Morro Bay

Morro Bay is a coastal city in California. It's known for Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound at the end of Morro Rock Beach. The rock sits within Morro Bay State Park, home to lagoons, trails and a bird-rich saltwater marsh. Morro Bay State Park’s Museum of Natural History features exhibits on ecology and local Native American culture. Trails lead up Black Hill for views over the city and Morro Bay.
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Allan Watt's 🦔 Morro Bay, California
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Top places to visit

4.8
(773)
4.5
(2162)
Mentioned on 
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Morro Rock, a striking 581-foot volcanic plug, serves as a majestic sentinel at the entrance of Morro Bay Harbor in San Luis Obispo County, California. This ancient geological formation not only enhances the stunning coastal scenery but also offers visitors an array of outdoor activities. The surrounding area boasts beautiful beaches and a vibrant waterfront downtown that invites exploration.
Morro Rock, a State Historic Landmark, was formed about 23 million years ago from the plugs of long-extinct volcanoes. Beautiful sight, great place to see local wildlife. Wonderful beach!
Andrea G — Google review
Oh my gosh, I was absolutely blown away by this! It was like seeing a cartoon character’s jaw drop in awe. The contrast between the water and the scene was just breathtaking. You absolutely must stop by and check it out. You can dip in the water, stroll along the charming beach town, or just take in the stunning views. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Tam H — Google review
Escaping the heat at home, Morro Bay was perfect in every way. The temp was warm, breeze was gentle and soothing. The water but my feet like a perfect pedicure.... soothing and relaxing. I am reborn this evening, on this hot California day
Danelle L — Google review
I love Morro Rock, I come visit here every single time I’m in the area. I have years worth of photos of the rock and with me in front of the rock. I don’t know why it’s just one of my favorite things. I love to get food at Lil Hut and just park here with my fiancé to eat and talk. my favorite spot
Victoria B — Google review
Great photo op, beach, and bathroom. Free parking. Small tour boats in area. Nearby strip of waterfront restaurants with shopping.
Daniel G — Google review
This was a Bucket list Road trip with my sister. Very beautiful day. Also surfboard competition going on, that was something new for me.
Tina — Google review
Had an amazing time at Morro Rock today! The view was breathtaking, the ocean breeze was perfect, and the wildlife made it even more special. Can’t wait to come back and enjoy this beautiful spot again!
Kristina M — Google review
Such an amazing place to visit. Less crowded, clean, accessible.
Nine2-5traveler — Google review
Morro Bay, CA 93442, USATips and more reviews for Morro Rock
4.7
(427)
4.4
(310)
Mentioned on 
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Morro Strand State Beach is a serene and picturesque stretch of coastline that offers a variety of activities for visitors. From picnicking to fishing, windsurfing, and kite flying, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The beach also provides stunning views of Morro Rock and is conveniently located near Cayucos, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Morro Bay area. The state beach includes well-equipped campsites with RV hookups, scenic picnic areas, and barbecues.
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 J — Google review
This beach looks a bit rough. Big waves that are beautiful but I wouldn’t go in swimming. There was also fishy smell, and I am not sure where it comes from. The Morro Rock looks pretty. It was windy.
Tiina — Google review
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 K — Google review
Beautiful place. Parking is free and plentiful in the off season. There’s a sand path from the parking lot to the beach and would require a beach wheelchair if you use a chair
Caty W — Google review
Walked the entire length of this beach north and south. Some of the best beach walking anywhere in the US. Spent sunrise and a sunset in the area, never got the clouds I wanted but still fantastic. Many shorebirds, Willets, Marbled Godwits, plovers, and brown pelicans and amazing reflections. That Rock!
Jared G — Google review
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 E — Google review
Good campground, friendly staff, no showers though
4641HECA — Google review
Had so much fun! Love this beach!
Karma L — Google review
4.7
(1617)
4.4
(499)
Mentioned on 
State park
Museums
Morro Bay State Park, situated on the shores of Morro Bay lagoon in western San Luis Obispo County, is a nature reserve with stunning natural landscapes and the iconic Morro Rock. The park offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, sailing, bird-watching, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can also explore the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History to learn about the region's cultural history and natural features.
I've never used the campground. I have however walked through the area and have been told by many campers that they absolutely loved it. You are in located in one of the most beautiful areas in California. Within driving distance of restaurants museums and hiking trails with some of the most beautiful scenery on the central coast.
William B — Google review
We recently visited Morro Bay State Park, and it's a truly unique destination. A helpful tip: if you're following Google Maps, it might tell you you've arrived right after the golf course, but you actually need to drive a bit further into the park to reach the main areas. Compared to other state parks, especially those along the highway, this one truly stands out for its calm waters, making it exceptionally well-suited for kayaking and paddleboarding. It's also a fantastic place to observe geological wonders. The iconic Morro Rock stands majestically in the distance, out in the bay, adding to the picturesque scenery. The park is also great for RV camping. There's a small museum within the park, which is free for children. If you're not planning to stay overnight or camp, about an hour is a good amount of time to explore and enjoy the park's offerings. Overall, Morro Bay State Park offers a peaceful and engaging experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy water activities or simply appreciate the natural beauty and unique landscape.
Ahn J — Google review
I enjoyed visiting and hiking all around this park. From the boardwalk at the estuary down at sea level to the tops of morros, the Black Hill and the Cerro Cabrillo Peak trail, the views are beautiful, the atmosphere is misty and rest inducing, the wildflowers and the birds are plentiful revealing a healthy environment all around.
Elena R — Google review
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 E — Google review
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 T — Google review
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 S — Google review
This is a very popular campground with access to the beach and harbor. There are multiple restrooms and showers located around the campground. Keep in mind that coastal weather can be somewhat unpredictable or have a large temperature swing.
Tino P — Google review
Beautiful seaside views when the fog lifts, well maintained course, with a driving range, good café that offers lots to eat, friendly staff, lots of parking
Mary H — Google review
4.6
(581)
4.6
(245)
Mentioned on 
Local history museum
Museums
Nestled in the heart of Morro Bay, adjacent to the picturesque Morro Bay State Park, the Museum of Natural History offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With interactive ecology exhibits, nature walks, and docent-led tours, this small yet impressive museum showcases cultural history, geology, and oceanography.
It's a nice little children-oriented museum situated on one of those rocky morros. The views of the estuary, sand dunes, and Morro Rock are great from here. I found the information useful and helpful.
Elena R — Google review
Took six - and seven year old grandchildren here. They really enjoyed it! It is a hands-on museum for children . You can configure about 40 minutes' time here. The views around the museum are gorgeous. Adults only $3. Children under 17 are free.
Gina T — Google review
Nice little museum to explore for just $3! The virtual reality show is a fun highlight, especially for kids. It’s a cozy and interesting spot to spend 30–40 minutes indoors when the weather is too breezy or cold outside.
Naveen N — Google review
This is a fun little museum filled with ecological and history facts. It's especially great for kids, they have a lot of kid activities. There are great views of the ocean and Morro rock from the museum. They have a huge whale skeleton on display that was really cool. Their gift shop is cute and has some cute souvenirs. The museum is normally $3 but I went on a free day. Parking is free.
Brittanie H — Google review
Nice to escape from daytime heat. Kayak rental at next small marina. You can watch sea otto. Being successfully protect and thrive, I'm joking to worry about end of era of clam chowder. We can't compete clam harvest against to them.
Kenny K — Google review
Amazing views, friendly staff, and the gentleman at the beginning was very kind and informational. Only $3 to tour the museum, but the museum itself was lacking. The first few steps in were about Morro Bay, but the rest felt like a lecture on environmentalism. Still, gorgeous location with stunning views!
Sarah — Google review
Only $3! Great location, beautiful view, very informative, gift store, clean bathrooms, kid & adult friendly.
F G — Google review
This place was cool never been there so I was excited. It’s small but so much info
Jessica R — Google review
4.6
(320)
4.2
(58)
Mentioned on 
Maritime museum
Museums
Military Museums
The Morro Bay Maritime Museum, located across from Anchor Memorial Park, showcases a collection of retired sea vessels including a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle, a San Francisco tugboat, and a Coast Guard rescue boat. Visitors can get up close to these vessels for photo opportunities and learn about their history through informative displays. Although the museum building is still under construction, the maritime history of Morro Bay is on display with these intriguing exhibits.
Very nice and interesting outdoor maritime displays. The small one room museum is free of charge but they recommend a $5 donation per visitor. I'm guessing that the maritime museum is run by volunteers. If so, they are doing a great job at it! The displays are very well taken care of. The outdoor signage on the displays were not faded at all. You can tell that whoever set up the museum and put items on display were very devoted and passionate. Very nice stop while visiting Morro Bay.
Ronald S — Google review
This was a great little stop for some information about the maritime history of Morro Bay. Rob was tending to and working the gift shop/ museum and he was so kind. He answered our random little question, gave us some recommendations, and showed us videos they had available to view about the town and fisherman. The museum had coast guard vessels, a dragon boat, submarine, different examples of knots. It was just really cool and right on the water. We even checked out the refurbished boat that was featured in the 5 min film that we watched. Thank you!
Kiana D — Google review
⚓🛥️ Review: Morro Bay Maritime Museum – Anchored in History, Buoyant in Spirit 🌊📚 🚢 A hidden gem with a heart full of saltwater stories. The Morro Bay Maritime Museum is small but mighty like a tugboat packed with tales of adventure, innovation, and coastal pride. 🧭💙 🏛️ Exhibit Highlights: - 🛶 Dorian: The tiny lifeboat that crossed the Pacific yes, really! - 🚀 Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle: Looks like sci-fi, but saved lives in real sea missions. - 🚤 Coast Guard vessels: Up close and personal with the guardians of the coast. - 📺 Interactive displays and models that make maritime history feel alive and splashy. 🧓👦 Family-Friendly & Fascinating: - Kids can climb aboard real vessels and imagine life at sea. - History buffs will geek out over the local lore and naval tech. - Volunteers are passionate, welcoming, and full of salty wisdom. 🧓🧂💬 📍 Location Perks: - Right across from Morro Rock so you get epic views with your education. - Easy to pair with a harbor stroll or seafood lunch. 🪨🍤🚶‍♂️ 💡 Why It’s Worth Docking: - It’s free (donations welcome), quick to explore, and rich in local flavor. - You leave with a deeper appreciation for the brave souls who’ve faced the sea and the quirky vessels that carried them. ⚓🧡 🌟 Final Wave: The Morro Bay Maritime Museum is proof that big stories can live in small spaces. Drop anchor here you’ll sail away inspired. ⛵📖🌊
Stinger T — Google review
The museum is very small yet full of history and the two males in there were very nice and knowledgeable. I believe they volunteer. There is a lot of parking g space and admission is free however donations are welcome. There are boats and submarines. Children are welcome and they are allow to get into the attractions. It is clean and wheelchairs can be accommodate. Be respectful and enjoy!
Belica D — Google review
Very small maritime museum that has interesting indoor and outdoor displays. Volunteers are personable, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable about the local history. No entrance fee, donations appreciated
Marie C — Google review
Morro Bay Maritime Museum. This place is my favorite place. There was no fee but the place was amazing. It had a lot of boats and boat-related stuff 🛶. On one of the boats, you could go inside the engine inside the boat and have a good look at it. It was very cool. This is a great place to just drop by have some fun and enjoy. The customer service is really chill. Overall if you find your way back from the engine room it is one of the best places I’ve ever seen. It was just excellent 👌.
Laks S — Google review
This is such a hidden gem. The people running the museum are so warm and friendly and happy to share local history, and the exhibits outside are fantastic (there's one about knots, one about how block and tackle works)! Highly recommend visiting and supporting this local treasure :)
Katharine N — Google review
FUN time. Thankful for this generous non-profit for preserving intriguing maritime history. Small enough to absorb the info. Mr. Steele was quite friendly, welcoming. Location perfect. Sunny, breezy.
Ya- Y — Google review

Top places to eat

4.6
(1498)
4.7
(1839)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Seafood restaurant
Situated in a waterfront location, The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar boasts an island-inspired ambiance and specializes in crafting delectable seafood dishes using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Chef Henry Galvez meticulously selects herbs and onions from his family farm in Los Osos to ensure the freshest, pesticide-free produce for an enhanced dining experience. Guests can savor freshly caught fish or indulge in succulent filet mignon wrapped in bacon.
This is hands down our favorite date night spot. The atmosphere is relaxing yet classy, the service is excellent, and the food is fantastic. The staff are all incredibly kind and helpful, and they are always willing to check items for my gluten allergy . Since most everything is made in-house, there are no hidden ingredients. And the food NEVER disappoints! Their specials are fantastic, so be sure to ask! I keep hoping they'll bring back that salmon polenta special....
Annlenae J — Google review
Husband and I were seated out on the enclosed deck which gave us the beautiful view without the breeze. I ordered the appetizer of scallops, there were 3, perfectly cooked and the flavor was amazing. Husband had the sword fish, naked, and it was delicious and tender. He also ordered the orange vanilla Old fashioned and loved it!! Service was excellent!!
Katie H — Google review
We were seat upon entering. What catches you is the ocean view. Our server was Gina & Mekenzie which were absolutely amazing. They were always there when we needed them. We ordered the Pan Seared Chicken, Crab cakes and Clam Chowder, King Salmon mixed vegetables with Garlic Mash potatoes and Ahi Poke Bowl with a Cam chowder bowl. For desert Crème Brûlée & Mud Pie. The food was absolutely scrumptious Normally I have to have hot sauce with my meal. This food needed no extra anything. Oh my goodness so so good. The Clam Chowder was full of Clams it was delicious. Hats off to the Chef and cooks. We definitely will make it back when we're in the area.
Roddri A — Google review
Loved the Alaskan Halibut. The mashed potatoes was perfection too, home-made tartar sauce as well. everything was balanced and not overpowering other ingredients. it was so good! service was really good. I recommend this place ❤️
Tina B — Google review
I’m not a big seafood person, but the swordfish was amazing. Our waitress Kelsey was so accommodating and knew just the right sauce pairings. 10/10 will eat here again. Great place for a fancy date night
Leah E — Google review
Amazing meal!!! I started with the clam chowder. Family recipe since 1966! So good!! My husband and I had the special blackened rockfish AMAZING!! we had dessert today chocolate torte it was very good. We ordered a bottle of wine which was excellent Zenato Pinot so that added $36 to the food bill.
Kelley J — Google review
My partner and I spent the day in Morro Bay and came by this restaurant on our stroll along the coast. The staff was friendly and welcoming. We were seated after waiting for 20 minutes- what's good about this location is you were able to go for a stroll and enjoy the views while waiting. Pros: the views and service were both great Cons: the overall food quality does not match the cost Both my partner and I were quite disappointed in the quality of the food. My partner ordered the shrimp scampi- shrimp was overcooked and chewy, and both the shrimp and pasta were not flavourful. I ordered the halibut with mashed potatoes and vegetables. I enjoyed the halibut and mashed potatoes as they were both decently seasoned, but the seasonal vegetables were bland and undercooked. Our whole meal, with 1 soft drink came up to nearly $125 (tip and tax included). Quite steep for a meal that was underwhelming and nothing too unique about it.
Erica C — Google review
A five star dining experience. The salmon and the crab cakes were wonderful. We were watching sunset while enjoying our dinner. Our server was very friendly and recommended a Chardonnay that perfectly accompanied our fresh fish. We will certainly return should we (hopefully) be in the Morro Bay area.
Walter R — Google review
4.5
(1955)
4.4
(728)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Taco Temple in Morro Bay is a popular casual taco shop known for its generous portions and wide selection of seafood dishes. Recently featured in Sunset Magazine, it's a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. The menu boasts an array of gourmet Mexican options, including fresh halibut, blackened scallops, fried calamari, and crab cake tacos. In addition to seafood choices, there are also vegetarian and meat options like sweet potato enchiladas and crispy carnitas platters.
A MUST stop if you are in the area (or even 30 miles away). Come hungry. Portions are sizable and quality is still high. We came for the carrot cake (which may be on the wonders of the world) but the burritos and tacos were excellent. The woman serving us in the dining area was incredibly friendly and helpful, ensuring we had everything we need. Ah and the salsas were also great.
Jim K — Google review
I didn't eat in, but did order there and waited. They greeted me as soon as I arrived and waited while I decided what to have since this was my first time. The cashier was friendly and answered all my questions. I ordered a combination plate which included a cheese enchilada, Carne asada taco, chili rellano and it came with black beans, rice and salad. It was all very good. Unfortunately the bag fell on the floor so things got a little mixed up, but it was still good. Price was a bit spend, but everything is nowadays. I would definitely eat here again.
Scott L — Google review
Food - 1. Chicken Enchiladas sauce was not what I expected 2. Shrimp Taco and Halibut taco were good but lacked spice and salt 3. Loaded Nachos are amazing Pros - 1. Ample parking 2. Really nice place to relax and enjoy good Mexican food
Golokesh P — Google review
We’ve been going to Taco Temple for 30 years or more. When in the Morro Bay, Taco Temple is a must! Seriously!! Their fish tacos, many varieties of fish, are more like a big salad. Fresh and yummy food. It’s really hard to go wrong with whatever you choose. They have beer and wine. Good place to either eat in or take out.
Randy N — Google review
Great food (HUGE and delicious burritos), lots of complimentary chips...and all the other food we saw going out looked great too.
Charles B — Google review
Eyes WAY bigger then my stomach. We came a little hungry so we each orderd our own meal plus an appetizer. I've ordered the baja tacos many times but usually carry out. Today we ate inside and the portions were enough for an entire family!! 4 GIANT filets with enough salad to feed 18 rabbits. The fajita plate my hubby ordered was equally abundant. Normally a side of fried pickles is maybe 4-5 spears. Oh no... this seemed like an entire JAR!! I had to put the fork there to give a comparison to the size!! We are camping nearby and the leftovers will make a delicious steak omelet in the morning!! $50 for dinner AND tomorrow's breakfast!! Next time, just one item and we'll split it!!
Marcia S — Google review
Excellent! Salmon tacos, sweet potato enchiladas and white sangria. Would order it all again! Counter ordering and dear yourself inside or outside. Very generous portions requiring to go containers all round. Two nicely seasoned salmon pieces with great salad and dressing and mango salsa. Nice Verde sauce on the sweet potato enchiladas. Those could have been heavier on the potatoes and lighter on the onions but still great flavor. Sadly, no chocolate bread pudding to review! Would definitely come back here!
Anna W — Google review
Delicious fish tacos, fresh poke & amazing service! Perfect lunch stop on our roadtrip!
Monica G — Google review
4.5
(521)
4.4
(594)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Seafood restaurant
Restaurant
Windows On the Water offers a dining experience with Californian, French, and Mediterranean influences in a stunning waterfront setting. Located on the second floor, the restaurant provides breathtaking views of Morro Bay's harbor through its numerous windows. The panoramic vista includes sights such as Morro Rock and Montana de Oro, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a farm-to-table meal at sunset. The menu features a selection of Californian and Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on seafood and locally-sourced organic produce.
We had an awesome dinner here with fantastic food, superb view and excellent service. We had the pear salad, crab cakes, sand dabs and the butterscotch creme brulee. Absolutely fantastic!!! It was all so good we wanted to come back the next night and order it all again. Highly recommend!!! It's not cheap but it was one of the best meals we've ever eaten.
C J — Google review
My husband and I had dinner one Thursday night here while we were on vacation. We made a reservation the day before without a problem. We requested a reservation 30 minutes before sunset so we could ensure we would be able to see while having dinner. The restaurant is on the second floor. There are stairs and an elevator available. We were seated by a window with the most gorgeous view. We ordered oysters (from the Pacific) and Brussels sprouts as appetizers. My husband had their soup of the day. It was all delicious. The oysters were fresh and cleaned well. The brushless sprouts were flavorful and crunchy. My husband enjoyed his soup too. For main courses, my husband ordered the NY steak. It was cooked to perfection. It was very tasty and the portion being 12 Oz was filling. I ordered the local black cod and I was over the moon. I usually don't enjoy cod but since I didnt translate the name of the fish to Spanish (I know fishes by their Spanish name), I ordered based on the menu description. I'm so glad I did that. I guess I had never had cod cooked the right way before because it was fantastic. I still think about that dish. Finally, we ordered the lemon mousse for dessert. It was creamy, sweet, and tart. It was the perfect ending to our dinner. The service was perfect too. Our server was welcoming, had great recommendations, and came by at the right times. We didn't feel overwhelmed but also we didn't feel neglected. It was just right. We would 100% visit again!
Laura G — Google review
The food was a mix, few dishes were good, few missed the mark. The steak was very dry, chewy and not up to the mark. The view is very good as the name suggests. Service is quick, prices are on a slightly higher side but not exorbitant.
Sankha H — Google review
We always go out of our way to make it to Windows on the Water when we visit the coast. The food is always great! And the views for sunset are perfect.
Kristel E — Google review
The food were great, service was quick, and attentive. Seafood were fresh, reasonably priced. The place inside is small compared to other restaurant in the same area. But they have outside seating, good depending on the weather. Parking is difficult. We had clam chowder, clam pasta, and Today's special Ahi.
Kain T — Google review
First time there. Had to make reservations for dinner on a Saturday so my boyfriend and I dressed nice for a date night. The place had great atmosphere, excellent lighting and the wait staff were very nice and professional. I was, however, disappointed that they didn't have any sort of dress code. We are local and were bummed to see people there in sweatshirts and flip flops, like they just walked in from the beach, when we had to make our dinner reservation a week prior. We had the steak and the halibut. The steak was a perfect medium rare and had wonderful flavor. The halibut was also cooked perfectly but was paired with cooked spinach and together did not compliment well. I ate the halibut and was very pleased with it and finished the spinach separately. All in all it was a nice experience and the food was good and we will be back.
Shannon S — Google review
Windows on Water is a charming restaurant with a beautiful view of the bay. The service is good, and the restrooms are clean. However, when it comes to the food, it clearly does not live up to the price. I tried the scallops with mandarin, mushrooms, and fried bacon for the first time. It was certainly inventive, but I prefer my bacon cooked with eggs, and it was overpriced. I also had the halibut, which was overcooked and completely tasteless. The chef didn't use any spices, neither salt nor pepper. For $200 for two people, I expected more. Unfortunately, being a tourist spot, the restaurant doesn't seem to rely on the return of tourists.
Yuriy P — Google review
Food was quite good. Fish was a touch overdone but that didn’t stop me from eating all of it haha Our server didn’t know a ton about the wine or the oysters but everything was enjoyable nonetheless! The mousse dessert was a definite highlight and we got the arrogate dessert as well. Delicious meal! Spent $200 on the halibut, 1/2 dozen oysters, pizza, a bottle of wine, dessert and two dessert martinis. We feel it was worth the price for sure! We would return here
Shameenah R — Google review
4.5
(2466)
4.3
(1124)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Dorn's Breakers Cafe is a family-owned and operated bayside eatery in Morro Bay, offering a timeless tradition since its opening in 1942. Despite not being directly on the water, every seat boasts a respectable view of Morro Rock. The menu focuses on fresh, local seafood such as oysters and calamari sandwiches but also includes New York steak, pasta dishes, salads, and soups.
I always look forward to having breakfast here when in Morro Bay. During our last visit, I ordered a bacon & cheddar cheese omelette with a side of buttermilk pancakes. The side of potatoes or homemade muffins are also delicious but I was craving the pancakes this time. The restaurant is dog friendly as long as you don't mind sitting on the patio. The service was fast and friendly.
Jason B — Google review
This is one of my go to places for dinner in Morro Bay (I hear bfast is very good as well). The food, service, view and prices are all top notch for this casual restaurant. The outside heated patio has a great view of the rock, but indoor window front seating works as well. A nice bar up front is a great spot for a drink, etc as well as a large outdoor front area to wait for a table. Like most spots in morro bay, Dorns closes at 9pm, but I never feel rushed here.
M M — Google review
My wife had the salmon and I had the calamari. Both were excellent! Arguably the best we've ever had. The service was exceptional! Even though it's a block off the water, the hilltop view was great. Dorn's will definitely be our "go to" dinner restaurant when in Morro Bay!
Robert M — Google review
We had a great breakfast at Dorn's Breakers Cafe! The view of Morro Rock from the restaurant is absolutely amazing a perfect start to the day. The portions were huge and everything we ordered was delicious. I had the huevos rancheros, which were full of flavor, and my husband enjoyed the eggs Benedict. We also shared the special French toast, and it was delicious too. Overall, a great breakfast spot with good food and beautiful views. Highly recommend!
Brisa R — Google review
My husband and I had an amazing dinner here celebrating our 13th wedding anniversary. The staff was friendly and on top of everything, the atmosphere was nice but nothing too stuffy or fancy. It’s overlooking the water and iconic Morro Bay Rock, with outdoor patio seating and an abundance of window views from inside. There’s also a full bar, and the cocktail and wine list has a nice variety. We had the calamari appetizer which was perfectly and lightly battered. It came with what seemed like house-made Cocktail sauce and tartar sauce. The freshness really makes a difference. For main courses, I had the scallops and my husband had the clam linguine. It’s hard to say which one I liked better! The portions were generous and everything was so delicious. I was shocked at how many clams were in the linguine dish! To finish, they gave us a celebratory Chocolate Mousse, also freshly made in house, and it was literally the perfect way to end the meal - so light and fluffy, but full of flavor! This is definitely our new favorite spot when we’re in town. The breakfast and lunch menus look great online too.
Jennifer R — Google review
Great place to eat on Morro Bay. The steak & ahrimp was cooked perfectly. Blackened sole was peppery but no overwhelming. Service was friendly & professional. There was a 30 minute wait and I could see why. Popular place because the food is excellent
James C — Google review
The bread was amazing. The shrimp and crab salad was very good. The sole was very nice pieces of white fish, but the fish was very bland and lacked flavor. The service was exceptional and the view of the water was great.
Steve's S — Google review
Stopped in for breakfast and it was lovely. We sat outside and had a beautiful view of Morro Rock. Food was excellent and fresh. Service was great as well. Best breakfast we had in Morro Bay!
Elizabeth W — Google review
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Bayside Cafe is a waterfront restaurant located on the Los Osos side of the Morro Bay Estuary, offering stunning views of Morro Rock and the pristine estuary habitat. Since its opening in 1986, it has been a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy traditional American cuisine with a touch of Mexican favorites.
Beautiful location with great service. You are right on the water. The food was solid. The California chowder was excellent ( lots of clam and the green salsa gives it a great taste) The burger looked very good. I was a little disappointed with my turkey avocado sandwich. Not much avocado and sourdough bread was disappointing. Nice portion of turkey. Side Cesar salad was delicious.
John E — Google review
This was a great find just on the outer edge of downtown Morro Bay, and well worth it. Outside seating is perfect with plenty of optional umbrellas…inside seating as well. I suggest splitting the tacos and or massive nachos…oh and 20oz beers on tap, yes please! Very reasonable prices, excellent service and tons of parking. Lunch/dinner but closes early so check times. Here’s an idea: hike the path up to top of Black Hill for great views, then wind your way down thru the state park and cross the street to a marina. The walk back to town is great as well.
M M — Google review
The food here was amazing. It's right next to the harbor so the seafood is incredibly fresh. There is seating inside and out with great views of the harbor. My only complaint is the restrooms are not inside the restaurant but about a 3 minute walk from the restaurant.
Sierra M — Google review
We ordered the fish and chips, cod tostada (menu special) and the mud pie. It was all amazing! Fast service and good views. Would love to come back.
Sarah W — Google review
We had a great lunch at the Bayside Cafe today! Our food was delicious! My husband had a bacon cheese burger and I had a french dip. Yum!!! The portions were generous. The view was beautiful. We received excellent service.
Tothetrailsandbeyond — Google review
Camping in the state park campground, basically on the same property, just a small road in between, this was a great find! The food was amazing - pics don't show how beautiful they were when served because we had already been eating them. Nachos delicious and unbelievably generous with toppings - the house-made corn chips delicious! The green chili soup in the sour dough bowl was a special treat! Server Vera was a delight!! My only disappointment was the number of dogs in outdoor seating, which was close proximity. We always sit outside when that option exists, but chose inside here due to the number of dogs; for a dog-skittish person, this was quite intimidating. Otherwise, a really nice experience.
Mj T — Google review
I love Everything about this place. I've been coming here since I was a kid and each time it's been a great experience and As a "tourist" its always appreciated. The Food is absolutely delicious, most notably the Sourdough Bowl California Chowder but Whatever you decide to order is a guaranteed treat! The servers have always been polite and informative and that view nesr the water is absolutely perfection. Especially with that morning fog just peering above the water. Just grab a coffee and enjoy the fresh cool air. Bayside Cafe is ALWAYS a must stop when I visit Morror Bay.
Junior P — Google review
At the edge of the estuary walk paths, ample parking, laid back seaside dining indoors with large windows or patio with umbrellas..the clam chowder is excellent with a variety on the menu and daily specials..most important is the staff..attentive, happy, efficient
Mary H — Google review

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