Beaches are a lot like snowflakes. No two are alike. Just the other day, Ruby asked me where I was thinking of taking our out of town visitors while they were here. My answer started out as a joke when I began naming off the different beaches where I wanted to take my friend, as if that was the only thing to do around here. But I quickly realized that I loved them all so much, if I had to pick just one, how could I ever decide?

The Pit* is one of our tried and true surf beaches. Just up the strand from The Rock, but far enough that the crowds in the water don't seem to be as thick. A dirt parking lot hidden off the main road also helps keep down on the tourist traffic. A big soft sandy beach stretch, beach break waves, lots of birds, and close to home. When the wind dies down, and the waves aren't too big, the girls and I can be found here.

*The Pit is not the technical name of this beach, just the name of the surf break. It is technically the southern end of Morro Strand Beach.

Our routine usually consists of eating our breakfast fast as can be, texting a friend or two to tell them where they can find us, making sure all wetsuits and surfboards are in the car (which they usually are because that's where they live), packing some water and sunscreen and out the door by nine. We put our wetsuits on in the parking lot, walk across the hot sand, surf and play for as long as the waves are fun, and back home again for lunch, and possibly an afternoon reading time on the front porch.

For a list of other beaches in Morro Bay, check out CaliforniaBeaches.com

For other Morro Bay Beach Information such as safety and regulations you may want to have a look at the City of Morro Bay's website.

You can look at it all day long, but one of these days you won't be able to resist getting in. Morro Bay is such a great town to come visit. The beaches and waterfront activities are such a relaxing way to spend the day. But there's just something about actually getting into the water that takes your experience to the next level.

Not only are the views great from the water, you'll also get an up close visit with some true locals. Cormorants, Egrets, Herons, White Pelicans, Otters, Sea Lions, Bat Rays, and who know what else, all call Morro Bay home.

There are many kayak rental shops in Morro Bay. I prefer The Kayak Shack, it's easy to find parking and is in the back part of the bay, which is my favorite part. Another great rental shop is Kayak Horizons, they have better winter hours.

If you're going out with kids, get a double kayak to share, one adult per kid. Best to have the adult in the back of the canoe to steer and paddle, while the kid can ride up front to help with the paddling as they are able.

Here are some tips for enjoying your kayak exploration in Morro Bay

Pay Attention to the Tides

As the tide comes in, the water will be flowing from the harbour mouth towards the back of the bay, and the opposite direction when the tide goes out. Keep this natural current in mind as you are navigating your course and use it to your advantage. It is much easier to paddle with the current than against it. Keeping track of the tide can also keep you from getting stuck in the mud when the tide goes out. It can get very shallow very quickly and you don't want to find yourself waiting hours for the tide to bring in enough water to float, or the helicopter to come rescue you.

It Can Get Windy

Keeping track of the weather patterns can be an asset when planning a kayak tour. Often, in Morro Bay, the wind can pick up in the afternoon, which can make for a bumpy ride. It also makes it a more challenging paddle when facing into the wind. But, there are plenty of days when it is still and calm as can be, and just glorious.

Kayaking is Exercise.

If you are not used to paddling, you may be surprised how tired your arms can get. This can be even more so when you have a child in the kayak with you adding extra weight. You and your child companion may get more enjoyment out of your kayak tour if you take many breaks from paddling to just float around and enjoy the scenery. Use the foot rests to help you paddle with correct form, and use those core muscles!

Wear Comfortable Clothes.

Chances are, you won't fall in, but I always like to plan for the worst. Don't wear your rolex, don't bring your phone (unless you can waterproof it), and have a change of clothes ready in the car. Even if you stay in your kayak the whole time, sometimes you get drips of water from paddling and you may get a bit wet.

Sunscreen and Water

Put on plenty of sunscreen and bring your water. Even in the fog (which happens often in Morro Bay) you can still get sun burned, so don't forget to cover up. A sun hat is another great way to keep the sun off you. Water and even some snacks are always a good idea, especially when you've got the kids with you.

Lisa, at The Risky Kids has some more great tips for kayaking with kids in a river.

Coast and Kayak Magazine talks more on safety while kayaking including proper lifejacket requirements.