Midway between San Simeon and Pismo Beach on California's Central Coast lies the small fishing town of Morro Bay. Dominated by the dramatic volcanic peak of Morro Rock at its northwest limits, Morro Bay is fast developing a reputation for eco-tourism, while outdoor enthusiasts will find an abundance of attractions. Morro Harbor features a five mile sand dune that stretches from the Montana de Oro State Park and offers shelter from the Pacific, while camping can be found at a number of beach locations.
Campsites
The Montana de Oro State Park is one of California's largest state parks receiving close to one million visitors every year. Campgrounds are located opposite Spooner's Cove offering limited facilities, including 40 primitive camping sites and the Hazard Horse Camp with water for horses. There are restrictions on trailers over 27 feet long and en route campsites for self-contained vehicles only. Morro Dunes RV Park is located on a nine mile stretch of Atascadero Beach and features 134 full hook-up sites and RV service and repair. Morro Strand State Beach is a favorite for fishing, windsurfing and jogging and can accommodate RVs up to 24 feet long.
Attractions
Explore the Morro Bay Natural History Museum in Morro Bay State Park, offering nature walks and interactive exhibits suitable for the whole family. Visit Hearst Castle at San Simeon, former ranch to William Randolph Hearst, on which he built the world's largest private zoo. Self-guided tours of the extensive gardens and esplanade are available from mid-March to Labor Day offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables at several Farmer's Markets, or just stroll along the Embarcadero.
Activities
There are outdoor activities to keep you busy from dusk 'til dawn in Morro Bay and the surrounding area. Rent a mountain bike and enjoy miles of trails in Montana de Oro State Park, play a round of golf with stunning ocean views from Morro Bay Golf Course, spot gray and humpback whales, sea lions, sea otters and seals on a sport fishing trip out of Morro Harbor, rent surfboard and kites, or take a gentle sunset paddle with Central Coast Outdoors.
Events
Enjoy a full calendar of events year-round, including the frequent Embarcadero Art Walk on the second Friday of each month and the annual October Harbor Festival, which features the 2 Rock 5 Mile Fun Run and guided educational boat tours with the Coast Guard. There's a Winter Bird Festival in January and the Morro Bay Kite Festival in April: join the annual Rock to Pier run in July and the Miracle Miles for Kids 10k Run in April.
When To Go
Morro Bay's beaches enjoy mild weather year-round for camping and rarely get too warm or too cold, although a high of 102 degrees Fahrenheit was recorded in 1984. The warmest month is usually October with a mean high of 69 degrees Fahrenheit, while January is the coolest month, with an average not much lower at 62 degrees. The rainy season runs from November until April.
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