Destination Morro Bay California
Looking for the perfect weekend get-away destination? Visit the fun and relaxing coastal community of Morro Bay, a small bustling seaside village filled with galleries & gift shops, exciting outdoor activities, and spectacular sunset views from restaurants overlooking the iconic Morro Rock Harbor. Discover Morro Bays scenic location, friendly accommodations, sandy beaches, outdoor adventures, downtown attractions, art exhibits, and fresh seafood.
WHY VISIT? THE ROCK, THE BEACH, GIFT SHOPS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT, RESTAURANTS MORRO ROCK
This 581-foot volcanic plug was once known as the “Gibraltar of the Pacific” and for good reason. Today it is commonly referred to as “Morro Rock” or simply “The Rock.” It is also registered as a historical landmark and bird sanctuary for the peregrine falcon. Take a drive or walk along Coleman Dr. from the Embarcadero before making your way to the Morro Rock Beach for a close-up view.
BEACH FUN
Morro Bay offers up some premium stretches of sand. Choose between the iconic Morro Rock Beach with its massive Rock, Morro Rock Jetty Beach just south of Morro Rock, North Point Beach, Morro Strand State Beach which is divided between the cities of Morro Bay and Cayucos or Toro Creek Dog Beach (the dog-friendly 1-mile-long gap between the north and south sections of Morro Strand State Beach between Morro Bay and Cayucos). You may also enjoy Coleman Park and Beach between the harbor and the rock along with Sandspit Beach, a secluded stretch of sand that may only be accessed by water (paddleboard, kayak, canoe, or boat to access). Morro Rock Beach has quick and easy access and decent parking. Enjoy building sandcastles, collecting shells, birdwatching, dog walking (on leash), photography, or simply watching the surfers hit the waves. Amenities include restrooms and picnic tables.
GIFT SHOPS AND GALLERIES
Morro Bay has a little bit of everything from boutiques to artisan galleries. Most stores are locally owned and offer unique wares. Discover hidden treasures at nearby antique and thrift shops, browse fine art by local artists in one of many art galleries, stock up on surfing gear, experience saltwater taffy (Crill’s Salt Water Taffy, Carousel Taffy), or grab a snack at one of the many corner stores, coffee shops (Morro Bay Coffee Co, Top Dog Coffee Bar, Rock Espresso Bar, Skippers Brew), sweet shops (Kellis Candies), bakeries (Suns-N-Buns Bakery), or supermarket (Albertsons/Starbucks). Take a drive inland to see more of the downtown area filled with specialty shops, antique stores, hotels, and bars with live music.
Art Center Morro Bay
835 Main Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442
(805) 772-2504
The Art Center offers locals and visitors a gallery of fine art to view and purchase along with multiple exhibits. They also offer receptions, art in the park, adult and children’s art classes, demonstrations, workshops, and art scholarships. Visit www.artcentermorrobay.org for more information.
Beads By The Bay
333 Morro Bay Blvd, CA 93442
(805) 772-3338
Discover beads from around the world at Beads By The Bay, the Central Coasts one and only bead and garden shop. Selections include semi-precious stone, glass, Swarovski crystal, seed beads, pearls, wood, bone, shell, and more! Expect to find herbs, succulents, geraniums, both potted and hanging terrariums, supplies, and garden art in the garden nursery behind. www.morrobaybeads.com
THINGS TO DO IN MORRO BAY
There is no shortage of things to experience during your visit. Beach activities, boating, surfing, hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, camping, fishing, and whale watching are just a few of the fun-filled ways you can spend your time in Morro Bay. Looking for a round of golf with multiple scenic views of the ocean? Tee off with your friends at the Morro Bay Golf Course. Take a kayak out for a cruise across the estuary. You might spot some local wildlife (sea otters, sea lions, marine birds, whales). There are less active ways you may spend your time. Visit one of the many parks or sitting areas along the Embarcadero to picnic and watch all the wildlife and activity unfold around you.
MORRO BAY PARKS
Morro Bay is filled with some great parks to enjoy with family and loved ones. Check out Anchor Memorial Park, Bayshore Bluffs Park, Centennial Parkway, Morro Bay Park, Cloisters Park, Coleman Park, Del Mar Park, Lila Keiser Park, Mariner Memorial Park, Monte Young Park, and Tidelands Park.
Coleman Park is a great spot for bird and ocean life observation. Experience breath-taking views of the bay and Rock while picnicking at one of the nearby areas. There is also a basketball court (perfect for pick-up games) and a children’s swing set. Located at 101 Coleman Dr, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-6278.
Tidelands Park is also a local nautical themed favorite. Located at the south end of the Embarcadero (339 Embarcadero), this 2-acre park is used for weddings and children’s birthday parties as well as picnicking or just lounging on the well-maintained lawn. The park is also known as the Pirate Park because of the pirate ship in the sand play area. The play area also features seal statues, a whale’s tail, and a crow’s nest.
TAKE A CRUISE
Chablis Cruises is celebrating over 12 years in Morro Bay. Experience a private charter for all occasions or Enjoy their many Saturday Brunch Cruises and Sunday Chowder Cruises. Located at 1215 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-2128 Tickets available at www.chabliscruises.com
EXPLORE A MUSEUM Located in the heart of Morro Bay is the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History of 20 State Park Road (805) 548-0391. Learn about the unique area and habitats of Morro Bay and interact with educational displays. Fun for the whole family! Open 10am-5pm daily. Admission: $3 adults, children 17 and under are free.
LATE NIGHT FUN
The Siren serves rhythm and booze downtown Morro Bay. Dance, drink, and eat at one of the many events happening here. The music is live and the kitchen is open late-night. Experience the beer garden and billiard tables too. Located at 900 Main Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 225-1465
DINING IN MORRO BAY
Experience the local cuisine and fresh catch up the day at a number of delicious seafood restaurants along the Embarcadero and downtown. Morro Bay offers a variety of bars, cafes, pizza eateries, American, Italian, Asian, Mexican, and seafood restaurants you can experience. (We took the liberty of highlighting a handful of seafood restaurants in Morro Bay. Feel free to browse the search bar above for a complete list of local restaurants.)
Galley Seafood Grill & Bar is a popular waterfront restaurant with local seafood dishes and comfortable island décor. Located at 899 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442. (805) 772-7777
Giovanni’s Fish Market & Galley is a bustling seafood market and popular spot to dine al fresco on the covered outdoor patio on the water. Expect daily waiting lines at this popular fish market. The menu includes fresh fish and chips, clam chowder, sandwiches, burgers, fish tacos, burritos, and tasty fried Oreos. Located at 1001 Front St, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-2123 www.giosfish.com/
Another Central Coast favorite for fresh seafood, Mexican dishes, and American fare is the Bayside Café at the Marina. Located across the street from the State Park Campground entrance. (805) 772-1465 www.baysidecafe.com
Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant is a bustling seafood restaurant offering locally caught seafood and weekly specials. Located at 1245 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-8100
Dorn’s Original Breakers Café is a family-owned bayside restaurant favorite offering fresh seafood and spectacular views of the bay since 1942. Located at 801 Market Ave, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-4415
Windows on the Water offers seafood dishes with Californian, French & Mediterranean influences with oceanfront views. Located at 699 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-0677
Dutchman’s Seafood House is a waterfront seafood staple known for its clam chowder, fish ‘n’ chips & sand dabs since 1968. They provide friendly service and quality home-cooked meals in a relaxing family-friendly atmosphere. Located at 701 Embarcadero Ste #E, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-2269
The Great American Fish Company is a relaxing oceanside eatery offering seafood, sandwiches, fried fare, and salads. Located at 214 Beach Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-4178
The Harbor Hut is a tiki-style seafood hut featuring steak, oysters, seafood dishes and cocktails near the bay. Located at 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-2255
Rose’s Landing Bar & Grill is a relaxing family-friendly restaurant & sports bar that sits directly on the Bay with a picturesque view of Morro Rock and surrounding sea life. Their clam chowder is amazing! Located at 725 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-4441
The Hungry Fisherman is a cozy local diner-style restaurant offering American fare and seafood with friendly service and generous portions. Located at 399 Beach Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-3444
Discover some of the best views of the bay as you enjoy a hearty breakfast, a tasty burger, beer & wine, fish tacos, clam chowder & seafood at Blue Sky Bistro on the Bay. Offering live Friday night music, happy hour, a dog-friendly patio, free WiFi, and kids menu. Located at 699 Embarcadero #6, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-8988
PLACES TO STAY IN MORRO BAY
Extend your stay in Morro Bay with a number of fine Hotels and Inns. Here are just a few to get you started in the right direction. The Sundown Inn, Beach Bungalow Inn & Suites, 456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites, The Landing at Morro Bay, Blue Sail Inn, Bayfront Inn, Comfort Inn, Pleasant Inn, Estero Inn, Masterpiece Hotel, La Serena Inn, Ascot Suites, Inn at Morro Bay, and Harbor House Inn. (Browse the search bar above for more listings).
Call to confirm hours and availability of businesses, attractions, and events before you visit. Be sure to designate a driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
DISCOVER “MORE” MORRO BAY
www.morrobayca.gov/
www.morrobay.org/
morrobaybeautiful.org/
www.morrochamber.org/
www.wikipedia.org
twitter.com/morrobaytravel
www.visitcalifornia.com/places-to-visit/morro-bay/
www.slocal.com/places-to-visit/north-coast/morro-bay/
www.californiabeaches.com
