Morro Bay

Along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway is the hidden little beach town of Morro Bay. Twenty minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay is quite an eclectic mix of architectural styles from beach cottages to sweeping ranch estates and everything in between. You’ll find a collection of old and new, Craftsman bungalows, modern architecture, luxury developments and fixer-uppers. Morro Bay has spectacular panoramic views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean coastline and the undeveloped mountains that hug the bay…Morro Bay has a little something for everyone.

Morro Bay’s famous landmark, Morro Rock, was named by Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542 when scouting out the Pacific Coast for Spain. “The Rock” as referred to by locals is one of the Nine Sisters, a series of ancient volcanic plugs that line the valley between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay. Although you cannot hike up Morro Rock, several of the Nine Sisters are accessible and favorite hiking spots for locals.

The Museum of Natural History is a great way to learn about the area’s history and wildlife. The museum sits on top of a hill with an outstanding panoramic view of the estuary. Not a bad place to spend a day with the family! Beyond exhibits, you can plan a day of activities including a walk through the Chumash garden to learn how the Chumash Indians used the native plants of the Central Coast in their daily lives.

Morro Bay is an ocean lover’s dream…sailing, fishing, kayaking, and surfing…it’s all right here! Morro Bay sits adjacent to Montana de Oro, one of the largest State Parks in California, where every view is a breathtaking mix of coastal plains, rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Morro Bay may seem a bit secluded, but don’t worry there are plenty of events to keep your calendar full. How about great oceanfront dining, art festivals, art galleries, seafood festivals, a lighted boat parade, farmers market, a historic movie theater, and a massive stretch of beach for starters? The Harbor Festival has been Morro Bay’s annual celebration of food, wine, and art for nearly 30 years. Held right on the beautiful waterfront in October, it is the town’s biggest festival. The second Friday of every month you can join art lovers taking a stroll for The Embarcadero Art Walk, a fun way to get outside and check out local artists.

When it comes to eating out, Morro Bay has a nice blend of high-end restaurants to comfortable bistros. Taco Temple serves up fresh “California Fusion” delicacies with desserts well beyond your expectations.  It’s not uncommon to find a line out the door, but it is well worth the wait, trust me. If you aren’t lucky enough to live in Morro Bay, Taco Temple is reason enough to take a trip. Speaking of fresh…Giovanni’s Fish Market, on the Embarcadero, is loaded with the catch of the day. You can eat out on the patio or go home and grill it up with some local veggies from Farmer’s Market.

So, come for a visit and as they say in Morro Bay “Discover your better nature.”

Want to find out if Morro Bay is the perfect beach town for you? Contact Steve today for more information. From cottages to estates, we’ll find you the perfect home.

Photos by Rick Carr