Morro Bay is a charming seaside town in San Luis Obispo County with stunning views, plentiful outdoor activities, and a relaxed atmosphere. From its iconic Morro Rock to its picturesque harbor, this small town is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth exploring.
Although Morro Bay is often foggy, especially during the summer, it also has mild temperatures that make it a great place to escape to from hotter locales, like California’s Central Valley and Inland Empire.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Morro Bay such a special destination and share some tips for making the most of your visit.
One thing you’ll want to be aware of is that there are other great towns nearby, like Cambria and San Simeon, where you can add dozens more things to do to your itinerary. I won’t rehash all of those things, but do check out those posts because they are very nearby.
Planning a trip to Morro Bay?
Where to Stay in Morro Bay:
- Anderson Inn – A contemporary boutique hotel on the waterfront (9.8/10 Exceptional)
- Estero Inn – An intimate waterfront boutique hotel in the Embarcadero (9.6/10 Exceptional)
Best Tours and Experiences in Lake Tahoe:
- Private Surf Lesson in Morro Bay – 1:30 private lesson (20 5-star reviews)
- Electric Bike Rental in Morro Bay – explore the coastal city with an electric bike rental
How to Get to Morro Bay
Morro Bay is conveniently located along the central coast, making it easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.
It doesn’t have its own airport, but the closest airport is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), which is about a 25-minute drive from Morro Bay. You can then rent a car to easily get around the area. I always recommend booking through DiscoverCars.com because they collect all the best deals from the big companies.
If you’re driving, you can take Highway 1 or Highway 101 to get to Morro Bay. From Los Angeles, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive, and from San Francisco, it’s about a 4-hour drive.
If you’re taking public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus or the Amtrak train to Morro Bay.
Once you arrive in Morro Bay, getting around is easy. The town is small enough to walk or bike, and the beaches and further afield things are almost all located right along the highway.
Things to Do in Morro Bay
1. Morro Rock
Morro Rock is an iconic landmark that dominates the skyline of Morro Bay. This massive volcanic rock formation rises 576 feet above the ocean and is one of the most recognizable features of the central coast of California.
The rock has a distinctive shape, with a flat top and steep sides that jut out of the water. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, including peregrine falcons, sea otters, and harbor seals.
For visitors to Morro Bay, Morro Rock is a must-see attraction. You can view it from several locations around the town, including the Embarcadero, where you can also find shops and restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike up to the top of the rock (with a permit) for stunning views of the coastline and surrounding hills.
Morro Rock is not only a natural wonder, but it also holds significant cultural and historical importance to the local Chumash tribes. It’s a sacred site and is protected under federal law. Visitors are encouraged to respect the rock and its significance to the community.
2. Morro Bay State Park
Morro Bay State Park if one of the best spots to visit in the area because you can really just park your car and do all sorts of things, all mostly within walking distance.
The park has several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the coastline and surrounding hills. The Black Hill Trail is a popular hike that takes you to the top of Black Hill, where you can see Morro Rock and the estuary below.
The park has a long stretch of sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. You can also go kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing in the bay.
Morro Bay State Park is a popular spot for birdwatchers, as it’s home to over 200 species of birds. You can spot shorebirds, raptors, and waterfowl in the park’s estuary and wetlands.
The park also has a campground near the marina with over 120 locations you can pitch your tent in, along with parking, so you have your car nearby. Every site has public bathrooms and showers available 24/7.
3. Museum of Natural History
Address: 60 State Park Rd, Morro Bay, CA 93442
The Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History is a fascinating museum that offers a variety of exhibits and activities.
The museum has exhibits on the geology, flora, and fauna of the central coast of California. You can learn about the unique ecosystems of Morro Bay and the surrounding hills, and see specimens of local plants and animals.
It also has exhibits on the Chumash people who lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlement. You can see artifacts from their culture, including baskets, tools, and artwork.
For the kids, there are several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to touch and explore the natural world. You can touch a live snake, see live insects, and explore a tide pool simulation.
4. Morro Rock Beach
Most tourists visiting Morro Bay are there to enjoy the beauty of Morro Rock Beach. You can locate the beach by going straight through Coleman Drive until you reach the central area of the rock. There is a large parking lot there where you can park.
On the right-hand side, the beach is accessible and safe to swim in unless you see any signs with warnings telling you not to do so. You’ll often seen the resident sea otters playing around in the water too.
If you walk along the beach, you will find many dunes to explore, or if you just want to sit and relax, feel free to put your towel anywhere you want.
5. Morro Bay National Estuary
Address: 601 Embarcadero # 11, Morro Bay, California
The Morro Bay National Estuaryi s massive at over 2400 acres in length and has an open connection to the ocean. A significant portion of that area of water is salty, and this landmark is a source of pride to everyone in this community. The best part of visiting the National Estuary is catching a glimpse of the wildlife in their natural habitats.
Employees at the National Estuary supervise the well-being of the watershed, with many other people involved. Anyone going for the first time should see the Estuary Nature Center inside Marina Square. Kayaking tours are also available if it’s something you want to do but prefer to go out with a pro to stay safe.
When you visit the Morro Bay National Estuary, be prepared to see protected wildlife creatures that are slowly decreasing in numbers yearly. Some mammals you can expect to see are otters and sea lions, depending on the time of the year.
6. Embarcadero
Location: Piers 1, 1½, 3 and 5, The Embarcadero; San Francisco, California
The Embarcadero is a bustling waterfront area in Morro Bay that’s popular with locals and visitors alike. This lively street runs along the harbor and offers stunning views of Morro Rock and the surrounding hills.
The Embarcadero is lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs and clothing to jewelry and home decor. You can find unique gifts and keepsakes to remember your visit to Morro Bay.
There are a variety of restaurants and cafes, like Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant and Dutchman’s Seafood House, that offer fresh seafood, burgers, pizza, and more. You can enjoy a meal while watching the boats in the harbor or take your food to go and have a picnic on the beach.
Several companies offer whale watching tours from the Embarcadero. You can see humpback whales, gray whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat.
7. Kayaking Near Morro Rock
You can rent kayaks and paddleboards from several vendors on the Embarcadero and explore the harbor and nearby estuary.
Kayaking in Morro Bay is a popular activity that offers a unique perspective on the town’s natural beauty and wildlife. The Embarcadero is the perfect starting point for a kayaking adventure, as several rental companies are located right on the waterfront.
As you paddle out into the harbor, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of Morro Rock and the surrounding hills. You can explore the harbor’s many coves and inlets, where you might spot sea otters, harbor seals, and a variety of birds.
One of the most popular kayaking destinations in Morro Bay is the nearby estuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. You can paddle through the calm waters of the estuary and see egrets, herons, and other waterfowl. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea otter or two playing in the water.
Kayaking in Morro Bay is suitable for all skill levels, and rental companies offer both single and tandem kayaks. You can choose from guided tours or rent a kayak and explore on your own. Most rental companies also provide life jackets and paddles, so all you need to bring is sunscreen, water, and a sense of adventure.
8. Fishing
Fishing in Morro Bay is a popular activity that draws anglers from all over the world. The Embarcadero is a great starting point for a fishing trip, as several charter companies are located right on the waterfront.
The bay is home to a variety of fish species, including rockfish, lingcod, halibut, and salmon. Fishing charters offer half-day and full-day trips, and most provide all the equipment and bait you need for a successful day on the water.
As you head out into the bay, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of Morro Rock and the surrounding hills. You can cast your line and wait for a bite, or try your hand at several different fishing techniques, including trolling, jigging, and bait fishing.
One of the advantages of fishing in Morro Bay is that the bay is sheltered from the open ocean, making it a great option for anglers of all skill levels. The bay’s calm waters also make for a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.
If you’re lucky enough to catch a fish, many charter companies will clean and fillet your catch for you, so you can take it home and cook it up for a delicious seafood dinner.
9. El Moro Elfin Forest
Address: 103 Santa Lucia Avenue, Los Osos, California
El Moro Elfin Forest is a majestic place with beautiful California Live Oaks almost 100 years old. However, these trees still barely grow passed 20 to 22 feet despite their age. Their growth is stunted like this because they are close to the ocean and thrive in low surroundings.
If you are camping out in the Morro Bay State Park Campground, you are only 3 miles away from this forest which you can drive to or walk to if that’s your preference. In addition, the forest has a boardwalk that is a mile long you can follow, so you don’t get lost.
10. Morro Bay Maritime Museum
Address: 1210 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, California
The Morro Bay Maritime Museum is near Anchor Memorial Park, and it’s hard to miss because a giant Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle stands out like a sore thumb outside the museum. However, since this rescue vehicle is no longer used for missions, it’s been retired, so enthusiasts can come to see it along with a San Francisco tugboat and a Coast guard rescue boat on site.
Everyone who pays to get into the museum can take selfies near the boats and learn about the fascinating history of each one.
11. Golfing
12. Estero Bluffs State Park
Address: Estero Bay, Cayucos, California
Estero Bluffs State Park is located approximately 10 miles from Morro Bay, heading North. It’s a bit out of the way, but it’s the best park on this list, with very few tourists. You will see many areas with cliffs that get you the best views. The beach is flooded with sea stacks, making the park more photogenic.
Adventurers obsessed with hiking and photography will find this park a godsend. It’s easy to find and not too far away from the Pacific Coast Highway. We recommend buying binoculars to get a good look at the wild wife. This park’s opening and closing times are 6 a.m.
Where to Stay in Morro Bay, California on Holiday
High-End Hotel
Anderson Inn is rated really highly on Expedia. It’s a contemporary boutique hotel on the waterfront. The design was inspired by the natural elements of sand, sea, and sky. The Anderson Inn is beautifully unpretentious, a reflection of our guest’s sophistication, good taste and lifestyle.
Address: 897 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA
Mid-Range Hotels
The Estero Inn is near Morro Bay Embarcadero and will offer you a comfortable evening in a clean hotel. In most cases, your room will have unforgettable views with suites that feel like large apartments.
Other rooms come with private balconies and fully functional fireplaces. Lastly, this Inn is in the ideal location, giving you easy access to all the things to do on this list.
Address: 501 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA
Budget-Friendly Hotels
The Fireside Inn gives you a clean room at an affordable rate. The casual atmosphere and staff members are well-known for providing excellent customer service. Every room in the hotel has either a full-size bed or a queen, along with small but private balconies.
Also, the sheets are a high-thread count for extra warmth, and there is a cable package with over 100 channels. Although it’s not the best in town, the Wi-Fi is free but a little bit slow sometimes.
Address: 730 Morro Ave, Morro Bay, CA
Conclusion
If you are looking for a quiet place with beautiful sites to run away to for a weekend, Morro Bay is the place for you. We hope this guide gives you an idea of the places you can visit and the highly rated hotels you can choose for a good night’s sleep.
Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.