
Baywood Park Pier
A serene pier in Morro Bay's back bay, perfect for quiet reflection, birdwatching, and enjoying nature's calm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Baywood Park Pier
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene pier in Morro Bay's back bay, perfect for quiet reflection, birdwatching, and enjoying nature's calm.
"The perfect spot to breathe in the calm of the bay and hear the silence of nature."

binoculars for birdwatching
Bring binoculars to spot the diverse birdlife in the wetlands. :bird:
Check the tide charts
Essential for kayaking and exploring the wetlands. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baywood Park Pier
Morro Bay's Back Bay
A quiet, quaint pier offering serene views of shallow wetlands and small boats. Perfect for birdwatching and meditation.
Sweet Springs Nature Preserve
Adjacent to Baywood Park
Explore short, beautiful trails through diverse natural habitats. A peaceful extension of the Baywood experience.
Back Bay Cafe
Near the pier
A charming local spot for coffee, tea, and goodies. A perfect stop to refuel before or after exploring the pier.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Tide and Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
binoculars for birdwatching
Bring binoculars to spot the diverse birdlife in the wetlands. :bird:
Check the tide charts
Essential for kayaking and exploring the wetlands. :ocean:
Pack a picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal with bay views. :sandwich:
Visit the Back Bay Cafe
Grab coffee and treats at this quaint local spot. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
binoculars for birdwatching
Bring binoculars to spot the diverse birdlife in the wetlands. :bird:
Check the tide charts
Essential for kayaking and exploring the wetlands. :ocean:
Pack a picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal with bay views. :sandwich:
Visit the Back Bay Cafe
Grab coffee and treats at this quaint local spot. :coffee:
Explore nearby Sweet Springs
Short, beautiful trails for a nature walk. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Baywood Park Pier's serene and peaceful atmosphere, calling it a hidden gem away from the typical tourist crowds. It's praised as a perfect spot for relaxation, birdwatching, and enjoying the quiet beauty of Morro Bay's back bay. Some note the charm of the nearby cafe and the opportunity for kayaking.
"Very cool area, most Morro Bay visitors miss out on this area. If you drive down South Bay Blvd. toward Los Osos don't miss this area. There is a cool painted bear here, I posted a photo and more of the area from the street. Looks like a good restaurant nearby but I didn't eat there"
Jim Lohse
"Beautifully quaint little pier right at shoreline of Morro Bay with quiet shallow wetlands and its small boats off the beaten path of tourism. This is just the perfect spot to breath in the calm of the bay and hear the silence of nature. I like to stop here to recharge and meditate."
Kay Weber
"Serenity, peacefulness, quiet, relaxing. Have a seat along the Back Bay pier of Morro Bay , watch the tide roll in or out. Or the fog creep in. Bring binoculars to spot the many kinds of birds doing the same.
Great place to put in for easy kayaking, but make sure you check the tide. Grab a coffee, or tea and goodies at the quaint Back Bay Cafe.
Walk or drive around to Sweet Springs park for more beautiful nature, and short trails. Enjoy."
Captain Jim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baywood Park Pier is located in the back bay area of Morro Bay. If you're coming from San Luis Obispo, take South Bay Boulevard towards Los Osos. The pier is a bit off the main tourist path, so keep an eye out for signs. It's a scenic drive that many visitors miss!
Yes, there is typically parking available near the pier and the Back Bay Cafe. It's generally less crowded than parking in downtown Morro Bay, making it a convenient option.
Public transport options to Baywood Park Pier might be limited. It's best to check local SLO transit schedules, but driving is generally the most straightforward way to reach this quieter spot.
The pier itself is generally accessible, but the surrounding natural areas and trails might have varying levels of accessibility. It's a good idea to check specific trail conditions if mobility is a concern.
Navigate towards Los Osos via South Bay Boulevard. Look for signs for Baywood Park or the Back Bay Cafe. It's a peaceful area away from the main Morro Bay drag.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Baywood Park Pier and the surrounding park areas are free to access. It's a public space meant for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty.
Baywood Park Pier is generally open from dawn until dusk, like most public parks. The Back Bay Cafe will have its own operating hours, so check those if you plan to visit them.
There's no need to book anything in advance for a casual visit to Baywood Park Pier. It's a walk-in, enjoy-the-scenery kind of place.
Standard park rules apply, such as respecting wildlife and not littering. It's a peaceful spot, so visitors are encouraged to maintain the tranquility.
While specific leash laws can vary, dogs are generally welcome in many parts of Baywood Park, but always check local signage. Keep them on a leash to respect the wildlife and other visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks, birdwatching with binoculars, meditating, or simply sitting and watching the tide. It's a place to unwind and connect with nature.
Absolutely! The serene bay views, shallow wetlands, small boats, and potential for fog or beautiful sunsets make it a photographer's dream for capturing tranquil scenes.
Yes, it's a great spot to launch kayaks, especially if you check the tide charts. The calm waters of the back bay are ideal for paddling.
Restroom facilities may be available near the park or cafe area. It's advisable to check local park information or ask at the Back Bay Cafe.
The shallow wetlands are a haven for various bird species. You might spot shorebirds, waterfowl, and other coastal birds. Bringing binoculars is highly recommended!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most notable dining option is the quaint Back Bay Cafe, located near the pier. It offers coffee, tea, and goodies for a light bite.
The Back Bay Cafe is known for its coffee, tea, and various goodies. It's a charming spot for a casual refreshment rather than a full meal.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea! There are plenty of peaceful spots to enjoy a meal with a view of the bay.
While Baywood Park Pier itself is quiet, the larger Morro Bay area offers a variety of restaurants, from seafood to casual cafes, just a short drive away.
Operating hours for local cafes can vary seasonally. It's best to check their specific hours online or by calling ahead, especially outside of peak tourist season.
📸 📸 Photography
The pier itself, the tranquil wetlands, the small boats, and the reflections on the water are all fantastic photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets here are particularly stunning.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. However, the soft light of early morning or the moody fog can also create unique shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay views. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching and wildlife photography. A tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife, the reflections of the sky and boats on the calm water, and the unique atmosphere created by fog rolling in.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's crucial to check with the relevant authorities (e.g., FAA, local park services) regarding drone operation in this area before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment itself provides plenty of opportunities for exploration. Encourage kids to look for birds, interesting shells, or smooth stones. The pier offers a safe vantage point to watch small boats and the ebb and flow of the tide. It’s a chance for a low-key, educational experience that can be both fun and peaceful for the whole family.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
This is also a prime location for birdwatching and appreciating the subtle beauty of the coastal wetlands. The nearby Sweet Springs Nature Preserve offers gentle walking trails for a solitary stroll. Many visitors find this area incredibly restorative, a place to recharge and find inner peace away from the demands of daily life.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive bay views and a telephoto lens for detailed shots of birds. A tripod can be invaluable for capturing sharp images during the golden hours or in low-light conditions. The potential for fog rolling in adds another layer of dramatic beauty, so be prepared for various weather conditions that can enhance your photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tranquil Charm of Baywood Park Pier
This area is particularly appealing to those seeking a more authentic and laid-back experience. Unlike the main attractions, Baywood Park Pier feels like a local secret. It's a place where you can truly breathe in the calm of the bay and appreciate the subtle beauty of the coastal environment. The presence of small boats adds a picturesque element to the landscape, and the possibility of fog rolling in can create a wonderfully moody and atmospheric scene.
For those who enjoy nature, Baywood Park Pier is a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Bringing binoculars is highly recommended, as the shallow wetlands are a haven for a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl. The pier also serves as an excellent launch point for kayaking on the calm back bay waters, though it's wise to check the tide charts beforehand. The nearby Back Bay Cafe offers a convenient spot for a coffee or a light snack, rounding out the peaceful experience.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of the Back Bay
Adjacent to the pier is the Sweet Springs Nature Preserve, which offers a network of short, scenic trails. These trails wind through various natural habitats, providing opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna up close. It’s a perfect complement to a visit to the pier, allowing for a more immersive nature experience. The preserve is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a great place for a leisurely walk or a moment of quiet contemplation.
When planning your visit to this natural area, checking the tide charts is a practical tip that can significantly enhance your experience. Low tide can reveal more of the wetland ecosystem, while high tide might be better for kayaking. The changing tides also influence the bird activity, so understanding them can help you make the most of your wildlife viewing.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit