The beach is all that protects the vulnerable inland from coastal hazards such as tidal waves, renegade torpedoes, and ninjas throwing sharpened starfish. Marvel at nature's shuriken barricade with today's Groupon at Edgewater Inn & Suites in Pismo Beach and Slo Coast Kayaks in Avila Beach. Choose between the following options:

• For $105, you get a one-night stay (Sunday–Thursday) in a double-queen or single-king room with a northern coastal view, plus a two-hour kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental for four (up to a $263.10 total value).
• For $149, you get a one-night stay (Friday or Saturday) in a double-queen or single-king room with a northern coastal view, plus a two-hour kayak or stand-up paddleboat rental for four (up to a $263.10 total value).

Edgewater Inn's ocean-view rooms (up to a $163.10 value, based upon four-person occupancy) grant guests creature-comforting amenities such as free WiFi and organic bath products as well as direct access to the beach. Hop back and forth between the surf and the heated swimming pool and spa to compare the anti-aging properties of saltwater and chlorine, then refuel by scarfing down a plate of cookies (baked fresh every afternoon). Hunger is kept at bay in the morning with a complimentary continental breakfast. Lodgers with feline and canine companions can book a pet-friendly room at no additional charge, though they must provide their own tiny swimsuits and paw floaties.

During their stay, parties of up to four guests can man a rented fleet of kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Slo Coast Kayaks (a $100 value). Each group is free to traverse the coast of Avila Beach for two hours in hopes of spotting exotic marine life or a runaway clawfoot bathtub dashing along the shore.

This deal expires on June 30, 2011, so be sure to plan accordingly.