Morro Strand State Beach
A serene coastal escape with expansive sandy shores, iconic Morro Rock views, and direct beach camping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters and fewer crowds
Morro Strand State Beach
Best Time
Calm waters and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal escape with expansive sandy shores, iconic Morro Rock views, and direct beach camping.
"Escape to the quieter side of the beach, where you can walk, run, or simply enjoy peaceful bird watching and the soothing sounds of the surf."
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is available in a small lot, but it can fill up quickly. Arrive early for the best spots.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Areas
Dogs are not allowed on the main beach section but are welcome on the scenic path alongside the shore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Morro Rock Views
Visible from the beach and campground
Iconic volcanic plug offering dramatic coastal scenery and a backdrop for stunning photos.
Sea Otter Sightings
Along the coast and near the bay
Keep an eye out for playful sea otters, often spotted near the shore and in the bay.
Sand Dollar Hunting
Along the shoreline
The soft sand dunes are perfect for beachcombing, with a high chance of finding beautiful sand dollars.
Sunset Spectacles
Western horizon over the Pacific
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the ocean, a perfect end to a beach day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Vibe
Camping & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is available in a small lot, but it can fill up quickly. Arrive early for the best spots.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Areas
Dogs are not allowed on the main beach section but are welcome on the scenic path alongside the shore.
🌊 King Tides & Waves
Be aware of potential king tides and large waves, especially after storms. Swimming may be hazardous. +1
🏕️ Campground Bookings
Book your campsite at Morro Strand State Beach Campground in advance, especially for RV spots with hookups. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is available in a small lot, but it can fill up quickly. Arrive early for the best spots.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Areas
Dogs are not allowed on the main beach section but are welcome on the scenic path alongside the shore.
🌊 King Tides & Waves
Be aware of potential king tides and large waves, especially after storms. Swimming may be hazardous. +1
🏕️ Campground Bookings
Book your campsite at Morro Strand State Beach Campground in advance, especially for RV spots with hookups.
🦭 Wildlife Watching
Keep an eye out for sea otters and other marine life. Remember to observe from a safe distance. +1
🐚 Sand Dollar Treasures
The dunes are a prime spot for finding sand dollars. Look after storms for the best luck.
🚶♀️ Beach Walks
Enjoy peaceful walks along the beach, especially in the quieter sections away from the main park entrance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Morro Strand State Beach for its beautiful, expansive shoreline, abundant sand dollars, and the iconic views of Morro Rock. The campground is a highlight for its direct beach access and coastal ambiance. However, some note the strong waves make swimming difficult, and the lack of showers at the campground is a drawback for some.
"Escape to the quieter side of the beach, away from the state park entrance, where you can walk, run, or simply enjoy peaceful bird watching and the soothing sounds of the surf. (Dogs are not allowed in this section.)
For those with bikes or furry companions, a scenic path runs alongside the shore.
You'll find free parking in a small lot."
Erin Kelley
"Such an amazing beach. Love the soft sand of the dunes as the beautiful backdrop for the beach. It's especially awesome because you can find TONS of sand dollars!!!"
Alison Jones
"I REALLY don’t want any one else to show up here, but it is a great place to camp - esp if you want to run or bike into town. Close to cambria too."
Paul Egermeier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Morro Strand State Beach is located in Morro Bay, California. You can reach it via Highway 1. The beach has a small, free parking lot. For those coming from Los Angeles or San Francisco, it's a scenic drive along the coast. +1
Yes, there is a small, free parking lot available at Morro Strand State Beach. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! A scenic path runs alongside the shore, making it a great destination for biking. It's also a convenient spot to bike into town.
Yes, the Morro Strand State Beach Campground accommodates RVs, and some back-row sites even offer full hookups.
The beach offers direct access, especially from the campground. You can also enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the shore to reach different sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Morro Strand State Beach itself does not typically have an entrance fee for day use. However, the adjacent campground has a fee, which is around $35 per night.
Morro Strand State Beach is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The campground has specific check-in and check-out times, typically 2 PM for check-in and 11 AM for check-out.
Day use at the beach does not require reservations. However, if you plan to camp at Morro Strand State Beach Campground, reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the California State Parks website.
Generally, you can bring typical beach items like chairs, umbrellas, and coolers. Dogs are not allowed on the main beach but are permitted on the scenic path.
You can find information and make reservations for the Morro Strand State Beach Campground on the California State Parks website (parks.ca.gov/morrostrand) or by calling 805-772-8812 or 805-772-6101.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include picnicking, fishing, windsurfing, kite flying, beachcombing for sand dollars, and enjoying scenic walks. The beach is also a great spot for bird watching.
While beautiful, Morro Strand State Beach can have strong waves and currents, making swimming potentially hazardous. It's best to exercise caution or opt for other water activities. +1
Yes, Morro Rock is prominently visible from Morro Strand State Beach, offering a picturesque backdrop for your visit. +1
No, there are no showers available at the Morro Strand State Beach Campground. However, the bathrooms are generally clean.
You might spot playful sea otters near the shore and in the bay, various seabirds, and if you're lucky, marine mammals. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly on Morro Strand State Beach. However, the nearby Embarcadero in Morro Bay offers a variety of dining options, including seafood restaurants and clam chowder spots. +1
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Morro Strand State Beach. There are areas suitable for setting up a picnic, and you can enjoy the ocean views while you dine.
The Embarcadero in Morro Bay has many eateries. TikTok creators recommend spots for clam chowder and fresh seafood. +1
There are no food services available directly at the Morro Strand State Beach Campground. It's advisable to bring your own food and supplies or plan to dine in Morro Bay.
Head to the Morro Bay Embarcadero for fresh seafood, oysters, and local specialties. Many places offer great views of the bay. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Morro Rock provides a stunning focal point for photos. Sunsets over the Pacific are also incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The soft light of early morning or late afternoon can also be beautiful for capturing the beach's serene atmosphere.
Look for sea otters playing in the water, the vastness of the dunes, and the unique Velella Velella (By-the-Wind Sailors) that sometimes wash ashore.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline and Morro Rock. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, like sea otters.
Drone usage is subject to California State Parks regulations. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring along beach toys and snacks, as amenities are limited on the beach itself. The scenic path is also ideal for family bike rides or walks. Keep an eye out for wildlife like sea otters, which can be a thrilling sight for children. Remember to pack layers, as coastal weather can change quickly.
🏕️ Campers
+1Be aware that showers are not available, so plan accordingly. Booking your spot in advance is highly recommended, as it's a popular destination. Enjoy the sound of the waves and the convenience of being steps away from the beach for morning walks and sunset viewing.
🚗 Road Trippers
Consider camping overnight for a more immersive experience, or simply stop for a few hours to enjoy the beach, spot wildlife, and take in the views of Morro Rock. The free parking makes it a convenient and budget-friendly stop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Morro Strand State Beach
+2Campers often rave about the sound of the waves lulling them to sleep and the convenience of being able to walk or bike into Morro Bay. It's a popular choice for families and those looking for a quintessential California coastal camping experience. The proximity to other attractions like Cambria and San Simeon also makes it a strategic base for exploring the region.
When planning your stay, consider the time of year. Summer mornings can be pleasant, while autumn offers beautiful light. Be prepared for coastal weather, which can be windy and cool, even in summer. Checking the weather forecast and dressing in layers is always a good idea.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the charismatic sea otters, the beach and its surrounding dunes are rich with birdlife. Keep an eye out for various shorebirds foraging along the water's edge. Occasionally, large numbers of Velella Velella, also known as By-the-Wind Sailors, can wash ashore, creating a unique visual spectacle.
Remember that these are wild animals, and it's important to observe them ethically. Avoid feeding them or disturbing their natural habitat. The presence of such diverse wildlife adds an extra layer of magic to the Morro Strand State Beach experience.
Coastal Conditions and Activities
Despite the potentially rough surf, the beach offers plenty of other joys. The soft sand dunes are perfect for leisurely walks, and many visitors report finding an abundance of sand dollars, making it a popular spot for beachcombing. The scenic path running alongside the shore is ideal for biking or a more relaxed stroll, offering continuous ocean views.
The beach is also a great place for bird watching and simply enjoying the soothing sounds of the surf. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, exploring the quieter sections away from the main park entrance is recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit