Moss Landing, CA

Travel Guide

A coastal landscape with a river delta, green fields, and a distant industrial facility.
A coastal landscape with tidal flats, a river, and a distant industrial facility.
A marina with numerous sailboats docked.
A whale breaching the ocean surface with a mountainous coastline in the background.
An otter holding a fish in its mouth.

Head to Moss Landing for wildlife encounters, beach strolls, and exploration of nearby natural preserves and charming towns.

Moss Landing is an ideal destination for outdoor and scenery travelers. You can explore Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, where the unique ecosystem supports diverse wildlife. For a day at the beach, Zmudowski State Beach offers an expansive shoreline and scenic views. Additionally, nearby, the Salinas River Dunes Nature Preserve provides a stunning landscape for nature enthusiasts. If you're seeking more activities, consider shopping at Northridge Mall or enjoying a film at Cinemark Century Marina.

Take time to wander the nearby areas, each with its own character. Marina is known for outdoor and beach experiences, featuring spots like Marina Dunes Preserve and East Campus Dog Park. Castroville and Pajaro Dunes are also nearby, recognized for their outdoor and scenic experiences. Each location provides opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the region, making them worth exploring during your visit.

The best time to visit Moss Landing is from June to October, when the weather is mild, mostly dry, and often sunny. During these months, temperatures range from 60 to 63°F, making it suitable for outdoor activities. Demand tends to increase slightly in April and June to July, while the period from October to December is generally quieter, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

4 out of 5
Two Portola Plaza Monterey CA
$183 nightly
The price is $218 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$218 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa resort in Monterey. Enjoy a full-service spa, 2 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (3,772 reviews)
"My only complaint was the bathroom. It was poorly designed- no vanity, just a single sink. Maybe put a table next to sink and shelves above it instead of near the toilet"

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

4.5 out of 5
1 Old Golf Course Rd Monterey CA
$202 nightly
The price is $235 total per night from Dec 1 to Dec 2
$235 total
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Monterey. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,786 reviews)
"My wife and I booked a suite at this location for the Marine Corps ball, which was being held in the hotel’s conference hall. The suite was not ready when we arrived at the assigned check-in time, so the hotel upgraded us to an even larger suite. Our room had an adjoining parlor that included a sectional ..."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

4.5 out of 5
400 Cannery Row Monterey CA
$351 nightly
The price is $405 total per night from Dec 16 to Dec 17
$405 total
Dec 16 - Dec 17
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Monterey. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,724 reviews)
"Staff was very accommodating"

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Bella Notte, a ZenStay Hotel

Bella Notte, a ZenStay Hotel

4 out of 5
21305 E Cliff Dr Santa Cruz CA
Stay at this aparthotel in Santa Cruz. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and Netflix. Popular attractions Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Capitola Beach are located ...
Bella Notte, a ZenStay Hotel
Charming 3-bed home in Carmel-by-the-Sea; Pet Friendly & Near Everything Carmel!

Charming 3-bed home in Carmel-by-the-Sea; Pet Friendly & Near Everything Carmel!

Carmel-by-the-Sea CA
Stay at this vacation home in Carmel. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Monterey Bay Aquarium and Carmel Beach are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (20 reviews)
"Location was walking (albeit a 20 minute walk)distance to restaurants."

Reviewed on Oct 29, 2026

Charming 3-bed home in Carmel-by-the-Sea; Pet Friendly & Near Everything Carmel!
GREAT OCEAN VIEWS, LAST MINUTE DEAL!! BOOK NOW -BEAUTIFUL BEACH HOME!!

GREAT OCEAN VIEWS, LAST MINUTE DEAL!! BOOK NOW -BEAUTIFUL BEACH HOME!!

Watsonville CA
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Watsonville. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Pajaro River Mouth Nature ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (192 reviews)
"Pajaro Dunes was home for a week. The home had plenty of space for all of us. The kitchen was stocked with everything we might need. TVs in every room, beds were comfy and the view is amazing! Started every day out on the deck just watching the ocean waves and whales, dolphins, seals and even a little ..."

Reviewed on Nov 4, 2026

GREAT OCEAN VIEWS, LAST MINUTE DEAL!! BOOK NOW -BEAUTIFUL BEACH HOME!!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Moss Landing attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Moss Landing worth visiting?
Moss Landing is worth visiting for its natural beauty and marine research. Travelers can explore Moss Landing State Beach for coastal views and wildlife, or learn about marine science at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories. Local grocers are also available for self-catering needs.
What is Moss Landing known for?
Moss Landing is known for its significant coastal features, including the popular Moss Landing State Beach and Zmudowski State Beach. Travelers can also explore the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, a key institution dedicated to marine research and education.
What is a good itinerary length for Moss Landing?
A good itinerary length for Moss Landing is one to two days to enjoy Moss Landing State Beach, Zmudowski State Beach, and a whale watching experience. An extended stay of three to four days allows more time to explore the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories and fully immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty. See Moss Landing Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Moss Landing?
Moss Landing offers unique natural beauty and cultural points of interest for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Moss Landing?
To plan your trip to Moss Landing, search for places to stay on Expedia and book your flights and rental car in advance. Consider activities like whale watching experiences or visiting Moss Landing State Beach and Zmudowski State Beach. You can also explore local seafood, Latin American, and Asian cuisine during your visit.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Moss Landing?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Moss Landing by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Moss Landing with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Moss Landing trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Moss Landing?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Moss Landing can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Moss Landing trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Moss Landing trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Moss Landing trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Moss Landing trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Moss Landing?
If it's your first trip to Moss Landing, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Moss Landing hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Moss Landing hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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