on a first-come, first-serve basis - visitors may sign up. Sat 23 March 23 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm PDT ... Visit Santa Cruz County is a private, non-profit corporation, serving as the official visitor marketing entity for Santa Cruz County. ...

  9. Elkhorn Slough: Early Bird Tour

    Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserach Reserve 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville (Royal Oaks), CA, United States ... Visit Santa Cruz County is a private, non-profit corporation, serving as the official visitor marketing entity for Santa Cruz County. Visit Santa Cruz County works to enhance tourism, the visitor experience, and the area economy ...

  10. Elkhorn Slough at Moss Landing, CA

    The Elkhorn Slough is a 7-mile-long estuary and tidal slough located in Monterey Bay, California. Known nationally as a pristine ecological treasure, The Elkhorn Slough spans over 45,000 acres (5,000 of which are protected by The Nature Conservancy) and provides essential habitat for countless species of birds, marine animals, and plants.

  11. About

    About. A rare & delicate place. Learn more about Elkhorn Slough and the people working to preserve it. Elkhorn Slough Reserve. A jewel at the heart of the slough. The Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is part of a network of 30 sites around the U.S. that study, protect, and celebrate important coastal ecosystems. Learn More.

  12. Itineraries for Santa Cruz and Elkhorn Slough

    Visit the Forest of Nicene State Park for a magical hike in the Redwoods. Locals Only Itinerary Elkhorn Slough. Book a morning Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour at Kayak Connection, lunch at the Haute Enchilada, and hike/explore the Elkhorn Slough Foundation at 1698 Elkhorn Rd with stunning, hidden gem views of the Slough and Monterey Bay.

  13. Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour

    Monterey Bay Eco Tours - Elkhorn Slough Eco Nature Tour. 10932 Clam Way, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA. Monterey Bay Eco Tours is located at 10932 Clam Way with plenty of free parking available on site and easy to find. Check in at the booth in the parking lot. See address & details.

  14. Elkhorn Slough Safari

    With a crew of friendly, knowledgable Captains and Naturalists, Elkhorn Slough Safari has been a trusted guide to locals and tourists for 30 years! BOOK YOUR ONLINE RESERVATION . BOOK NOW or call (831) 633-5555. Guest check-in is at our Gift Shop at 7981 Moss Landing Rd. Ste. E.

  15. Upcoming Events

    Elkhorn Slough: Free Tour of the Preserve. February 24 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm PST. Multiple Event Dates (See All) Docent-led tours of the Elkhorn Slough Reserve are every Saturday AND Sunday, at 10 am and 11 am. Tours are on a first-come, first-serve basis - visitors may sign up at the Visitor Center front desk, or call ahead the morning of ...

  16. Upcoming Events

    Visit Santa Cruz County - Find your flow and follow it to Santa Cruz! Come enjoy our Santa Cruz beaches, redwood forests, cuisine, recreation, wine history and culture, and great lodging and dining options. From the ocean to the forest, there is always something ... Elkhorn Slough: Early Bird Tour. March 2 @ 8:30 am - 11:30 am PST

  17. Visiting The Sloughs

    Harkins Slough is the largest and most north-reaching slough in the Watsonville system. It receives drainage from Larkin Valley and flows eastward under Highway One, between Buena Vista Road and Airport Boulevard. Here it broadens, often flooding Harkins Slough Road. Gallighan Slough, which is inaccessible, merges into Harkins Slough at a point ...

  18. Santa's Grottos and Experiences in Berkshire

    Santa's Grotto at Sunninghill Street Fayre, Cordes Hall, 19th November 2023. Book tickets here. Santa's Magical Grotto, Beale Wildlife Park, Reading, 24th - 26th November 2023, 1st - 3rd, 8th - 10th, 15th - 17th and 21st - 24th December 2023, 10,30am - 3.30pm. £10 per child (park entry tickets also required).

  19. Goleta Slough Ecological Reserve

    The Slough's history involves the diking and filling of extensive areas of salt marsh and alluvial fan, the realignment of the Slough's creeks and their channelization, and the destruction of upland habitats within and adjacent to the Slough. The purpose of the reserve is to protect critical coastal salt marsh habitat.