Kayaker dies at Montana de Oro State Park

It’s a heavy start to the week for our Central Coast community. According to the *Paso Robles Daily News*, first responders were called to Montana de Oro State Park this past weekend after reports of an adult male kayaker in distress. Despite the quick efforts of crews who performed CPR at the scene, the victim was pronounced dead. While the details remain sparse, any loss of life on our beautiful coastline hits close to home—especially for those of us who love spending weekends on the water at places like Lake Nacimiento or the rugged shores of Morro Bay.

Montaña de Oro is one of those wild, breathtaking stretches where the Pacific meets the bluffs, and it’s a favorite day trip for many Paso Robles families. Whether you’re launching a kayak from Spooner’s Cove or just hiking the coastal trails, the ocean here demands respect. Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones, and it’s a sobering reminder to always check conditions, wear a life jacket, and never underestimate the power of the sea—even on a calm afternoon. Stay safe out there, neighbors.