More than a Rock

Welcome to Morro Bay

Morro Bay is a seaside getaway located right off scenic Highway 1 on the Central Coast of California. More than that, it’s a backdrop for the perfect coastal adventure. The centerpiece of this coastal haven? Morro Rock— a volcanic monolith rising from the depths of the sea. This rock has guided generations of fish captains home, their holds brimming with the freshest California catch. It peels off perfect Central Coast waves, delighting surfers and young whitewash adventurers alike. It’s a salt-rimmed beacon, the guardian of fresh oyster beds, home to seals and sea birds.

Through all that chatter, one thing is certain: if Morro Rock could talk, it would tell you to Come Get Salty in Morro Bay.

Things to Do

Shopping
Family Friendly
Pet-Friendly Hotels & Things to Do in Morro Bay
Restaurants
Museums & Arts
Live Entertainment
Camps, Classes & More
Things to Do At Night in Morro Bay
Deals & Promotions

Blogs

The Official Morro Bay Holiday Gift Guide 2025

This year, gift a little slice of Morro Bay to your friends and family. Maybe it's the ocean air, maybe it's the cute otters, or maybe it's just that everything from our…

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6 Marine Mammals You Can Spot in Morro Bay

Though we’ve already made a Guide to Discovering California’s Magical Wildlife, we figured the summer season is a perfect time to do a deeper dive into some of Morro Bay’s most common…

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A Guide to Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Morro Bay

With the new year just around the corner, where do you want to be when the clock strikes midnight?

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A Guide to Holiday Lights in Morro Bay

Looking for a little holiday cheer? Discover over 15 illuminated trees throughout Morro Bay during the month of December.

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Upcoming Events

December 7

Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show

This exhibit is truly a holiday shopping bonanza. This annual exhibit is Art Center's largest show of the year, both galleries are transformed into a winter wonderland. Find meaningful, memorable gifts that celebrate craftsmanship and support the community. Whether it’s a handcrafted ornament, a sculpture, or a cozy textile, you’ll leave with something as unique as the person you’re giving it to.

The space comes alive with warmth, festivity, and the spirit of giving making. The Winter Faire a perfect destination for getting inspired. Come find the perfect gift while supporting local artisans. There is something for everyone. Handcrafted ornaments, jewelry and cards, paintings, sculptures, larger statement pieces and more. This show is not to be missed, whether you’re knocking out your entire holiday shopping list or just looking a unique gift for that someone special, purchasing art at the Winter Faire is a chance to give with meaning while sharing the magic of creativity.

There are future dates for this event and it is currently underway
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December 20

Santa’s House at the Embarcadero

Santa's Coming to the Embarcadero! Come visit Jolly ol’ Saint Nick & get a picture. Admission is free! Santa will be welcoming families on Fridays and Saturdays from 5pm to 8pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 4pm the first 3 weekends of December. Friday December 5th. Santa will be at the Tree Lighting at City Park and will come to his house at 6pm. Santa's house is at the corner of Embarcadero and Front St.

There are future dates for this event and it is currently underway
Details

January 6, 2026

For The Birds

The "For the Birds" art exhibit offers a unique artistic experience that showcases a diverse range of mediums, from paintings to sculptures, all inspired by our avian friends. Visitors will have the opportunity to support and discover the talents of local artists who bring their unique perspectives to the theme of birds. This annual exhibit celebrates the vast array of indigenous bird species and all things bird-related, centering on the rich avian life found along the Central Coast of California. This region is home to a diverse array of bird species; each uniquely adapted to its coastal and terrestrial habitats.
What: For the Birds
When: Jan 6-Feb 16, 2026
Artist’s Reception: Sunday January 11th 2-4pm
Where: Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St, Morro Bay

There are future dates for this event
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January 15, 2026 to January 19, 2026

Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival

The 2026 Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival will be January 16th - 20th.This yearly ecotourism event promoting an understanding and appreciation of birds and other wildlife and an awareness of environmental and conservation issues of the Central Coast, while contributing to the well-being of the Morro Bay community. Each year the Festival has grown to include more events and to attract more participants. For more info CLICK HERE.

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