The Essential Guide to Morro Bay, California

As far as Central Coast beach towns go, it’s hard to think of one more eye-catching than Morro Bay. Just take a look at 576-foot-tall Morro Rock as it rises above cawing seagulls and the sea mist of the Pacific—it’s practically postcard-perfect.

The sight of Morro Rock has greeted countless visitors to this part of California’s Central Coast for centuries, from the European explorers who came to the area enticed by its calm waters, to the modern-day surfers who ride the swells that break outside the bay. Morro Bay was once a bustling port city that primarily dealt in the shipment of dairy and beef from the local ranches in the area. Today, it’s a popular beach destination, and shops, restaurants, and hotels line its picturesque waterfront district, the Embarcadero.

A variety of native animals, such as sea lions, otters, and seabirds, call Morro Bay home, and it’s also in the migratory path of one of California’s most beloved ocean dwellers: humpback whales. These gentle giants like to feed in the nutrient-rich waters off the coast of Morro Bay, particularly in the late summer.

“We have gray whales in the winter and spring, and humpbacks from the spring through fall,” says Dakota Osborne, a lifelong Morro Bay resident and captain at Sub Sea Tours & Kayaks. He spends his days guiding boats up and down the coast off Morro Bay in search of marine life. “Typically, humpbacks are a little bit more playful and charismatic, so I tell people if you’re going to just go once, come for the humpbacks. Late summer, as the weather gets a little better and the tourist crowds die down, is a great time.”

Of course, though, whale-watching is just the start of what you can do in town—here’s what you need to know before planning a trip to Morro Bay, California.

Things to Do

Considering Morro Bay’s prime location on the Central Coast, most visitors come to enjoy a beach day or two. Definitely make time to take in the iconic views at Morro Rock Beach or the Embarcadero, but you should also think about getting out on the water for the full experience. Outfitters like Estero Adventures rent out boats for scenic cruises up and down the bay, where you’ll more than likely spot otters and sea lions at play.

On the other end of Morro Bay, you can take a canoe or kayak tour with Central Coast Outdoors for a relaxing trip past the salt marsh and sand spit, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides. If you’re a shellfish fan, opt for the Oyster Farm Tasting tour, which takes guests out to the offshore Grassy Bar Oyster Farm before returning to the dock to enjoy fresh oysters.

If you’ve come for the sea life, book a whale-watching tour with Sub Sea for a chance to catch a glimpse of gray or humpback whales breaching above the swells, or even “mugging” your boat by coming up close to investigate. Whale-watching tours run multiple times per day, and though you can spot whales at just about any hour, you should keep a few other elements in mind when planning your tour.

“Usually, there’s a little less wind and chop in the morning, though afternoons can get a bit bumpy,” says Osborne. “Dress in layers, bring a snack, binoculars, a camera, and sunscreen. The crew is always happy to assist people, and we have some remedies like ginger chews for seasickness.”

Back on land, shake off those sea legs with a stroll along the Embarcadero, where you can peruse the Morro Bay Maritime Museum and peruse local shops like cute-as-a-button candy store Carousel Taffy and the Shell Shop, which has been open and family-owned since 1959.

If you have the time, you can drive 40 minutes inland for a stop by the winemaking hub of Paso Robles. However, you might just find the best wines right in Morro Bay at Absolution Cellars, a waterfront tasting room whose owners will happily share the history of their vintages and the colorful artwork on each bottle’s label. But if you’re more into hops and wheat, head to the dog-friendly Three Stacks and a Rock Brewing Company.

Last but not least, for more perspective on the area’s marine life, visit the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History adjacent to Morro Bay State Park. You should also make time to hit the nearby Black Hill Trail, just minutes away. “Going up to the top of Black Hill is amazing,” says Osborne. “It’s a pretty easy hike and it has a great, 360-degree view of the whole area.”

Best Restaurants

Like much of the Central Coast, Morro Bay has an impressive dining scene.

Before you hit the beach, grab a coffee and pastries from Morro Bay Coffee Co., Suns n’ Buns Bakery & Espresso Bar, or Scout Coffee, a San Luis Obispo institution that opened a Morro Bay outpost in 2024. 

As for lunch and dinner, the Embarcadero has fresh seafood eateries in spades. Out toward Morro Rock, you’ll find the Harbor Hut and Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant, a local favorite. “I love Tognazzini’s because they have the local catch and they do live music,” says Osborne.

Other options include the hilltop Dorn’s Breakers Café, which overlooks the Embarcadero and the ocean, and The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar, famous for its buttery scallops. Or, head over to Dutchman’s Seafood, aka The Dutchie, for generous filets of local sole and Skuna Bay salmon with views of Morro Rock. The House of Juju also has stellar sights, with eats like a delectable red snapper sandwich on offer.

As for fine dining, Windows on the Water has the best seats in town. This elegant establishment has an expansive menu with shrimp and clam linguine, cioppino, and steaks seared to perfection. And, as the name implies, the views of Morro Bay won’t disappoint.

Hotels and Resorts

The majority of Morro Bay’s hotels are located near or on the waterfront, like 456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites, a pet-friendly, 33-room boutique that’s so close to the harbor you can hear sea lions barking in the evenings. Accommodations include expansive suites and rooms with fireplaces, perfect for Morro Bay’s chillier nights.

If you’d rather avoid the hustle and bustle of the Embarcadero, head a couple of miles down Highway 101 to reach Rhapsody in View. A 10-minute walk away from the beach, Rhapsody has five rooms and two palatial suites, each with its own subtle theme. All rooms have plush linens, ecofriendly products, and balconies with ocean views. Bring your appetite for breakfast, made right on-site and featuring freshly made baked goods.

In addition to the slew of hotels in town, camping is available at Morro Bay State Park. Located along a peaceful inlet, these 140-plus sites are perfect for anyone who wants to indulge their adventurous side during a trip to Morro Bay.