Hazard Canyon Reef
Discover vibrant tide pools and adventurous hiking trails with breathtaking ocean views at Hazard Canyon Reef.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tide pool viewing
Hazard Canyon Reef
Best Time
Best for tide pool viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover vibrant tide pools and adventurous hiking trails with breathtaking ocean views at Hazard Canyon Reef.
"Awesome view at the top! A must if you're in the area."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes for exploring the trails and rocky tide pool areas. :athletic_shoe:
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Visit during low tide for the best access to tide pools and their hidden marine life. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tide Pool Exploration
Along the coastline
Discover fascinating marine life like hermit crabs and baby eels in the natural tide pools.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Bluff trails
Embark on an adventure with trails offering breathtaking ocean views and challenging climbs.
Coastal Photography
Various viewpoints
Capture stunning autumn frames and dramatic sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide Pool Treasures & Hiking Trails
Wildlife & Coastal Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes for exploring the trails and rocky tide pool areas. :athletic_shoe:
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Visit during low tide for the best access to tide pools and their hidden marine life. :ocean:
⚠️ Trail Advisories
Be aware of potential trail closures due to storm damage; check local updates. :warning:
🚫 No Surfing Here
This spot is known for sharks, not waves. Surf at Morro Bay instead. :surfer:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes for exploring the trails and rocky tide pool areas. :athletic_shoe:
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Visit during low tide for the best access to tide pools and their hidden marine life. :ocean:
⚠️ Trail Advisories
Be aware of potential trail closures due to storm damage; check local updates. :warning:
🚫 No Surfing Here
This spot is known for sharks, not waves. Surf at Morro Bay instead. :surfer:
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this beautiful natural area clean by taking all your trash with you. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hazard Canyon Reef to be a visually appealing area with great hiking trails and stunning ocean views, especially during autumn sunsets. While some found it 'okay' and didn't stay long, others highly recommend it for its scenic beauty and accessibility for beginner hikers. However, it's important to note that it's not a surfing spot and is known for sharks.
"A fun area! I liked taking pictures and the big hills are an adventure."
Olivia Falk
"Hazard Canyon Reef was ok, we didnt stay long.
If my review helps you in any way can you PLEASE leave me a thumbs up like on my review. Thank you."
American Flag
"Great place , even for beginner hikers. Has one restrooms . Recommend.
Please pick up after yourself. :)"
Alejandro Corrales
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hazard Canyon Reef is located near Morro Bay, California. Access is typically via car, with parking available near the trailheads. Many visitors arrive as part of a scenic drive along Highway 1.
Yes, there are parking areas available, often near the trailheads. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Public transport options are limited in this coastal area. It's best to have a car for convenient access to Hazard Canyon Reef and surrounding attractions.
Many visitors enjoy driving the scenic Highway 1 and stopping at Hazard Canyon Reef for hiking and tide pooling.
Yes, there is at least one restroom facility available for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hazard Canyon Reef is a natural area and typically does not require an entrance fee or tickets for general access.
As a natural coastal area, Hazard Canyon Reef is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
No, there is no admission fee to enter and explore Hazard Canyon Reef.
While generally accessible, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to best enjoy the scenery and tide pools.
Typically, no special permits are required for day hiking at Hazard Canyon Reef. However, always check for any local regulations or advisories.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot fascinating marine life in the tide pools, such as hermit crabs and baby eels. 
+1
Tide pool access depends on the tide level. Visiting during low tide is crucial for exploring them. Some trails leading to coves might be affected by storm damage.
The trails can be adventurous, with some offering challenging climbs and great views. They are suitable for beginner hikers as well.
No, Hazard Canyon Reef is not recommended for surfing. It's known for great white sharks and lack of waves. Surfers should head to Morro Bay.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, and a camera. Check tide charts before you go.
📸 📸 Photography
The bluff trails offer stunning ocean vistas, and the coastline is ideal for capturing dramatic sunsets and autumn scenes. +1
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for landscape and scenic photography. +1
Yes, you can photograph the marine life in the tide pools and any wildlife you encounter. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Hazard Canyon Reef.
A camera with good zoom capabilities for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The hiking trails are generally accessible for beginner hikers, making them suitable for family outings, though some may find them adventurous. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for any distant wildlife sightings. The autumn months also add a unique palette to the scenery. 🚶♀️ Nature & Wildlife Lovers
+1 Keep an eye out for sea otters in the surrounding Morro Bay area, as they are often seen grooming or playing. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tide Pools
+1 It's a fantastic opportunity for families and nature enthusiasts to observe marine biodiversity up close. Remember to tread carefully to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem and wear appropriate footwear as the rocks can be slippery.When planning your visit, checking the tide charts is essential. Aim for the lowest tide possible to maximize your exploration time and reveal the most marine creatures. Some Reddit users have noted that access to certain tide pool areas, like those previously reached via the bluff trail at Montana de Oro, can be impacted by storm damage and closures, so it's wise to check for any current advisories.
Hiking Adventures and Coastal Views
During autumn, the area transforms with beautiful colors, making it a prime spot for cinematic photography and capturing stunning sunsets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit