Morro Bay Tourism Magazine

E X P E R I E N C E

MORRO BAY first hand

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WILDLIFE

LOCATION

LOCAL BEACHES

ART COMMUNITY

THE COMMUNITY This seaside fishing village with bustling waterfront offers a picture perfect getaway for all types of travelers who seek a getaway found in a gorgeous natural setting. Located along coastal Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County, Morro Bay offers year round activities in an unspoiled slice of California.

From ocean-side golf, kayaking, sailing, hiking, fishing, surfing, biking, and bird watching, to kite flying, shopping, dining, wine bars, local craft brews and miles of spacious

beaches, there is something for all ages to enjoy. Hike a trail, surf a wave, paddle the bay, visit a gallery, taste fresh seafood, sip local wine, sample handcrafted brews, delight in abundant wildlife or simply relax in our splendid natural setting taking in one-of-a-kind views of sea, sand and surf.

WHERE IS MORRO BAY? This beach town is located along the coast of California, midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Traveling south from San Francisco: Take U.S. Highway 101 south to Atascadero. Exit on State Highway 41 west, then head south on Highway 1. Exit at Main Street in Morro Bay. Total drive time: about 4 hours.

For an alternate, even more scenic route take Highway 280 south to Cupertino. Connect to Highway 85 south, and then take Highway 17 south to Santa Cruz, exiting to Highway 1 south. Total drive time: about 6 hours. Traveling north from Los Angeles: Take U.S. Highway 101 north to San Luis Obispo, exit north on Highway 1 to Morro Bay, take Morro Bay Blvd. exit.

WILDLIFE Morro Bay is lucky enough to host the largest animals on earth year-round. Impossible to be kept in captivity, the only way to see the majestic creatures is to venture around their natural habitat. These massive migrators are a treasure to behold.

Morro Bay’s sea lions are usually seen floating on their backs, feasting on mussels, crab and other crustaceans found in Morro Bay. They dive under the water to seek out the next course of their seafood meal. They also enjoy traveling in packs and sleeping in seaweed. Visit the Morro Bay National Estuary for tours and information about the unique wildlife that resides here.

WHALE WATCHING Whales are observed year round here in Morro. We begin our whale watching in January and offer Whale Watching trips through May. Southbound migratory period typically is December through mid-February. Northbound migration late February through April. Humpbacks are from late March through April into May. Blue Whales from April into summer. Orcas are seen any time.

On our Morro Bay whale watching tours you’ll get a once in a lifetime educational experience. We have the most experienced skippers on the Central Coast. Our renowned skippers have the skills, knowledge and experience to take you to the marine life. Our skippers are known for their ability to find Gray whales, Orca whales, dolphins and a variety of many different types of marine life.

ART COMMUNITY Morro Bay’s eclectic spirit is nourished by the vibrant artwork around town. Home to world-renowned galleries, street art and art connoisseurs, Morro Bay is food for creative souls. There’s much to see with more than 13 galleries, seasonal art festivals, and even a “mural mile” that weaves through downtown storefronts. A unique aspect of this quiant town is the number of ecectic thrift stores that line Morro Bay’s downtown area.

BEACHES From Morro Rock to Cayucos Pier lies Morro Strand Beach; a gorgeous stretch of un-combed beach sprinkled with sand dollars. This is a great location to watch for breaching and water spouts. Climb on the sand dunes for a better view.

Morro Rock Beach is immediately north of Morro Rock, within the city limits of Morro Bay. The beach is popular for its dramatic setting with Morro Rock looming overhead. During the summer two lifeguard towers are staffed from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Swimming, surfing, sandcastle building, sun bathing, and picnicking are all favorite activities there.

PADDLE BOARDING

BIRD WATCHING

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