Page 49 - SLO Visitor's Guide - Winter 2023

Morro Bay A sightseer’s delight
Explore the natural beauty of Morro Bay, a town famous for its fog
and fishing. Whether for a day or a week, this small town by the Rock has something for everyone.
Morro Bay is bursting with exciting activities to try. There’s deep sea fishing, whale watching, world-class surfing, hiking, biking, and kayaking.
When it comes to birdwatching, there’s little doubt that Morro Bay provides the best chance for observ- ing a great variety of species. It’s an incredible birding spectacle. There are also harbor seals, sea lions, and sea otters.
Looking to take a slower pace? Stroll down the Embarcadero and browse gift shops and art galleries. Explore the local cuisine and dine on fresh caught fish. Sit on a bench in Tidelands Park and watch the boats leaving the harbor or take a walk on the beach and watch the waves. Walk out the harbor boardwalk to Morro Rock, the 576-foot volcanic plug that looms over the bay and seashore. Keep an eye out for sea otters that rest in the kelp beds near the shore.
Attractions
Morro Bay Maritime Museum
This museum has been preserving and interpreting the maritime history, especially that of California since 1995. The current fleet on exhibit includes the tug boat “Alma” that rescued sailors from the December 1941 Japanese attack on a Union
Oil tanker off the coast of Morro Bay and the “Avalon,” one of two Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRV) submarines designed to rescue crews of downed submarines. The museum is located at 1210 Embarcadero in Morro Bay. For hours visit morrobay- maritime.org.
Morro Bay State Park
Morro Bay State Park, located at 60 State Park Rd. Morro Bay, features lagoon and bay habitat, all in view of Morro Rock. The park has opportuni- ties for sailing, fishing, hiking and bird watching and features a marina and an 18-hole golf course. The Morro Bay Golf Course is located at 201 State Park Rd. Call (805) 772-1923 for hours and tee times.
The park is a California state park, visit parks.ca.gov for informa- tion about parking, hours and other attractions.
Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History The Museum of Natural History is a fun place to explore, discover, and learn about habitats of the area
and impacts of natural and human forces through hands-on displays, activities, and events. This destination museum is located in the heart of Morro Bay. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: $3 adults; free for children 17 and under. 20 State Park Rd., Morro Bay. centralcoastparks.org. (805) 548-0391
North Point Natural Area
Operated by the City of Morro Bay, the North Point Natural Area has a stairway that leads down to the beach. Once on the beach, people can walk north to Cayucos or south to Morro Rock. The beach has one of the best tidepool areas. In the spring, the meadow is full of blooming wildflow- ers. The entry is located on Toro Lane in Morro Bay.
Black Hill Trail
Located at Main St and Parkview Dr., this 2.5 mile trail is a moderate hike. The trail is a favorite spot for na- ture walks and birdwatching. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Giant chessboard at Centennial Parkway
According to the United States Chess Federation, the Giant Chess-
board at Centennial Parkway, 806 Em- barcadero, is only one of two outdoor chessboards in the United States.
The other is located in New York City. The Morro Bay Chess Club installed chess tables and benches adjacent
to the Giant Chessboard. The Giant Chessboard is available for reserva- tions, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., through the Morro Bay Recreation Services for a small fee. Visitors are always welcomed to join the Morro Bay Chess Club on Sat- urdays beginning at noon. For more information call (805) 772-6278
Art Center Morro Bay
The Gallery has become a hub for fine art. They offer many opportunities to purchase beautiful, local drawings, prints, sculpture, jewelry, cards and more through an array of venues, as well as networking and educational opportunities for artists to further their craft. artcentermorrobay.org, Morro Bay Art Center 835 Main St., (805) 772-2504
Chablis Cruises
Treat yourself to a delicious meal and incredible vistas of Morro Bay Harbor aboard Chablis Cruises. Featuring weekly chowder and sightseeing cruises. Check our website for wine tasting and special events! Private charters available. Reservations highly recommended. Across from the stacks in Morro Bay, Chabliscruises.com, (805) 772-2128
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