Morro Strand State Beach

Morro Strand State Beach featuring general coastal views, kite surfing and waves


Bring your kids to play on the swing set and marvel at the seals that gather on this scenic expanse of sand.

Morro Strand State Beach is a stunning coastal bay that is popular among wind surfers and joggers. As part of California’s state park system, it is protected and clean, with trails and picnic sites that overlook Estero Bay. Fly a kite with your kids over this picturesque beach.

Enjoy the tranquil ambiance on this secluded stretch of sand, which takes you away from the buzz of city life. Watch pelicans hunt for fish, while seals flop on the sand. Go kite surfing on the choppy waves the area is fairly windy year-round. The water is quite cold, a welcome relief during hot Southern Californian summers.

Choose from the available tables or lay down a blanket to enjoy a picnic with a view of the ocean. See fishermen waiting patiently for their catches or purchase a license and bring gear to fish for surf perch.

Stroll along the entire 3-mile (5-kilometer) beach in search of shells and pebbles. Clamber over sand dunes and let your kids slide down them on a body board. At the southern end of the beach is the dramatic Morro Rock, a 581-foot (177-meter) high volcanic plug. Stay at the beach into the evening and watch the sun descend and the sky darken behind the rock.

Visit the area surrounding the base of the impressive rock formation and gaze up at the gulls and falcons that nest here. Note, however, that climbing the rock and disturbing the birds are acts forbidden by law.

With its playground and bathroom facilities, the beach is ideal for families. Stay overnight with your children and friends in the campground. Consider bringing extra layers, as the weather is changeable.

Morro Strand State Beach is 3 miles (5 kilometers) north along the coast from central Morro Bay. Pass the Dynegy Power Plant and the Morro Bay High School on the way here. Ride an old-fashioned trolley with hourly departures to the beach.

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Hollywood Historic Hotel
The Pierside Santa Monica
Short Stories Hotel

Popular places to visit


Top Morro Strand State Beach Hotel Deals

Harbor House Inn Morro Bay
Harbor House Inn Morro Bay
2 out of 5
1095 Main St, Morro Bay, CA
Harbor House Inn Morro Bay
Captain Java's Cottage in beautiful Morro Bay!
Captain Java's Cottage in beautiful Morro Bay!
Morro Bay
Captain Java's Cottage in beautiful Morro Bay!
Haysy Harbor for a Perfect Family Beach Home
Haysy Harbor for a Perfect Family Beach Home
Morro Bay
Haysy Harbor for a Perfect Family Beach Home
Morro Shores Inn And Suites
Morro Shores Inn And Suites
2.5 out of 5
290 Atascadero Rd, Morro Bay, CA
Morro Shores Inn And Suites
Cozy 2 bedroom house, ocean views, in quiet neighborhood, short drive to beach.
Cozy 2 bedroom house, ocean views, in quiet neighborhood, short drive to beach.
Morro Bay
Cozy 2 bedroom house, ocean views, in quiet neighborhood, short drive to beach.
Private Studio with easy beach access! (Perfect place to shelter)
Private Studio with easy beach access! (Perfect place to shelter)
Morro Bay
Private Studio with easy beach access! (Perfect place to shelter)
Masterpiece Hotel
Masterpiece Hotel
2.5 out of 5
1206 Main St, Morro Bay, CA
Masterpiece Hotel
Motel 6 Morro Bay, CA
Motel 6 Morro Bay, CA
2 out of 5
298 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay, CA
Motel 6 Morro Bay, CA
Holland Inn & Suites
Holland Inn & Suites
2 out of 5
2630 Main St, Morro Bay, CA
Holland Inn & Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.