Spend Valentine’s Day in Morro Bay

Valentine’s Day in Morro Bay moves at a different pace. It’s less about packing in plans and more about letting the coast guide the day.

You might start with coffee by the water, wander without an agenda, watch the light change on Morro Rock, and end with dinner overlooking the bay. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a casual date, or a Galentine’s getaway, Morro Bay gives you space to make it feel natural.

By The Water
On The Bay
Around Town
Slow and Scenic
Something Sweet
Valentine’s Weekend Events

Find Your Morro Bay Mood

By the Water – Harbor walks, sunset views, waterfront dining
On the Bay – Kayaking, paddleboarding, wildlife watching
Around Town – Embarcadero strolling, shops, casual bites
Slow and Scenic – Beach walks, Morro Rock, quiet moments

By The Water

Plan dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants along the Embarcadero, where windows open to the bay and Morro Rock sits in the distance. The menus emphasize fresh coastal flavors, and the atmosphere is ideal for a romantic dinner.

Windows on the Water

Saturday, February 14 | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Impress your loved one with a special evening at their elegant Valentine’s Day dinner featuring a Three-Course Prix-Fixe Menu, expertly crafted by award-winning Executive Chef, Neil Smith. Cost is $99 per guest and reservations are required.

The Dutchie

Enjoy fresh seafood, burgers, and seasonal fare in a sophisticated setting with stunning views of Morro Rock.

60 State Park Restaurant & Lounge

Order dinner from a delicious menu with postcard-perfect views of the bay, conveniently located in the Inn at Morro Bay.

On The Bay

Morro Bay’s calm estuary waters are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Glide past birds and marine life, explore the shoreline, and experience the bay from its quiet side, making for a memorable Valentine’s Day outing with your sweetheart.

Morro Bay Paddlesports

Explore Morro Bay by kayak or stand-up paddleboard and experience wildlife, open water, and views of Morro Rock from a whole new perspective. Rentals and guided tours are available.

A Kayak Shack

Set out on a guided or self-guided kayak tour through the back bay and estuary, where you can paddle through quiet channels and watch birds and marine life along the shoreline.

Central Coast Gondola

Enjoy a private Venetian gondola cruise around Morro Bay with Central Coast Gondola, offering romantic rides and special celebrations as your gondolier rows you through the harbor. Special Valentine's Day cruises can be booked here.

Central Coast Gondola

Around Town

A day wandering around town is perfect for low-pressure dates and Galentine’s outings. Spend time along the Embarcadero, popping into shops, grabbing coffee, and stopping whenever something catches your eye. Morro Bay’s walkable waterfront makes it easy to turn a simple stroll into a full afternoon.

Smoobage

Find something unique together at this local gift shop packed with handcrafted items, home decor, and thoughtful finds for a spontaneous Valentine’s gift or keepsake.

The Shell Shop

Browse shells, crafted sea treasures, and coastal gifts in a long‑loved local store where you’ll find the perfect Morro Bay souvenir.

Beads by the Bay

Explore colorful beads, wind chimes, and garden accents at this cheerful boutique.

Highway 41 Antique Emporium

Discover vintage jewelry, estate pieces, and eclectic finds at this large antique mall, with plenty of surprises around every corner.

Art Galleries

Peek into galleries and art spaces along the waterfront shops to see local work and conversation‑starting pieces together.

Add in a casual lunch or a drink overlooking the harbor, and you’ve got a Valentine’s Day that feels effortless and personal.

Slow and Scenic

Take a long walk at Morro Strand State Beach or head toward Morro Rock to soak in one of the most iconic views on the Central Coast. Watch the waves, listen to the wind, and enjoy doing absolutely nothing in a beautiful place.

Morro Strand State Beach

What’s more romantic than a long walk along the sand, watching the waves roll in, and enjoying wide-open spaces together?

Morro Rock

Sit or stroll near one of California’s most iconic coastal landmarks. Take a walk along Coleman Beach and enjoy harbor views that create the perfect backdrop for a cute couple selfie.

Elfin Forest Natural Area

Walk the boardwalk through lush coastal woodland, spot local wildlife, and take in panoramic views of the estuary on this accessible, 1-mile boardwalk trail.

Wildlife Viewing

Bring binoculars or just settle on a bench to watch sea birds, harbor seals, and local wildlife. Turn it into a game or a conversation starter as you take in all of the nature around you.

End With Something Sweet

No matter what style of date you choose, it’s Valentine’s Day afterall! Share a cone or split something chocolatey for a sweet end to your perfect day with your sweetheart.

Valentine’s Weekend Events

February 14 to February 15

32nd Annual Big, Bad, & Ugly Surf Competition

The "Big, Bad & Ugly" Surf Competition is an annual longboard event in Morro Bay, California, hosted by the Estero Bay Surf Club, usually held around February at The Rock, featuring classic longboarding with a fun, retro vibe. For 2026, it's scheduled for February 14-15, 2026, at Morro Rock.

Details

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