Morro Strand State Beach Tours

Morro Strand State Beach
Morro Strand State Beach featuring general coastal views and a beach
Morro Strand State Beach showing waves and general coastal views
Morro Strand State Beach showing a beach and tranquil scenes
Morro Strand State Beach which includes tranquil scenes and a sandy beach


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.

Plan a trip to see Morro Strand State Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat and Spa
Melrose Rooftop Boutique Residences
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Morro Strand State Beach

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
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
Holland Inn & Suites

Holland Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
2630 Main St, Morro Bay, CA
Holland Inn & Suites
Masterpiece Hotel

Masterpiece Hotel

2.5 out of 5
1206 Main St, Morro Bay, CA
Masterpiece Hotel
Hampton Inn Morro Bay

Hampton Inn Morro Bay

3 out of 5
295 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay, CA
Hampton Inn Morro Bay
Rhapsody in View Boutique Hotel

Rhapsody in View Boutique Hotel

2 out of 5
2790 Main Street, Morro Bay, CA
Rhapsody in View Boutique 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
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!
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.
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.

Things to do near Morro Strand State Beach

Experience the natural beauty of Morro Strand State Beach with activities like birdwatching, camping, and enjoying stunning sunsets. The beach offers tent campsites, perfect for a beach getaway, along with picnic tables for relaxing meals. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby sandspit beach and consider taking a boat tour for a unique perspective of the coastline. Whether you're looking to unwind or explore, Morro Strand has something for everyone.

Food and drinks

At Morro Strand State Beach, indulge in sweet treats from Brown Butter Cookie Company, just 4 miles away. For a romantic night, visit Niner Wine Estates, 14 miles away, or enjoy craft beers at Firestone Walker Brewing, 17 miles from the beach, offering great entertainment vibes.

Shopping

Morro Strand State Beach offers a quaint shopping experience with local shops and boutiques. If you're up for a drive, visit Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Madonna Plaza Shopping Center, both 14 miles away, where you can enjoy a mix of city vibes and family-friendly entertainment.

Recreation

Experience the Morro Bay Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery. For relaxation, head to Hardie Park, offering tranquil spaces perfect for unwinding. El Chorro Regional Park, with its serene environment, is ideal for rejuvenating walks and connecting with nature.

Adventure

The Giant Chessboard, located 3 miles from Morro Strand State Beach, offers a fun and interactive experience for visitors. For hiking enthusiasts, the Valencia Peak Trail and Bluff Trail, both 9 miles away, provide breathtaking scenery and an adventurous atmosphere in the great outdoors.

Nightlife

At Morro Strand State Beach, you can enjoy a vibrant nightlife with options like the Fremont Theater and Performing Arts Center, both 14 miles away, showcasing films and cultural performances. Don’t miss the Sunset Drive-In Theatre, 15 miles away, for a nostalgic movie experience under the stars.

Find the best attractions near Morro Strand State Beach

When visiting Morro Strand State Beach, explore the stunning Morro Rock, a prominent landmark. Enjoy the sandy shores at Morro Bay Beach and Morro Rock Beach, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. For a taste of local culture, don't miss the nearby urban parks and preserves that highlight the area's natural beauty. This coastal gem offers a variety of experiences for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.

  • Morro Rock: Standing majestically 2 miles from Morro Strand State Beach, Morro Rock is a striking volcanic plug that offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the scenic coastline. It's a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
  • Cayucos State Beach: Just 4 miles away, Cayucos State Beach is a charming stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and surfing. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect destination to unwind and soak up the sun while enjoying stunning ocean views.
  • Morro Bay State Park: Located 4 miles from Morro Strand, this state park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and water activities, it offers adventure amidst beautiful scenery, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Morro Strand State Beach

To save money on your trip to Morro Strand State Beach, visit during the off-peak months of November to January for lower accommodation rates. Enjoy free entry to the beach and nearby attractions like Morro Rock and Morro Bay State Park. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best prices, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities to maximize savings, and take advantage of Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and offers.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Morro Strand State Beach are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Morro Strand State Beach about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and special offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Morro Strand State Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.