Overlooking the Pacific Ocean on
Highway 1, west of 101 stands a monolithic rock, a state park, a
designated natural bird sanctuary and Morro Bay estuary.
Located on the shores of the Pacific along scenic Highway 1, Morro Bay
was founded by Franklin Riley who built the first wharf and planted the
eucalyptus forest to guard against the wind. The State Historic Landmark
of Morro Rock, which towers 576 feet at the entrance to the harbor, was
named by Juan Cabrillo during his voyage of discovery along the
California coast in 1542.
Chumash Indians who were
recognized as early settlers to the region continue to live and prosper
in the region. Photographer Ernest Zarate shared this information: "I am
a member of the Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation, and my mother is an
elder in the tribe....she lives in Morro Bay." A tribute to the
Chumash can be seen in a display at the the Natural History Museum which
includes several examples of the fine basket work produced by Chumash
people.
Morro Bay Harbor is home to one of
California's largest and most productive commercial fishing fleets and
provides area restaurants and fish markets with the freshest of seafood.
The commercial fishing industry is at the heart of Morro Bay culture and
a fall festival celebrates the town's rich heritage as a working
waterfront. You can purchase some of the local bounties at a weekly
Morro Bay Farmers' Market held Thursdays, 3-5 p.m.
Home to one of California's largest and most
productive commercial fishing fleets, boating activities for visitors
are numerous with choice such as kayak rental, harbor cruises and
fishing excursions.
Shops, restaurants and
hotels along the coastline and within several blocks of the primary
streets, Embarcadero which runs along the water front and Main which is
perpendicular to the coast, include art galleries, tourist gift shops,
surf and sport and dozens of restaurants.
Morro Bay State Park on the Morro shore looks out to sand dunes along
the ocean. The park includes an 18-hole golf course, marina, restaurant,
campground and picnic area. Within the Park are the Heron Rookery
Natural Preserve, Morro Rock Natural Preserve and Morro Bay State Park
Museum of Natural History.
Amongst its many activities and organizations are
Morro Bay Yacht Club located at 541 Embarcadero and a public
outdoor skate park, near Morro Rock.
Morro Bay is also a bird sanctuary
with more than two dozen endangered species, including brant, brown
pelican, black rail, peregrine falcon and snowy plover. The last estuary
of its kind between Mexico and Northern California, Morro Bay is a major
stop of the Pacific flyway. More than 70 migratory bird species make their
winter home here.
Morro Bay State Park on the Morro
shore looks out to sand dunes along the ocean. The park includes an 18-hole
golf course, marina, restaurant, campground and picnic area. Within the
Park are the Heron Rookery Natural Preserve, Morro Rock Natural Preserve
and Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History.
Morro Bay SP Campground Map Open all
year round - San Luis Obispo Coast Morro
Bay State Park features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay’s most
prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities for sailing
fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park museum
has exhibits cover natural features and cultural history, Native American
life, geology, and oceanography. The park also
has a colorful marina and an 18-hole public golf course. On the bay’s northeast
edge is a pristine saltwater marsh that supports a thriving bird population.
Park Kiosk Hours: Hi
Season: 8am-9pm Lo Season:
8am-4pm
Important Information Do
not confuse this park with Morro Strand. Park is open and reservations
taken year round. Directions The
park is in the town of Morro Bay, just off Highway One.
Morro Bay SP State Park Road Morro
Bay CA 93442 Park Information: 805-772-7434
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