Morro Bay: Paso Robles to the Pacific

Photo © Alice Joyce

On a day-trip detour from my immersion in Paso Robles Wine Country

I drove from Paso to Highway 41, following its path SouthWest to the Pacific Ocean.

Morro Rock – Photo © Alice Joyce

Continuing south along Coast Highway One, passing through Cayucos, Morro Bay emerges as a city with the casual ambiance of a small beach town enlivened by tourism.

Morro Bay Photo © Alice Joyce

The Morro Bay State Park is a relaxing spot to enjoy ocean vistas, people watching, and a bit of beachcombing, while the bay offers a commanding approach to Morro Rock and numerous photo ops of the iconic form. Check out Google maps for intriguing satellite views of the park and the rock.

Quieter still and beautifully serene is the lagoon area’s saltwater marsh, a place where nature buffs will want to spend time identifying the many shorebirds. Just past the marina you’ll find the parkland’s Museum of Natural History.

Morro Rock Marina Photo © Alice Joyce

Morro Rock may have been named by a Portuguese explorer because of its similarity to the turban of a Moor: El Moro. Another theory is based upon the Spanish word – morro – meaning pebble, or used in reference to similar mountain formations. The town has a rich history, reaching back in time to the Chumash Indians. If you’re planning a trip, visit morrobay.org to find news and special event listings.

More on my Paso Robles Wine & Food Sojourn on Alice’s Garden Travel Buzz