.png){kind=icon}
There are plenty of great ways to explore Morro Bay and California’s Central Coast, and many of them are free. Start a day of sightseeing by grabbing a cup of the best coffee in Morro Bay, then explore all the free things to do in Morro Bay!
Montana de Oro & Morro Bay State Parks
Morro Bay is a nature lover’s dream. The iconic Morro Rock towers over downtown, and there are plenty of beaches and other natural attractions. The area is also home to a variety of state parks, which are free to visit!
Morro Bay State Park is located in downtown Morro Bay and is where Morro Rock is located. This state park offers various activities, including camping, guided tours, sailing, fishing, and hiking trails. There is also a marina and an 18 hole golf course. Morro Bay State Park also features the Museum of Natural History, where you can discover exhibits about the history of Morro Rock’s formation and the area’s native wildlife.
Montana de Oro means “mountain of gold” and is named after the golden wildflowers that bloom in this state park in spring. This park is located six miles southwest of Morro Bay and has 8,000 acres of canyons, cliffs, streams, trails, beaches, and a 1,347-foot mountain peak. There are also opportunities for camping, mountain biking, and hiking.
Morro Bay Mural Mile
The Morro Bay Mural Mile is one of the great free things to do in Morro Bay. This two-mile-long stroll around the waterfront downtown district allows you to gaze upon 23 unique murals painted by local artists. The murals depict and celebrate Morro Bay’s history, culture, wildlife, and natural splendor. It’s an excellent way to take a self-guided tour of downtown Morro Bay. Pick up a mural tour map at the Morro Bay Visitors Center.
Weekly Farmer’s Market
A weekly farmer’s’ market is held in Morro Bay every Thursday from 2 pm - 4:30 pm. The market is part of the San Luis Obispo Co Famer’s Market Association. Local vendors from as far north as Salinas and as far south as Goleta are regular attendees at the farmers market. Take a walk among the various local produce stalls and craft vendors, taking in the salty sea breeze as you shop. There’s no fee to walk around, but we know you’ll probably leave with some fresh produce after taking a look at the stands throughout the market. The farmer’s market is located off Highway 1 in the parking lot of Spencer’s Fresh Markets in Morro Bay.
Morro Bay Estuary Nature Center
The Morro Bay Estuary Organization is dedicated to improving and preserving the Estuary around Morro Rock. They have several outreach and education programs in the community to help residents understand the importance of this watershed. They have an exhibit on the Embarcadero in downtown Morro Bay that’s free for visitors. At the nature center, visitors can learn all about the Morro Bay Estuary, its wildlife, and the organization’s efforts to protect it. There is also an aquarium with local native wildlife like Eelgrass and Steelhead Trout. The nature center also has binoculars for viewing the wildlife that calls the Morro Rock Estuary home.
See all of the free things to do in Morro Bay while staying at the Blue Sail Inn
The Blue Sail Inn, located in the heart of downtown Morro Bay, is a beautiful place to stay and explore California’s Central Coast. When you stay with us, you’re within walking distance of downtown Morro Bay and the area’s attractions.
