As seasoned travelers, we’ve explored many destinations, but Morro Bay on California’s Central Coast has a unique charm that makes it stand out. Nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this coastal gem offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and array of outdoor activities, Morro Bay quickly became one of our favorite spots to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Our visit to Morro Bay is a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re drawn by the natural beauty, the historical intrigue, or simply the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life, Morro Bay offers something for everyone. We always leave feeling rejuvenated, with a deep appreciation for this unique coastal retreat. Here are things to do in Morro Bay to help plan your visit!
ABOUT MORRO BAY
Morro Bay boasts a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Chumash people, who lived in the region thousands of years before European contact. The Chumash were skilled mariners, fishermen, and traders, known for their plank-built canoes, which they used for travel and trade along the coast and among the Channel Islands.
The first European to explore the Morro Bay area was in 1542, followed by the Spanish expedition in 1769. The name “Morro Bay” is derived from the prominent volcanic rock at the entrance to the harbor, named “El Morro” by the Spanish, meaning “the crown.” In 1870, Franklin Riley, a prominent businessman, founded the modern-day town of Morro Bay. The town grew as a shipping port, benefiting from its natural harbor and strategic location.
Over the years, Morro Bay transformed into a popular tourist destination. Renowned for its picturesque scenery, outdoor activities, and the iconic Morro Rock. The harbor became a hub for commercial and recreational fishing, as well as a favored spot for surfing, boating, and wildlife watching.
Today, Morro Bay continues to celebrate its Native American heritage, maritime history, and natural beauty, attracting visitors from around the world to enjoy its unique coastal charm.
VISITING MORRO BAY
Morro Bay is located about 200 miles from both Los Angeles to the south and San Francisco to the north. This prime location makes Morro Bay an ideal stop for those exploring the coastal attractions of California, providing a tranquil retreat with its charming waterfront, natural beauty, and rich history.
Visiting Morro Bay offers tourists a mix of outdoor activities and charming local attractions. One of the most iconic sights is Morro Rock, a 576-foot volcanic plug that stands at the entrance of the harbor. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the Embarcadero, where they will find a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Morro Bay State Park is a must-visit, offering camping, hiking trails, a marina, a museum of natural history, and a golf course with stunning views of the bay. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Morro Bay Estuary is home to a diverse range of bird species and marine life, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and kayaking.
MORRO BAY CLIMATE
When planning a trip to Morro Bay, it’s essential to consider the climate, which is typically mild and temperate year-round. Summers are cool and foggy, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, while winters are mild and wet, with temperatures averaging between the mid-40s and mid-60s Fahrenheit. Visitors should pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, to stay comfortable in the fluctuating temperatures. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for exploring the trails and rocky shorelines. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against UV rays, even on overcast days. Lastly, bringing binoculars can enhance the experience for those interested in birdwatching or spotting sea life.
EATING
Eating in Morro Bay showcases the best of coastal cuisine. The town’s waterfront restaurants serve up fresh, locally sourced seafood, including succulent oysters, tender calamari, and the renowned clam chowder. Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer other culinary delights, Morro Bay’s diverse food scene is sure to impress. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal with a view along the Embarcadero, where you can savor your food while watching the boats in the harbor and the stunning sunsets over the Pacific. In Morro Bay – you pretty much can’t go wrong. Here are a few tried-and-true spots that we love!
TOP DOG COFFEE BAR
Top Dog Coffee Bar has figured out the way to get people in the door – dogs and coffee. But they keep everyone coming back with absolutely delicious coffee and food, mimosas and beer. Each coffee purchase helps rescue dogs, so you know their love of dogs runs deep. Doggos are also welcome in this cafe, which always makes for a fun visit. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and stay from your morning coffee time until afternoon happy hour in the outdoor beer garden.
SCOUT COFFEE
Newly opened in 2024, this trendy coffee shop is bright open and spacious. Start your day at Scout Coffee with a hand-crafted Raw Sugar & Whiskey or Honey Lavender latte and freshly baked pastry. You’ll find tons of outdoor and indoor seating, large community tables, or quieter more personal spaces. While it can’t be considered a chain coffee shop just yet, there are a few other locations sprinkled around the central coast, with Morro Bay being their flagship location. Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio.
UMI SUSHI & SAKE
Umi Sushi in Morro Bay, is a go-to spot for fresh and tasty Japanese food. Serving up a great mix of sushi rolls, sashimi, and classic Japanese dishes. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal. With awesome views of Morro Bay, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike who want some delicious sushi by the sea.
DORN’S BREAKERS CAFE
Dorn’s Breakers is a favorite spot for good food and great views. Creating fresh seafood and American dishes, perfect for any meal of the day. The vibe is cozy and laid-back, and the views of Morro Rock and the bay are amazing. It’s a go-to place for locals and visitors who want a delicious meal in a relaxed setting. Dorn’s Breakers is ideal at sunset for stunning views of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget to try one of their handcrafted cocktails!
DRINKING
Drinking in Morro Bay is a treat for enthusiasts of wine, beer, and cocktails alike. The town boasts a variety of charming venues where you can enjoy locally crafted beverages while soaking in the coastal ambiance. Wine lovers can explore tasting rooms that feature the best vintages from nearby Paso Robles and Edna Valley, renowned for their excellent wines. Beer aficionados will find craft breweries offering a range of unique and flavorful brews, often brewed with local ingredients. For those who enjoy a well-crafted cocktail, the waterfront bars and lounges provide inventive mixes, often infused with fresh, local flavors. Whether you’re toasting to the sunset with a glass of wine, savoring a cold beer after a day of adventure, or sipping a creative cocktail, Morro Bay’s vibrant drinking scene offers a perfect way to unwind.
ABSOLUTION CELLARS
Tucked in along the shops of the Embarcadero, this unassuming tasting room is a must-visit! Absolution Cellars is open daily for walk-ins or appointments, with indoor and outdoor seating. Find incredibly crafted boutique wines boasting vibrant artwork that represents the wine you’re tasting. During your tasting experience, you will learn where each wine was harvested along with the favor profile. You’ll likely end up taking a few bottles with you to go!
SAVORY PALETTE WINE & TEA HOUSE
If you’re still in the mood for wine but need some nosh to go with it, pop in to Savory Palette Wine & Tea House! Walkable from all the shops on the Embarcadero, with outdoor seating and views of Morro Rock. Order up a glass of wine, a charcuterie and cheese board, pizza, and more! The tea house is available by appointment, and can include pots of tea, finger sandwiches, and pastries.
THREE STACKS & A ROCK BREWING COMPANY
In case you haven’t picked up on it yet, Morro Bay is famous for the giant rock, along with three towering smokestacks. These two features give the seaside town its nickname of ‘Three Stacks and a Rock’; and appropriately the name of this local nano-brewery. Three Stacks and a Rock Brewing Company serves up their own beers, guest taps, cider, and delicious bites. Soak up the sun and suds and enjoy the afternoon!
LEGENDS BAR
If you visit Morro Bay and you want to hang with the locals while you sip on something, do it at Legends Bar! Where everyone is welcome and by the end of then night, everyone leaves as friends. It’s like that bar that you think only exists in T.V. and movies – the regulars on their stools, the cool owner, and the fun bartenders – it’s all there.
ACTIVITIES IN MORRO BAY
Morro Bay is a seaside haven with oceanfront coastline, an estuary, and protected bay. There is no shortage of things to do on land or on the water! Here are a few unique activities in Morro Bay that we highly recommend to include in your itinerary! Some activities on our list for next time are kayaking in the estuary and visiting the aquarium!
ELECTRIC BOAT RENTAL
One activity we will do every single time we are back in Morro Bay: the electric boat rental! As people who have zero boating experience, this was the ultimate soft adventure! The first few minutes are a little nerve-wracking but you quickly get the hang of it and then it’s cruisin’ the bay. You get a unique view of Morro Rock and can get up close and feel the scale of how huge it is. But without a doubt, the highlight will be the wildlife! Sea otters floating and playing around you and sea lions sunning out on their floating deck.
Book online or visit their shop on the Embarcadero at Estero Adventures. Boats can accommodate up to 10 people. Dogs are allowed for an extra fee. Make it extra special by bringing snacks and beverages along for your ride!
SIP & PAINT NIGHT
Looking for something you haven’t done before? This is not your standard Sip & Paint night – in the best ways possible! You may be used to one image that all participants use to paint a copy. Not at YSLASH Carocha’s Gallery & Art Studios Sip & Paint! Carocha leads an interactive discussion with a theme for your painting. You’ll use your own creativity and imagination to create a masterpiece, all while sipping at Legends Bar! This an incredible and unique way to spend an evening in Morro Bay, and even better, you leave with your own creation.
Sip & Paint nights are typically hosted on Thursday nights at 8:00-10:00PM. You can also visit the YSLASH Carocha’s Gallery & Art Studios for an open gallery, themed art classes, and so much more!
HIKING
BLACK HILL TRAIL
At the southern end of Morro Bay, is Morro Bay State Park. This coastal state park offers a blend of outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and educational opportunities. Whether you’re looking to hike to scenic vistas, paddle through serene waters, or to enjoy a picnic, there’s a memorable experience for all visitors. One of main attractions of Morro Bay State Park, is Black Hill.
The Black Hill Trail in Morro Bay State Park is a popular hiking destination that offers stunning views! From the main trailhead , the trail is approximately 3 miles round trip. With an elevation gain of around 600 feet, making it a moderately challenging hike suitable for most fitness levels. The trail is a well-maintained dirt path that winds through a mix of coastal scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland. In ideal weather conditions, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Morro Bay, Morro Rock, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding countryside.
The Black Hill Trail is a gem within Morro Bay State Park, offering a blend of physical activity, natural beauty, and serene landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this trail provides a memorable outdoor experience.
MONTAÑA DE ORO STATE PARK
Just south of Morro Bay, located in the town of Los Osos, is another incredibly beautiful state park: Montaña de Oro State Park. Stunning coastal park known for its rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons and hills. With the prominent 1,347-foot Valencia Peak offering panoramic views of the region. Established in 1965, the park derives its name, “Mountain of Gold,” from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife, including bobcats, mountain lions, black-tailed deer, and numerous bird species.
Visitors to Montaña de Oro can enjoy a range of recreational activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and tidepooling. Popular trails include the Bluff Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and the Hazard Peak Trail, known for its challenging ascent and rewarding vistas. The park’s Spooner’s Cove, with its picturesque beach and unique rock formations, is a favorite spot for picnicking and photography.
BEACHES
As with most coastal towns, going to the beach is one of the most popular things to do in Morro Bay! Getting up-close and personal to Morro Rock allows you to truly appreciate how big it is, and why it’s such an icon on the central coast. So if it’s surfing, fishing, or just enjoying a cup of coffee – be sure to visit some of Morro Bay’s amazing beaches! Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach scene with plenty of amenities or a quiet, secluded spot to relax and enjoy nature, there is a beach here that will fit the bill!
MORRO ROCK BEACH
- Location: Adjacent to the iconic Morro Rock at the northern end of Embarcadero.
- Features: A long, sandy beach with stunning views of Morro Rock and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular spot for walking, beachcombing, and enjoying the sunset.
- Activities: Surfing, fishing, and birdwatching. The waves here can be strong, making it a favorite for experienced surfers.
- Amenities: Parking is available near the rock, and there are restrooms nearby.
- Fee: Free access and parking.
MORRO STRAND STATE BEACH
- Location: Extends from Morro Rock Beach to the town of Cayucos to the north.
- Features: A wide, sandy beach that’s perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and playing in the sand.
- Activities: Surfing, kite flying, picnicking, and fishing. The beach is also dog-friendly in certain areas, provided dogs are on a leash.
- Amenities: Picnic tables, restrooms, and a campground for tents and RVs. There are multiple access points along the beach.
- Fee: Free access for day use; camping fees apply for overnight stays.
COLEMAN PARK AND BEACH
- Location: At the south end of the Embarcadero, near Coleman Drive.
- Features: A small beach area with grassy parkland, perfect for family outings and picnics.
- Activities: Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and tide pooling. The beach is calm and shallow, making it great for kids.
- Amenities: Picnic tables, benches, restrooms, and a playground.
- Fee: Free access and parking.
NORTH POINT BEACH
- Fee: Free access.
- Location: At the northernmost point of Morro Bay, near the intersection of Toro Lane and North Point Drive.
- Features: A small, rocky beach with scenic views and access to tide pools.
- Activities: Tide pooling, exploring, and enjoying the scenic views. It’s a great spot for photographers.
- Amenities: Limited facilities, so plan accordingly.
WHERE TO STAY IN MORRO BAY
Morro Bay offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to well-equipped hotels and motels. Many lodgings provide stunning views of the bay and Morro Rock, and are conveniently located near popular attractions and dining options. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are campgrounds at Morro Bay State Park and Morro Strand State Beach, offering a more rustic experience with the added benefit of being close to nature. Vacation rentals are also available, providing the comforts of home with the flexibility for longer stays. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a budget-friendly option, Morro Bay has accommodations that cater to every traveler’s needs. And these are a few of our favorites!
MORRO STRAND STATE PARK
Located at the northern end of Morro Bay is Morro Strand State Beach. While the campground itself feels a bit like a parking lot, you can’t beat the direct access to the beach! You can tent camp, bring your camper van, or RV – with some sites having full hook-ups. Dogs are allowed on-leash at the campground, but no dogs are allowed on the beach. You can however take dogs to the Morro Beach a few minutes away.
MORRO BAY STATE PARK
At the southern end of town, you’ll find Morro Bay State Park. While this has much more of the traditional campground feel, it doesn’t have the proximity to the beach. But from the campground, you can walk to the marina to rent kayaks or enjoy a meal at the cafe. You can also access hiking trails, a museum, and one of our favorite vista points!
456 EMBARCADARO INN & SUITES
The 456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites in Morro Bay is a boutique hotel located on the waterfront, offering modern, comfortable rooms and suites, many with private balconies and stunning views of Morro Bay and Morro Rock. The inn provides complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly accommodations, and on-site parking. Its prime location on the Embarcadero gives guests easy access to shops, restaurants, and water activities, making it a convenient and charming choice for visitors.
THINGS TO DO IN MORRO BAY
Morro Bay offers a wealth of amazing activities that will make your visit unforgettable. This Central Coast gem will draw you in and make you fall in love! No doubt, you’ll want to visit again and again. We hope this list of things to do in Morro Bay gives inspiration and encourages you to find new adventures to do when you visit! For even more inspiration you can check out the Visit Morro Bay website.
EXPLORE THE BEST OF CALIFORNIA
While this article touches on some of the best things to do in Morro Bay, there is still a TON of information about this incredible place that we simply could not pack in to a single article. That’s where our epic interactive map of California comes in handy. Within this map and guide, you will find over 400 points of interest in California with detailed information about each location, cost, seasonality, dog-friendliness, and much much more!
Not much of a planner? No worries! We also have curated itineraries to make the planning process easier for you. And if that isn’t enough, book a call with us or have us create a custom itinerary for you! We are here to help!
