Morro Bay, California is a charming coastal town known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, parks, and vibrant local culture. It is located about 3 hours drive from Los Angeles and about the same distance from San Francisco. Being far enough away from major metropolitan giants, this little town can keep its unique vibe, providing a summer getaway for families, who want to escape big-city crowds yet be able to enjoy first-class food, fun, and amenities.

Things to Do in Morro Bay:

1. Morro Rock

   • The area's most definitive landmark is Morro Rock, which is a 576-foot-tall volcanic plug near the shore. Its nickname is “Gibraltar of the Pacific.” At one time, it was separated from the land by much more water until the construction of the harbor in the 1880s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The rock is quite large and can be seen from miles away in different areas where the view is not obstructed by the hills. Climbing the rock is not allowed, probably for safety reasons. 
   • The presence of the Morro Rock is what makes this town like no other. There is something magical about walking up to go for a walk in the morning and seeing this giant resting by the shore. It inspires a sense of calm and stillness. The rock attracts many landscape photographers to the area. I am one of them and probably have shot this rock more than anyone else from many different vantage points!

Morro Rock and the Stacks- "The Classic" by Jongas click here to buy this art

1. Morro Bay State Park

   • Offers hiking, bird-watching, and a beautiful golf course. The park also includes the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History. Morro Bay State Park is a slightly remote part of Morro Bay next to the marina, but mainly it is surrounded by swampy lands and access to the bay, which offer peace and tranquility to visitors. If you want to get away from crowds and have some alone time, this place might be what you're looking for.

2. Water Activities

   • Enjoy kayaking, sailing, paddle-boarding, or taking a harbor cruise. The calm bay waters are perfect for exploring. There are a few rental businesses that offer equipment for rent, but keep in mind they usually close around 5pm. Therefore plan your day so you are back in time. The bay itself is quite large, plus people like to go across the bay and walk around in the dunes and tend to lose a sense of time, especially during the evening hours. 

"Morro Sunday" Art by Jongas

1. Beaches

   • Morro Strand State Beach and the beach near Morro Rock are great for a relaxing day by the ocean, tide-pooling, and surfing. This is quite large and pretty much the only beach in Morro Bay, where you can spend time enjoying the sun, but also explore the dune area right behind you. It offers a great view of the Morro Rock and invites photography opportunities, especially during the sunrise or sunset.

2. Wildlife Watching

   • Visit the Morro Bay National Estuary to see a variety of birds and marine life. Sea otters, harbor seals, and many bird species are commonly spotted. The best place to see otters is anywhere where there is access to water on Embaracdero st. The otters are quite comfortable around humans and you can see them swim around with babies on their bellies right from the walkway on the waterfront. Sea lions are also plentiful in the bay. You can see them lying in the sun on the docks, buoys in the water, and anywhere else where they can rest and be lazy. You can't miss them usually, especially if there are few of them in one place, for they tend to be pretty loud while playing and communicating with each other.
3. Shopping and Dining

• A waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and Morro Bay galleries. It's perfect for a stroll, dining with a view, or picking up souvenirs. Morro Bay is a coastal town therefore, seafood here is plentiful. There are multiple restaurants in town offering all types of cuisine, as well as drinks and live music. One thing to note is if you're looking for nightlife activities, Morro Bay may not be the right place for you, because most restaurants are closed by 9 pm as the town turns to the quiet hour. 

Dining

1. The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar is Known for its fresh seafood and beautiful views of the bay.

2. Dorn's Original Breakers Cafe is A local favorite for breakfast with a view of Morro Rock.

3. Tognazzini's Dockside Restaurant Offers seafood right on the water, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

4. Kickers Also offers seafood and usually has a variety of fresh oysters to choose from.

5. Tognazzini's Dockside- if the day is nice and you enjoy a more casual kinda vibe, I can't recommend this place enough. Tognazzini's is a grab-to-go seafood restaurant located right on the water. Where you can just get a table on their outside patio. They serve beer, often have live music, a great crowd, and the perfect ocean vibes. You can bring your pet with you as well. 

Lodging 

Hotels in Morro Bay are plentiful. Any app that offers hotels like Hotels.com or booking.com will always have options for you to choose from. The weekends during summertime are the busiest. Therefore you must plan ahead of time. Some of the more peculiar and nicer places you might want to check out are: Inn at the Morro Bay located a few minute's drive from downtown or Inn at Rose Landing, both of which are located right on the water.

"Pacific Glow" Modern Wall Art Panorama

General Travel Tips

• Weather: Morro Bay has a mild coastal climate. Layers are recommended, as it can be cool in the mornings and evenings, even in summer. The weather in Morro Bay is unpredictable. You might be driving to get there in 100-degree heat amid summer, but will have to get a jacket because of the condensation that only stays in Morro Bay area. Always have some warm clothes with you when visiting. 
• Parking: There is ample parking around the Embarcadero and near major attractions, but it can get busy during peak times.
• Wildlife: Respect local wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially from sea otters and seals.
• Local Events: Check out local events and festivals, like the Morro Bay Harbor Festival, and Morro Bay Farmers Market from 2-5 pm every Saturday. Car shows (usually in May) for a fun community experience. As well as three times a year, the city of Morro Bay hosts an art fair called "Art in the Park". This event takes place three times a year on Memorial Day weekend, July 4th weekend, and During the Labor Day weekends. As well as an annual Morro Bay Swap Meet that takes place each year in the month of June.

Enjoy your visit to this picturesque coastal town!