Birding 101 — Discover the Birds of Morro Bay
Birding can be as simple as watching the seagulls fly by the window while enjoying fresh, locally sourced seafood at…
January 15–19, 2026
Morro Bay Bird Festival
Where world-class birding meets small-town hospitality!
Each January, the Morro Bay Bird Festival brings birders, photographers, and nature lovers to California’s Central Coast to celebrate the incredible winter birdlife that calls the Morro Bay estuary home. For the 29th year in 2026, guests can look for more than 200 species in and around Morro Bay while enjoying the relaxed pace and friendly vibe of this coastal town.
Event Overview
The 2026 festival is the biggest yet with 263 events led by 135 expert leaders over five days. The schedule is designed for every type of visitor, from hardcore birders chasing lifers to beginners picking up binoculars for the first time.
You’ll find:
- Field trips to estuaries, shorelines, oak woodlands, ranchlands, and state parks
- Pelagic trips and bay cruises for seabirds, marine mammals, and coastal views
- Kayak birding on calm waters in and around Morro Bay
- Workshops and master classes on bird ID, bird sounds, photography, and nature journaling
- Family-friendly and beginner outings with a slower pace and extra guidance
The full program and trip list are available on the official festival site.
Festival dates: January 15–19, 2026
Registration opens: November 1, 2025
Registration link: https://www.signupmaster.com/mbbf/
Special Experiences
Alongside the field trips and workshops, the festival offers a few standout events that are always popular:
Movie Matinee: The Big Year
Watch The Big Year and hear from real-life birder Greg Miller, who inspired one of the main characters. Stay after the film for Q&A.
Welcome Receptions
Choose Friday or Saturday evening for a casual reception with wine, cheese, live music, and time to chat with leaders and fellow birders. You can browse the vendor bazaar for optics, books, art, photography, jewelry, educational exhibits, and festival gear. Each attendee receives a Morro Bay Bird Festival logo wine glass.
Walk, Bay Cruise & Lunch
Join VIPs Scott Weidensaul and Mark Mushkat for a morning walk, followed by a scenic cruise aboard the Chablis, a two-story riverboat with panoramic windows and a rooftop deck that is perfect for spotting birds on the bay. Lunch is included.
What You’ll See
Morro Bay is known for its protected bay, mudflats, wetlands, dunes, and nearby coastal bluffs. These habitats draw an impressive variety of birds each winter.
Common highlights include:
- Shorebirds and waders working the mudflats and shoreline
- Raptors hunting over fields and hillsides
- Waterfowl resting and feeding in the bay and nearby lakes
- Seabirds and marine life spotted on pelagic trips and bay cruises
Many trips visit well-known birding spots in the Morro Bay area and beyond, including Montaña de Oro State Park, Morro Rock, Sweet Springs Preserve, Los Osos, San Simeon, and inland lakes and ranchlands.
What To Pack For The Morro Bay Bird Festival
January on the Central Coast can be cool and damp, especially in the mornings and on the water. To stay comfortable:
- Dress in layers so you can adjust as the day warms up
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes that can handle damp trails
- Bring binoculars and a scope if you have one
- Pack a rain jacket, especially for pelagic trips and boat rides
- Carry a reusable water bottle and snacks
- Skip perfumes or scented lotions and avoid loud, rustling fabrics on field trips
Some trips run through lunchtime. You can bring your own food or pre-order box lunches from the festival’s preferred provider and pick them up at the Community Center.
Planning Your Stay In Morro Bay
Morro Bay offers a range of waterfront hotels, inns, and motels within a short drive of the Community Center, Embarcadero, and Morro Rock. Because the festival draws visitors from across the country, booking your room early is a good idea.
For an easy trip:
- Use Morro Bay as your home base for the festival.
- Build in time to enjoy local restaurants, shops, and the harbor between outings.
- Consider arriving a day early or staying an extra night to explore more birding spots at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Morro Bay Bird Festival?
A five-day birding festival on California’s Central Coast featuring field trips, workshops, lectures, and special events focused on the birds and habitats of the Morro Bay area.
When are the dates and what is the schedule like?
The 2026 festival runs January 15–19 with activities scheduled morning through evening. The full schedule and day planner are available on the official festival website.
How much does registration cost?
Costs vary by trip and workshop, so pricing is listed within the registration system. Many visitors mix a few higher-priced specialty trips with lower-cost walks and presentations.
How does this compare to other bird festivals, like San Diego?
Morro Bay stands out for its compact, scenic setting, strong winter bird numbers, and a friendly, small-town feel. Guests can enjoy top-tier birding without big-city logistics.
Who is the keynote speaker?
The festival typically features well-known speakers from the birding and conservation world. For 2026, look for keynote and VIP details on the official festival program as they are confirmed.
Are there activities for beginners and families?
Yes. Several outings and workshops are designed specifically for beginners, slower-paced walks, and families with kids.
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