Morro Strand State Beach - Morro Bay, California

Address:Morro Bay, California

You'll find your basic beach water and sand at Morro Strand State Beach, but that's definitely not the main attraction. Morro Strand State Beach is a split beach lined with grass and trees, a habitat for the Western Snowy Plover and the Peregrine Falcon, and a beautiful spot to pitch a tent and unpack a picnic. The wind swept beach attracts surfers, windsurfers, and fishermen alike, as well as families who just want to dip in the water for a quick swim or fly a kite. Dogs are also welcome, but only if kept on their leashes (because of the Snowy Plovers).

The Morro Rock State Historic Landmark is another reason why visitors choose to visit the Morro Strand State Beach. The Morro Rock, also called the Gibraltar of the Pacific is a massive 576 foot navigational aid, discovered by Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542. He named in El Morro, "Morro" meaning crown in Spanish. The huge rock is now a bird sanctuary for the Peregrine Falcon.

Morro Strand State Beach, near the town of Cayucos, is located in Morro Bay and is surrounded by Yerba Buena and Toro Creek. Lacking crowds, Morro Strand State Beach serves virtually as a private beach and is a great getaway for locals and foreign visitors alike.