
Windy Cove
Coastal haven with serene bay waters, abundant wildlife, and scenic trails, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds

Windy Cove
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Coastal haven with serene bay waters, abundant wildlife, and scenic trails, perfect for outdoor adventures.
"A peaceful and engaging experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy water activities or appreciate natural beauty."

🦭 Otter Spotting Tips
Look for otters in the bay, especially in the morning. Patience is key!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Easy trails are plentiful. Wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Morro Rock Views
Morro Bay
Iconic volcanic plug offering dramatic coastal vistas and a sense of place.

Sea Otter Spotting
Morro Bay Estuary
Delight in watching playful sea otters in their natural habitat.

Windy Cove Trail
Morro Bay State Park
A scenic, easy walk with bay views and abundant native birds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦭 Otter Spotting Tips
Look for otters in the bay, especially in the morning. Patience is key!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Easy trails are plentiful. Wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Layer Up!
It can get breezy! Pack layers for changing coastal weather. :cloud:
🚗 Parking Advice
Follow signs carefully; Google Maps might lead you astray.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦭 Otter Spotting Tips
Look for otters in the bay, especially in the morning. Patience is key!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Easy trails are plentiful. Wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Layer Up!
It can get breezy! Pack layers for changing coastal weather. :cloud:
🚗 Parking Advice
Follow signs carefully; Google Maps might lead you astray.
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Great for exploring the calm bay waters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Morro Bay State Park for its serene atmosphere, beautiful bay views, and abundant wildlife, particularly sea otters. The easy trails and calm waters for kayaking are frequently highlighted as positives. Some campers note the presence of raccoons, advising secure food storage.
"A very pleasant not too long walk on the trail at Morro Bay State Park today. Easy walk, all flat terrain. Beautiful views of the bay and native birds all along. Plenty of benches to stop and “meditate” if you wish.
And of course not to be forgotten the Bayside Cafe with amazing food is right there at the other end of the parking lot."
laura Etheridge
"My husband and I just spent two days camping at Morro Bay State Park and had an absolute blast! This is definitely going to be our new favorite spot. We even had a surprise visit from a raccoon in the middle of the night, so be sure to store your food and belongings safely to keep the critters out."
Jillian Thomas
"Def in our top 5 favorite places to camp along the central coast. Beautiful night sounds from the estuary,hiking trails and walking distance to kiyaking and natural history museum. Friendly staff. Trolley that runs during summer to take you into town. Only 5 to 10 mins from grocery store/dollar tree."
Kelsey Nicole Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Windy Cove is located within Morro Bay State Park. If using GPS, be aware that it might direct you past the main park entrance after the golf course. Continue further into the park to find the main areas and trails.
During the summer, a trolley service operates from Morro Bay State Park into town, offering a convenient way to explore without a car.
Many visitors enjoy driving along Highway 1 to access different points of interest. For exploring the bay itself, kayaking and paddleboarding are highly recommended due to the calm waters.
Yes, parking is available within Morro Bay State Park. Follow the park's signage to designated parking areas near the trails and attractions.
Morro Bay State Park is well-equipped for RV camping, offering spacious sites for larger vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Windy Cove is part of Morro Bay State Park. While general access to the park and trails is often free, there may be fees for camping or specific activities. It's best to check the official California State Parks website for the most current information.
Morro Bay State Park is generally open from dawn to dusk for day-use activities. Campground hours may vary. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, children often have free access to the small museum within the park. Check for any potential senior or disabled person passes if applicable.
Yes, booking camping spots in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as Morro Bay State Park is a popular camping destination.
The Natural History Museum within Morro Bay State Park is free for children. Adults may have a small admission fee, but it's generally considered a worthwhile visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Windy Cove offers opportunities for hiking on scenic trails, bird-watching, enjoying the bay views, and spotting local wildlife like sea otters and seals.
Yes, the Windy Cove Trail is an easy, flat 1.0-mile loop offering beautiful views of the bay and native birds.
You can often spot sea otters, seals, and a variety of native birds in the bay and surrounding areas.
Absolutely! The easy trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and proximity to the Natural History Museum make it a great spot for families.
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the Windy Cove Trail, but not at the Museum of Natural History Trail.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Bayside Cafe is located at the end of the parking lot at Morro Bay State Park and offers amazing food. You can also find various dining options in the nearby town of Morro Bay.
Morro Bay is known for its delicious seafood. You can also find bakeries and casual eateries.
Picnicking is a great option! There are benches along the trails, and you can bring your own food to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Frankie and Lola's is a recommended spot for a meal. Sun and Buns Bakery is also a good option for treats.
Campers can utilize their own cooking facilities or visit nearby restaurants. Be mindful of food storage to prevent wildlife encounters.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of Morro Rock, the bay's calm waters, native birds, and if you're lucky, sea otters. Sunsets over the bay are particularly beautiful.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical lighting for photography, with incredible reflections on the water.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive bay views, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the park. However, always be respectful of other visitors and wildlife.
Drone usage is typically restricted in California State Parks. It's essential to check the specific regulations for Morro Bay State Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Morro Bay State Park
For those looking for a longer adventure, the Museum of Natural History Trail provides additional exploration opportunities. The park is also a popular destination for RV camping, with spacious sites and clean facilities, making it a favorite for many along the central coast. Campers should be aware of potential wildlife visitors, such as raccoons, and ensure all food and belongings are stored securely.
Beyond the immediate park grounds, the iconic Morro Rock stands majestically in the distance, a volcanic plug that serves as a prominent landmark. The surrounding area is also known for its vibrant marine life, with frequent sightings of sea otters and seals. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply enjoying the views, Morro Bay State Park offers a peaceful and engaging coastal experience.
Wildlife Encounters in Morro Bay
The calm waters of the bay and the surrounding estuary create a rich habitat for a wide variety of native birds. Birdwatchers can find numerous species, making the park an excellent location for observation. Keep an eye out for waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors as you explore the trails.
While wildlife encounters are a joy, it's important to be prepared. Raccoons are known to visit campsites, so securing food and belongings is crucial to prevent unwanted interactions. Observing wildlife responsibly ensures that these animals continue to thrive in their natural environment for generations to come.
Coastal Adventures and Activities
For those who enjoy hiking, the Windy Cove Trail provides an easy and scenic route with beautiful bay vistas. The park also offers opportunities for whale watching tours, especially during migration seasons, where you might spot gray whales, humpbacks, and other marine mammals.
Morro Bay is also a fantastic destination for fishing and sailing, with charter options available for those looking to spend time on the water. The scenic beauty of the coastline, including the iconic Morro Rock, makes it a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor adventure.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit