Monterey Bay is renowned as one of the most scenic areas of the central California coastline, with an extraordinary concentration of wildlife. This wildlife includes an endless wealth of birds, Sea otters and migrating whales. Outstanding beaches, headlands and state parks dot the area: Elkhorn Slough and Moss Landing, the Salinas and Carmel River estuaries, Monterey beach, Pt. Lobos and Julia Pfeiffer State Park in nearby Big Sur, among many. During this exciting weekend we can expect to see Sea otters and Sea Lions as well as pelicans, plovers, herons and egrets, raptors, and many kinds of shorebirds, ducks and songbirds. Eighty to ninety different species of birds, some in great numbers, is typical during a weekend. We meet noon Thurs. at Elkhorn Slough (at Moss Landing, south of Santa Cruz), and the tour ends Sunday in Monterey. It includes a half-day bay cruise for whales and pelagic birds Friday (additional fee). Lodging and most meals are not included in the tour price. We will stay at the Monterey Bay Lodge, very close to the Monterey beachfront. Information on directions and birds will be provided at registration. Excellent wildlife and bird photography opportunities.