Top 8 Things to Do During Winter in Morro Bay

Wanna know a little secret about Morro Bay! When winter comes knockin’, our charming coastal village turns into a festive winter wonderland (minus the snow, of course)! But you might be wondering, is winter a good time to visit Morro Bay?

Well, whether you find yourself enjoying some world-class birdwatching, catching an epic wave, or taking a tour of the nearby estate built by a twentieth-century publishing mogul, this is a winter getaway you won't want to miss out on. Add in high tides, light crowds, and the absolute best vibes, and you’ve got an all-around, can't-miss winter vacation.

1. Enjoy World-Class Bird Watching

Grab your favorite binoculars and get ready to fly high with some Morro Bay birding, California style (featuring wind in your hair and epic views)! No matter where you are in town, you’re bound to see some of our local feathered friends flying around during your time here. Designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society, our town is a hotspot for all kinds of birds making their way along yearly migratory paths. Many bird species choose Morro Bay as their preferred wintering destination, which is why bird watching is the very first winter activity on our list.

But wait, there’s more! We also happen to be home to the Morro Bay Bird Festival, an annual celebration of the area’s fantastic birding scene, which is made up of more than 200 unique species. Each January, the Morro Bay community invites birders, photographers, and nature lovers to embark on guided outdoor birding walks and tours, enjoy presentations from expert birders, take part in workshops, visit the exhibition hall, and more, all while enjoying the one-of-a-kind beauty of the Central Coast.

2. Catch Some Waves

Yep, you heard that right, surfing in winter! In fact, Morro Bay’s winter waves are some of the biggest (and least crowded) of the whole year. Local surf shops like Wavelengths and Morro Rock Surf Shop are always happy to hook you up with a surfboard rental so you can explore one of the area’s many perfect break locations near the harbor, including the Rock, Morro Beach, the Sandspit, and more. If you’d rather keep your land legs, that’s cool too! Set up on the beach and watch as surfers try to catch the perfect wave.

3. Go Whale Watching

Did you know you can have a total whale of a time during winter in Morro Bay? No, seriously, it’s true! These waters are well-known for playing host to whales making their annual migration. In winter, you’re most likely to see gray whales heading south to Mexico. Hop aboard a whale-watching tour from Sub Sea Tours or Lost Isle Adventure Tours to get up close to these magnificent creatures, or head to a vantage point and try to catch a glimpse while staying on land. Some favorite local spots for whale watching include North Point, Morro Strand Beach, and Estero Bay.

4. Explore the Bay by Kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard

If surfing isn’t really your thing, you can still get on the water via kayak or stand-up paddleboard! Explore the bay at your own speed, passing by the great monolith of Morro Rock and soaking up the tranquil winter vibes. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker/paddle boarder or a first-timer, Morro Bay offers the perfect playground for all your favorite aquatic adventures. Check out local kayak and SUP rental shops like Central Coast Outdoors, Morro Bay Paddlesports, and Rock Kayak Adventures to start exploring the bay.

5. Take a Mouth-Watering Foodie Tour

A Morro Bay winter isn’t just a feast for the eyes, but your taste buds too! Fresh seafood obviously takes center stage in a proud fishing village like this, but Morro Bay also serves up a large selection of restaurants that can help curb any craving you may have. We dare you to find your favorite meal in town. With so much to choose from, it’s no easy task! If you’re in the mood to try the day’s catch fresh from the bay, head on over to a local staple like The Galley Seafood Grill, Giovanni’s Fish Market, or House of JuJu.

6. Visit a Museum or Estuary

Winter adventures abound in Morro Bay, but our slice of coastal paradise also offers plenty of indoor adventures and discoveries that will keep you plenty busy during your time here. The Morro Bay Estuary Nature Center
invites explorers to learn more about the gorgeous Morro Bay estuary (where freshwater meets saltwater) and the creatures that call it home. Animal lovers can also check out the Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History for fun, featuring interactive exhibits on the area’s natural habitats. If boats are more your thing, head over to the Morro Bay Maritime Museum and learn about California’s maritime history, science, and technology.

7. Take a Day Trip to Hearst Castle

In the mood for a little dose of grandeur? Well, of course you are! Located about half an hour from Morro Bay, Hearst Castleis the famed estate of William Randolph Hearst, a publishing tycoon who had a flair for luxury. On his hilltop complex overlooking the coast, Hearst created a resplendent getaway featuring stunning architecture, a museum of rare antiquities, and 127 acres of gardens, fountains, and pools

8. Treat Yourself to Retail Therapy on the Embarcadero

The Morro Bay shopping scene is taken very seriously here in town. That’s why the Embarcadero, our waterfront downtown area, is filled to the brim with restaurants, museums, galleries, and (you guessed it) plenty of shops to explore. Find a unique gift at Smoobage, a one-of-a-kind coastal treasure at The Shell Shop, or something special to bring home to a loved one from The Mermaid Boutique. We promise that a little retail therapy is the perfect way to cap off a fun-filled winter trip to the bay. Check out our blog on some must-visit local shops and restaurants to learn more!

That’s a wrap on our top 8 winter activities in Morro Bay! Which one is at the top of your list? As you start planning, you can fit them all in and still make time to check out our deals and promotions to score some big savings during your stay. For example, if you book your stay at the Inn at Morro Bay by February 12, you can earn up to 20% off. Talk about the perfect opportunity to start planning and lock in your winter vacation as soon as possible!

Plan your Morro Bay, California winter vacation today.