Birding
Morro Bay’s ecological landscape make it a natural habitat choice for a variety of land and water birds.
Many migrating birds use Morro Bay as a stopover while completing their journeys along the Pacific Flyway twice a year. Recognized by the Audubon Society as an important bird area and a member of the National Estuary Program, it’s one of the best places on the California coast for birdwatching.
Observe the bird population year-round by hiking park trails, kayaking in the bay, or setting out on a whale-watching charter. The back bay and estuary are popular spots for a variety of species, while Peregrine Falcons circle above Morro Rock and Plovers leave delicate tracks on the Sandspit Beach dunes. For even more birding experiences, make your way from Morro Bay to San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden for guided birding events and walks through the garden that reveal even more local species.
Every January visitors can participate in organized birding activities and guided tours during the Morro Bay Bird Festival, one of the top five bird festivals in the nation.