If you’re looking for a sleepy, quaint seaside town, look no further! Morro Bay is a hidden gem nestled between forests, natural preserves, and hills. The perfect escape from a busy city life, Morro offers one of the best weekend getaways from Los Angeles.

Read on below for guide to things to do in Morro Bay!

Things to do in Morro Bay

Explore the Elfin Forest

This is one of the most unique places in California! A natural preserve, the Elfin Forest in neighboring Los Osos spans 90 acres and overlooks the Morro Bay estuary. Pick up one of these guide pamphlets at the entrance, and take a stroll on the boardwalk around the loop to see some pygmy oak trees and get lost in the woods!

Helpful links: hiking trails, how to get there.

Discover the outdoors at Montana de Oro State Park

A gorgeous, underrated state park, Montana de Oro is the perfect place for outdoor activities and uncrowded camp sites. With an assortment of hiking trails, horseback riding, mountain biking, and the opportunity to discover coves and gorgeous beaches (see my favorite below!) plan on spending at least a day here.

Visit the beach at Spooner’s Cove

By far one of my favorite beaches in California, and one of my favorite things to do in Morro Bay! Located within Montana de Oro, Spooner’s Cove is similar to Malibu’s El Matador beach, with wonderful rock formations to climb around on. The beach itself consists of half sand, half smooth, colorful stones — suitable for those who wish to skip rocks! This site was also used as a filming location for the 1977 movie Pete’s Dragon, and there is plenty to do for kids and adults alike.

If there’s one tip I can offer, it’s be sure to stay for the sunset!

Stop by the Shell Shop

Come here for your seashell fix! This store has been opened since 1955, and is renowned for its decorative corals, shells, and jewelry.

Address: 590 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442

Kayak in Morro Bay

Rent a kayak (or some Airbnbs come with them!) and paddle around the bay, marveling at wildlife and enjoying the quiet peace of nature. If you’re journeying from Los Osos to Morro, make sure to stop by Bayside Cafe for lunch!

Watch the sunset over Morro Rock

Finish off the day with a nice dinner in town. I recommend picking a restaurant with seaside views so you can watch the sunset over Morro Rock (see below for recommendations.)

Getting to Morro Bay

From Los Angeles, take the 101 all the way up to San Luis Obispo, then the 1 to Morro Bay. The drive should take you around 3.5 hours without traffic.

Where to stay in Morro Bay

There are a variety of inns and hotels to stay at, but I actually recommend choosing the neighboring town of Los Osos, which is 10 minutes south of Morro Bay and super cute! Rent out one of the Airbnbs in the area. They are plentiful and give you the local experience of seaside living.

Where to eat in Morro Bay

For food, Morro and Los Osos both have wonderful options. Some recommendations below to satiate your appetite after a long day of activities!

Back Bay Cafe — a local spot in Los Osos serving breakfast fare. Tip: make sure you’re not in a rush, as the wait can get pretty long.

Bayside Cafe — the perfect pit stop during a day of kayaking.

Off the Hook — look no further for a sunset dinner, with stunning views of Morro Rock and the surrounding bay.

Blue Sky Bistro — my top choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Generous portions at decent prices, combined with fantastic views.

Have you done a California road trip? Let me know your suggestions below on where to stop and what to see!