There are many incredible things to do in Morro Bay, making it one of the top attractions in California for hikers, anglers, Surfers, art and museum lovers, birdwatching enthusiasts and people looking to unwind on one of the secluded beaches away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
One of the best coastal gems in Central California, Morro Bay, located along the seaside of San Luis Obispo, is a quaint town with a much less population and attracts tourists from across the globe for its last remaining chain of the volcanic peak.
Morro Bay, with its excellent six miles of tranquil beaches, is a protected harbour and is the best place to begin your tour of Northern California beach towns.
If you are planning a weekend trip from San Francisco or looking for an exclusive what to do in Morro Bay, read on to know about each Morro Bay attraction.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN MORRO BAY
CONTENTS
MORRO ROCK
Morro Rock, the main draw of Morro Bay, is a 576-foot rock which was part of a volcanic peak called the Nine Sisters of San Luis Obispo County 23 million years ago. The nine mountains stretched from Central Coast to Southern California.
Located in the Morro Rock State Preserve, you will often see this geological wonder associated with many other free things to do in Morro Bay.
Being one of the top Morro Bay attractions and sitting on the mouth of Morro Bay, this massive rock, visible from miles, served as a navigational aid for Spanish and Portuguese sailors in the 1500s.
Spanish folks named this place Morro Rock; Morro means “hill” or “Domed Rock” in Spanish.
The area is now a California State Historic Landmark, a designated bird habitat, and a nesting ground for Peregrine Falcons. It is considered a sacred place for the Salinan and Chumash tribes. So climbing this rock is barred.
There are several vantage points to get a close-up view of this giant Rock. Popular spots include the adjacent Morro Rock Beach, Morro Bay T Pier and Anchor Memorial Park. Enjoy the views of sea-lions and Otters lazing around.
Drive around Coleman Park and Embarcadero for stunning silhouette views of the Rock with gorgeous sunset vistas in the backdrop. Explore the rock’s surrounding along the Atascadero Road access trail.
Go Surfing or Kayaking in the nearby Cayucos Beach in the North or spend time exploring the tide pools of Spooner’s Cove in Los Osos to the South.
The rock’s Southside is protected by the harbour and is a fishing hotspot. Lifeguards will be available during the day.
Opening hours – 10 AM to 6 PM daily
MORRO ROCK BEACH
One of the free things to do in Morro Bay, especially if you are a beach bum looking to get a nice tan line, is to head to Morro Rock beach, located on the North side of the gigantic Morro Rock.
Drive through the Coleman drive to get a closer look at the Morro Rock base. Unwind on the sandy shores of Morro Rock Beach and admire the volcanic peak from a distance.
The beach is known for its dunes and has ample space to enjoy amazing sunsets. Surfers ride the waves, and the kids enjoy flying kites when the weather is favourable.
Try to hit the beach early since the place usually gets crowded. Walk to the nearby Cayucos State Beach, approximately five miles from Morro Rock Beach, to explore the Morro Bay hidden gems.
Lifeguards will be on duty on this beach during Summer.
THE EMBARCADERO
One of the romantic things to do in Morro Bay for couples is to stroll on the Embarcadero, yet another Spanish name meaning “to embark”.
The incredible waterfront stretch starts at the boat launch near Tidelands Park and is known for its cosy restaurants, bars, chic boutiques, and art galleries.
Take a guided boat or cruise tour in Morro Bay National Estuary to spot marine friends like Seals and Otters and explore the gorgeous Morro Bay waterfront.
Head inland from the Embarcadero to explore more local gems of the city along Morro Bay Boulevard.
Don’t miss Marina Square, a prime spot in this area, especially if you are a shopaholic looking to buy collectables and souvenirs.
There are many other souvenir shops along the Embarcedero stretch. I have included a few of my favourites below.
Visit The Gallery at Marina Square, operated by professional artists. The gallery features paintings, handmade jewellery, sculptures, photographs, and glass and wooden artefacts.
Check out Smoobage, Seven Sisters Gallery, and By the Bay Gallery for more varieties of Jewellery and other customized artworks produced by local artists.
Browse through The Shell Shop, a family-owned store, for a fabulous collection of marine shells. This place is the largest place for shell collections on the Central California Coast.
Embarcaddero is a haven for foodies. Most restaurants and cafes here offer mouth-watering seafood with a gorgeous ambience overlooking the ocean.
THE MURALS
Take a stroll on the Morro Bay downtown if you are an art buff. You will learn about Morro Bay’s culture, history and wildlife through these artsy 20 Murals on the walls and buildings of downtown.
Grab a town map at the Morro Bay Visitors Centre and do a self-guided walking tour of Murals, which have been here since 1985. The tour is about 2.25 miles and takes an hour, and it is one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay.
MORRO STRAND STATE BEACH
Visit the Morro Strand State Beach, spanning three miles of golden sand from Morro Rock to Cayucos Beach on the North, one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay.
The beach is perfectly packed with fine sand, ideal for taking a stroll or admiring the fantastic sunset views. Get a glimpse of Morro Rock and Estero Bay on the South side of the beach. You can even reach the base of Morro Rock if you head further towards the South.
If you are a birdwatching enthusiast, you should check out this beach since it is home to some colourful coastal birds along the shoreline.
Explore the dunes and wetlands nearby the park area or grab your surfboard to go surfing on one of the popular Morro Bay attractions.
Check out the Tidepools on the North end of the beach, especially during low tide. You will witness marine friends like urchins, anemones and sea slugs.
I recommend you camp in one of the 70 Morro Strand State Beach campsites. The campsites are well-equipped with RV parking lots and are within walking distance from the beach, and some grounds are near the three miles stretch known for fishing, windsurfing and kite flying.
Head to Dog beach, about six miles north on Highway 1 in Cayucos, if you want to enjoy with your furry friend, with incredible views of Morro Rock from a distance.
MORRO BAY ART ASSOCIATION GALLERY
If you are an art buff, check out the Morro Bay Art Association Gallery, located in downtown Morro Bay for over 60 years.
The gallery is a fine art hub on the Californian Central Coast that promotes local and international artists, and visiting this place is one of the cool things to do in Morro Bay.
Browse through the various paintings, artefacts, customised wooden and glass sculptures, jewellery and greeting cards.
The gallery provides an opportunity to network with various artists and to get financial aid and scholarships for various art programs. If you time your visit right, you may participate in one of the nine exhibitions each year.
Participate in various educational programs and classes to learn about the exhibits and the town’s history. Shop for souvenirs from the cosy gift shops in this gallery.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN MORRO BAY FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS
MORRO BAY STATE PARK
If you want to spend a lovely weekend outdoors in Morro Bay, visit the Morro Bay State Park, located in the prime location of the city, to enjoy various activities.
The park sits on the shores of the Morro Bay Lagoon and is also a nature reserve surrounded by gorgeous terrains and several natural bay habitats.
Visiting Morro Bay State Park is one of the best things to do in Morro Bay, especially if you are interested in birdwatching. The saltwater marsh on the North East side of the park is an apt location to capture the sights of various colourful birds.
Go hiking on the Marina Peninsula Loop Trail, which runs through dunes, salt marshes and estuaries. Rent a mountain bike or a Kayak and enjoy the lovely views of Morro Bay State Park.
Check out the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History to learn about the town’s culture, history and geography via its innovative exhibits.
For the best state park experience, plan to camp in one of the 130 campsites equipped with coin-operated showers, restrooms and RV hookups. The water marsh is also close to the campsites.
Opening hours – 6 AM to 10 PM daily
MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Visit the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History atop the hill on White’s Point, within the Morro Bay State Park. The Museum serves as a lovely vantage point for Morro Rock and Estuary and is one of the top things to do in Morro Bay this weekend.
The Museum was established in 1962 and primarily focuses on creating awareness about the town’s history and preserving documents related to the natural history of this region.
Take a guided tour to browse various artefacts and learn about California’s natural and cultural history. Check out the innovative touchscreen exhibits depicting the ecosystem of the Morro Bay estuary and human impact on nature.
Visit the nearby Chumash Garden, named after the native Chumash tribe who inhabited the place centuries ago. Learn about the various local plants in the garden, which were used by Chumash tribes in their daily lives.
Don’t forget to click pictures in front of the bronze statue at the garden’s entrance, which depicts a Native American releasing a peregrine falcon with the title ‘Seasons Come and Seasons Go’.
Opening hours -10 AM to 5 PM daily; Entrance – $3, adults, Free under 13
MORRO BAY T PIER SEA OTTERS
Morro Bay has a bunch of estuaries which has formed a sand barrier around the mouth of the Bay. This makes it a perfect natural habitat and a nesting location for Sea Otters and Pups.
These adorable Otters and Pups can be viewed up close via a stroll on the South T- Pier, which is one of the best things to do in Morro Bay.
The Sea Otters around this region have been in the endangered species category since 1977. Thanks to the conservation efforts by the locals, you can now witness a bunch of them lazing along the shoreline.
Visitors’ parking is available behind the Great American Fish Company. Alternatively, Walk along the Embarcadero to see these cute pups chilling in the warm waters.
MORRO BAY NATIONAL ESTUARY
If you are wondering what to do in Morro Bay this weekend, head to the Morro Bay National Estuary, a 2,300-acre mini paradise nestled between Chorro Creek and Los Oso Creek, where freshwater joins the sea.
The place is a protected preserve, a natural habitat for local fauna and is managed by the non-profit Morro Bay National Estuary Program and many other locals. The Estuary serves as a significant water body to the local Morro Bay community.
A visit to this Estuary is one of the top things to do in Morro Bay, especially if you are a birdwatching enthusiast.
Take a stroll in this rugged Estuary Nature Centre, or rent a Kayak and paddle amidst the lush vegetation in the 800- acre wetlands to witness colourful birds, including Turkey, Green Herons and Hummingbirds. Enjoy the sights of sea lions and otters in the calm waters.
SWEET SPRINGS NATURE PRESERVE
One of the best things to do in Morro Bay is to visit the Sweet Springs Nature Reserve, a 32-acre park in Los Osos off Ramona Avenue.
The Morro Coast Audobon Society manages the preserve. It is known for its lovely trails dotted with seasonal wildflowers that run through estuaries, saltwater marshes, wetlands and mudflats. At the end of the tracks, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Morro Bay.
Go hiking, cycling, or mountain biking which are some of the top Morro Bay things to do in this preserve. You must visit this preserve if you are interested in birdwatching. You may spot wading birds, raptors and even migrant and endangered birds in this preserve.
Plan a picnic lunch with your family nearby the pond under the shades of giant eucalyptus trees, enjoying the views of Turtles floating in the pond.
NORTH POINT TIDE POOLS
Visit the North Point Tide Pools, located off California Highway 1 at the North end of Morro Bay, if you want to take a relaxing dip in the waters overlooking the majestic Morro Rock and Morro Strand State Beach.
The North Point Tide Pools are known for their natural beauty, especially during the low tides, making it one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay.
The rugged rocky structures around the tide pools are exposed during the low tides along with colourful marine friends like Sea Anemones, Mussels, barnacles and limpets.
You can access these tide pools via the staircase at the end of Toro Lane or by walking a few miles down to North Point Beach.
Caution! The rocks around the tide pools are often slippery!
If you have spare time, check out Windy Cove, located near the Museum of Natural History, another popular spot in Morro Bay for tide-pooling.
MORRO BAY CRUISE
One of the relaxing things to do in Morro Bay is to cruise the waters of Morro Bay. There are many local cruises available which operate throughout the day.
I recommend taking a guided sunset cruise with a customised package. You can either go for a small sail or a bigger vessel and generally, food and beverages are served on a bigger cruise.
Enjoy the views of the silhouette of Morro Rock against the purple and orange sunset hues in the backdrop. You may witness Dolphins, Sea Lions, Whales, otters, and vibrant coastal birds.
Most of the guided tours are conducted by knowledgeable captains, so be open to learning about the local vegetation and wildlife as you cruise through the warm waters.
MONTANA DE ORO STATE PARK
If you are looking for a Morro Bay day trip idea, visit the Montana De Oro State Park, an 8000-acre wonderland on the South of Morro Bay and Morro Bay State Park.
Montana De Oro is a Spanish name meaning ” Mountain of Gold”, dedicated to the golden wildflower carpets that bloom during the spring in this park.
The park features craggy cliffs, sandy beaches, natural water streams, canyons and beautiful trails with surreal scenery, making this one of the top things to do in Morro Bay.
The State Park is also a protected marine preserve, serving as a natural habitat for the marine ecosystem.
Montana De Oro State Park has changed for millions of years due to the Volcanic activity in the area. It is evident from the 1,347-foot Valencia Peak present in the park.
Go hiking, backpacking, beach combing, birdwatching, or try to capture the gorgeous scenery with your lens if you love photography. Unwind on the Spooner’s Cove beach, which features rocky coves and take in the incredible sunset views.
There are several trails on this terrain suitable for all types of hikers. Check out the 3.4 miles Bluff Trail if you are a beginner hiker, which starts from the South of Spooner’s Cove and runs past bluffs and tide pools.
Try the Oats Peak Trail to climb the 1373-foot-high Oat Peak and enjoy the spectacular views of the Irish Hills for an adventurous Morro Bay experience.
The park has 50 Campsites equipped with basic amenities and RV hookups if you want to camp for a day or two.
BLACK HILL TRAIL
One of the fun things to do in Morro Bay, if you are an avid hiker, is to check out the Black Hill Trail.
Black hill trail, an 8-mile loop hike, is renowned among birdwatchers, hikers, backpackers and nature enthusiasts. The course is open throughout the year and is suitable for all hikers. You will see that the area is dotted with wildflowers and many other regional florae.
The trail starts in the Morro Bay State Park near the campground, runs amidst Californian Oak woods and ascends through the back hill, gaining an elevation of upto 600-feet.
The trail ends atop the hill made up of solidified magma from a volcanic eruption and serves as one of the best vantage points in Morro Bay. You will be rewarded with beautiful views of Morro Bay, Morro Rock, Morro Bay Estuary and the Cabrillo Highway on the other side.
Though there are no paved paths, the track is worn and torn, making it easy to navigate. I recommend you get a hiking pole to tackle the elevation and a flashlight if you descend later after sunset.
If you don’t want to climb but are eager to see the dazzling views of the Bay area, you may also drive up the hill and leave your car at the Black Hill Trail parking lot, 0.3 miles from the viewpoint.
HERON AND CORMORANT ROOKERY
One of the fun things to do in Morro Boy, especially if you love watching birds or if you are with kids, is to visit the Heron and Cormorant Rookery, located at walking distance from the Natural History Museum, next to the Inn at Morro Bay.
The Rookery is made out of the beautiful Eucalyptus grooves between Mexico and San Francisco and is known for its variety of colourful birds.
The place is a natural habitat for many birds like Egrets, Pelicans and Herons. You might spot double-crested Cormorants if you are lucky.
Get binoculars to experience a visual treat of the adult herons feeding their young ones and to see their lovely nests.
LEARN TO SURF
Morro Bay is one of the hotspots for Surfing in California. Most of the beaches are well-maintained, with sandy shores and gentle waves, making Surfing one of the cool things to do in Morro Bay.
Morro Bay has many beaches, but I recommend going to Morro Rock Beach to book one-on-one surfing lessons and learn from the experts. You will get all the necessary gear from the kiosks along the shoreline. Most of the sessions are suitable for newbie surfers as well.
If you are an experienced Surfer looking for a less secluded place, head to Sand Spit beach or Studios to the North, a Cayucos surfing location. You will see most of the local surfers at these places riding the gentle waves.
Head to Avila beach, further South, if you have spare time. Waves here are comparatively easy to ride.
EL MORO ELFIN FOREST
Head to El Moro Elfin Forest, located on the South East side of Morro Bay, if you want to spend a lovely weekend in Morro Bay. The forest is three miles from the Morro Bay State Park campground.
The forest derives its name from stunted Californian Oaks, which grow only up to 20 feet in height. Usually, these oaks are giant in other parts of the globe. This unique attraction draws people, making it one of the fantastic things to do in Morro Bay.
Managed by the San Luis Obispo County State park, the 90-acre forest is a natural habitat for many birds, insects and 200 varieties of regional plants. Some of them are also on the endangered list. The forest also features 150 feet of prehistoric dunes.
Go hiking on the rugged trails or take a guided walking tour to learn about these diverse Flora. Take the 0.8-mile well-maintained boardwalk that runs through the stunted oaks and offers the best views of Morro Bay and Morro Rock.
There are informational hoardings and kiosks to learn more about the local wildlife and vegetation. Relax on the benches and admire the tranquillity amidst the beautiful surrounding oak scenery.
El Moro Elfin Forest is close to the residential area. Ensure to maintain quiet and don’t park or block any residential roads.
COASTAL ACCESS MONARCH BUTTERFLY PRESERVE
One of the free things to do in Morro Bay is to visit the Coastal Access Monarch Butterfly Preserve, located at the end of Monarch Lane street, a 15-minute drive from Morro Bay.
Suppose you cannot make it to the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, one of the renowned locations across the globe to spot migrant Monarch butterflies. In that case, you can visit the Coastal Access Monarch Butterfly Preserve in Morro Bay.
Try to time your visit from November to February to see the full spectrum of Monarch butterflies. During the other months of the year, you might witness a handful of them hanging around in the dry Eucalyptus grove.
If you are with kids, you should take them to this preserve, and I am sure they will like it. Ensure you watch your steps on the ground as some butterflies might be sticking to the ground.
MORRO BAY MARITIME MUSEUM
If you want to learn about Morro Bay’s Maritime and naval history, visit the Morro Bay Maritime Museum, a few meters from Anchor Memorial Park across the Embarcadero.
The Museum was established in the 1990s and managed by the Central Coast Maritime Museum Association to preserve navigational aid and create awareness about maritime history. Don’t miss this one of the top things to do in Morro Bay if history interests you.
The Museum has a 1,500-square-foot exhibition hall, an interpretive centre and some important outdoor exhibits.
The Museum’s main draw is the DSRV – Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle, parked outside the Museum. Check out the other significant vessels, including the ‘Alma’, which was used in 1941 to transport lifeboats of survivors from a sunken tanker.
‘Avalon’, one of the other DSRVs, coast guard cutter and deep-sea roving vehicles, are other exhibits in the Museum which will help you learn the maritime heritage of California.
Hours: 10 AM – 3 PM daily, Closed Tuesday & Wednesday | Entrance: Free
LOS OSOS OAKS STATE NATURAL RESERVE
One of the exciting things to do in Morro Bay if you want to explore nature is to visit the Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve, located on Los Osos Valley Road in Los Osos Valley, nestled between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The reserve features live coastal oaks and dunes from centuries ago and are home to many adventures like hiking, backpacking and birdwatching.
Admire the five different plant species, Coastal Sage Scrub, Dune Oak Scrub, Riparian, Central Coastal Scrub and Live Oak Forest, in this reserve dotted beautifully next to each other.
ESTERO BLUFFS STATE PARK
Visit Estero Bluffs State Park, a 353 acres wonderland along the Californian coast, a natural habitat for cormorant birds, making this one of the top things to do in Morro Bay for bird lovers.
The park area was supposedly a residential place for the Native Americans, and it is a protected preserve now with various unique wildlife and vegetation. The park runs along the shoreline, adorned with large bluffs, and you can witness the fantastic turquoise waters in the backdrop.
Estero Bluffs State Park is easily accessible from various access points across the Pacific Coast Highway.
There are several things to do in Estero Bluffs State Park, popular ones being hiking and birdwatching. Check out the Estero Bluffs Trail, a 7.2-mile loop that offers dazzling ocean views throughout the trail.
Rent a bicycle and ride to the observation deck for the stunning Morro bay and Sunset vistas. Visit the natural arch created by the Monterey Cypress Tree spot, a giant tree brought down by the storm many years ago.
The park features an exclusive parking spot, the hand launch, for Canoes and Kayaks. Ensure to get binoculars to spot colourful birds and other rare wildlife species.
HEARST CASTLE
One of the cool things to do in Morro Bay is to visit Hearst Castle, located on the Enchanted hill, thirty miles away from the coast.
The National Park Service maintains the castle and is home to a well-maintained library, a state-of-the-art museum, and lovely gardens overlooking the beautiful Pacific.
Take a guided tour to explore the lavish interiors of the castle and witness the main draw of the castle, the swimming pool, which was once the location for the world’s largest private zoo.
Visit the Hearst Castle Visitors Center downhill to learn about the various guided excursions and the introductory video narrating the castle’s construction.
MISSION SAN LUIS OBISPO DE TOLOSO
The San Luis Obispo Mission, or Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, is a 16th-century traditional Spanish mission, one of the five in California that you should add when you are downtown.
If you are a history buff and want to learn about the late 1700s architecture, you should visit this Mission which is a 15-mile drive from Morro Bay and one of the free things to do in Morro Bay.
Take a guided tour of the Museum in the Mission, with exhibits explaining the lifestyles of early Native Americans in the area.
The beautiful gardens around the Mission overlooking San Luis Creek are impressive for an evening stroll you can enjoy amidst a well-maintained flowered garden.
Check out the other SLO attractions, art museums and Farmer’s market downtown if you have spare time.
PISMO BEACH
Pismo Beach is one of the top SLO beaches, located South of Morro Bay at a 25-mile driving distance on Highway 101.
If you are into beach combing, looking for top surfing locations nearby Morro Bay, or just a place to unwind and enjoy the fantastic sunset views, head to Pismo Beach, one of the cool things to do in Morro Bay.
Pismo beach spanning more than 20 miles, offers a wide range of adventurous activities like riding ATVs, Kayaking, diving, fishing and sailing.
Check out the famed Pismo Pier, try out the mouth-watering seafood delicacies in one of the top seafront restaurants along the shoreline or enjoy the vibrant nightlife on Pismo Beach.
Visit the nearby Dinosaur Caves Park, Monarch Butterfly Grove or the Oceans Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area if you have spare time.
HIKE TO THE TOP OF CASS HILL
If you are looking for a hiking trail along the coast in Morro Bay, hike the Cass Hill trail in the cosy hamlet of Cayucos, a 10-minute drive towards the North of Morro Bay.
Cass Hill Trail, a 3-mile loop, is not on the popular trail list but is a decently maintained trail if you want to hike peacefully with much lesser crowds. This is also among the dog-friendly trails, making this one of the exciting things to do in Morro Bay.
The trail is moderate and gains an elevation of around 500 feet. You will be greeted with the views of beautiful Cayucos town, the Central Coast and the majestic Morro Rock at a distance. Ensure to carry enough beverages and snacks if you hike in summer.
If you are driving to this, park on the North side of Cass Hill, off Cayucos Drive and Little Cayucos Creek Road.
FUN THINGS TO DO IN MORRO BAY
CHECK OUT TIDELANDS PARK
One of the fun things to do in Morro Bay is to visit Tidelands park, a two-acre adventurous land towards the Southern End of Embarcadero.
Tidelands Park is popularly known as the Pirate Park among the local kids due to its nautical and pirate-themed ship at the park’s centre. The park is well-maintained, with neatly cut grass and benches around to enjoy the incredible sunset views.
Although you cannot access the beach from this park, you can still climb up the ship to take in the gorgeous views of sailing boats in the backdrop of Morro Bay.
The park has many interactive sculptures, including an octopus and a whale tail. The park is also a spot for weddings and birthday parties and is one of the favourite picnic areas among the locals. Take the stairs down from the Park to look at the sea otters lazing around.
CLOISTERS PARK
One of the fun things to do in Morro Bay, especially with kids, is to visit Cloisters Park, located in the Cloisters House Subdivision.
The 34-acre park is secluded and has ample amenities, which draws both kids and adults. Kids can play around in the expansive green fields, and parents can stroll on the boardwalk, which offers incredible beach views.
The park also features a biking and cycling path if you want to cycle along the shore, enjoying the gorgeous sunset vistas.
KAYAK OR SUP
Exploring Morro Bay on a Kayak, Canoe, or SUP is one of the popular Morro Bay attractions.
There are many locations on the Los Osos side of the Estuary to rent a Kayak or Canoe which departs from Bay Harobours or Marinas.
I recommend taking a guided tour accompanied by a trained professional for the best Morro Bay experience. They take you along the bay, which has calm waters and is separated by the ocean.
Opt for customised extended tour packages like the sunset package if you are with the family. You can witness the sand-split area which protects the Bay.
It is a delight to Kayak in these freshwaters away from the Sail Boats. You will see much of the local wildlife, making this one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay.
Get a close-up view of colourful coastal birds, otters and sea lions. You might even spot some rare and endangered species.
WATCH A MOVIE AT THE BAY THEATRE
Watching a movie at the Bay theatre is one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay, especially if you are looking to spend some quality time with your loved one.
This theatre is known for its first run of films in the area. It features well-maintained seats and an excellent sound system with a decent screen. So grab your favourite drink and book tickets to enjoy the American cinema experience.
Opening Hours – 3:30 PM to 7 PM from Tuesday to Saturday, 12 PM to 3:30 PM on Sundays.
SPORTSFISHING
Morro Bay is one of the fishing hotspots in California, and Sportsfishing is a popular recreational activity among the locals.
Many private guided tours provide rental fishing rods and baits, making this one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay.
The tours can be customised, especially if you are with the family, and most of them run for a whole day on the local charters of fishing businesses.
MORRO BAY GOLF COURSE
Try Golfing in one of California’s finest Golf courses, a part of the Morro Bay State Park, Morro Bay Golf Course.
The course has a historical significance in Morro Bay and was established in 1923. It features 18 holes, and you can hit them straight, overlooking the stunning Pacific in the backdrop.
Morro Bay Golf Course, suitable for Golfers of all ages, is also home to a lovely bird sanctuary and is well equipped with amenities like an onsite grill, bar and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
Sign up for golf lessons from trained professionals; you will be provided with all the necessary gear.
Opening hours – 6 PM to 7 PM everyday
Entrance: $49 – for adults, $40 – for seniors, $25 for folks between the age of 18-25 and $5 for people under 18
THE GIANT CHESSBOARD
Head to the Centennial Parkway on the Embarcadero, which features a giant chessboard and lovely resting spots.
This world’s largest interactive chess board was established in the 1970s to mark the Centennial celebration. Bring your friends and family to click pictures on this peculiar site, and this is also one of the fun things to do in Morro Bay.
CHECK OUT LOCAL MARKETS
FARMER’S MARKET AND SEAFOOD MARKET
One of the top Morro Bay attractions is the different Farmer’s Market and Seafood Market, which are held on various days of the year, depending on the season.
You can read about the popular ones and my favourites on the list below, and visiting these markets is among the top things to do in Morro Bay.
MAIN STREET FARMER’S MARKET
Just a few meters away from the Embarcadero and the Morro Bay Harbour, you will witness the Main Street Farmer’s Market.
Go around the two blocks of the market on the main street and Morro Bay Boulevard, and you will be greeted with the aroma of freshly produced olive oils, baked bread, homemade jams and other local products.
On top of this, the farmer’s market gains extra glam from the nearby antique shops, chic boutiques displaying various artefacts produced by local artisans and some excellent seafront restaurants known for their delicious seafood cuisines.
They are held every Saturday from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
THURSDAY AFTERNOON MARKET
Check out Spencer’s Fresh Markets parking lot on Thursdays, especially the Main and Elena Streets, for locally made honey, fresh fruit juices and local produce.
They are held every Thursday from 2 PM to 4:30 PM.
GIOVANNI’S FISH MARKET
If you want to try California’s best fish, check out Giovanni’s fish market, located on the waterfront, a family-owned market for the past 30 years.
You will find almost all varieties of seafood here, including shellfish, crabs, oysters, shrimps, sushi and smoked fish, with some mouth-watering side dishes and sauces.
The best part of Giovanni’s fish market is they will ship your order across the United States.
They are held every Thursday from 9 AM to 6 PM.
MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN MORRO BAY CA
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