Morro Strand State Beach

Morro Strand State Beach is a coastal stretch in San Luis Obispo County along the Pacific Ocean with white sand and dunes beside Morro Rock, a volcanic formation. The beach extends for several miles with multiple access points and designated areas for surfing.

The area became protected as a state beach in the 1960s as part of California's coastal conservation efforts. This designation helped shield the sand and dunes from excessive development and kept it open to the public.

The Chumash and Salinan peoples relied on this coastline for thousands of years to harvest fish and gather food. The place still reflects their deep connection to the ocean and the resources it provided.

The beach is easily accessible through several parking areas and offers restrooms, picnic tables, and lifeguards during peak season. Early morning visits typically offer better parking availability, especially on weekends and in warm months.

The beach sits on a natural migratory corridor where seasonal birds stop during their journeys. This makes it a valuable spot for watching birds, particularly during migration and wintering periods.

Location: San Luis Obispo County

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=593

GPS coordinates: 35.37583,-120.86306

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42