Escape to California's Best-Kept Secret

Image: PHOTO: A view of the Morro Rock from Montana de Oro State Park in Morro Bay, California. (photo via Flickr/Phil Price)

by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 6:00 PM ET, Wed November 15, 2017

Every now and then, it's a breath of fresh air to find a place that has a unique blend of timeless magic-where art and nature work together in perfect harmony.That place is Morro Bay on California's Central Coast.The picturesque seaside village along California's iconic Highway 1 sports miles of <a href="/news/destinations/cool-off-at-these-california-central-coast-beaches.html" target="_self">beaches</a> surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Though Morro Bay is just 30 minutes from famous Hearst Castle, <a href="/news/impacting-travel/traffic-returns-to-iconic-california-highway.html" target="_self">Big Sur</a> or the spectacular wineries of Paso Robles, a stay here brings its own delightful surprises.Morro Bay is still a working fishing village: Fishermen bring their catches in daily, and several restaurants have their own fleets. Business owners are creative, friendly and unpretentious. There's a strong sense of community here.

As visitors, we got to play a part in this real-deal piece of living, if only for a weekend. And it was enchanting.Where to StayFamily owned and operated <a href="http://www.embarcaderoinn.com/" target="_blank">456 Embarcadero Inn and Suites</a> was the perfect choice for our recent weekend visit. Its location right on the Embarcadero made it easy to just park the car and walk to most places throughout the charming coastal hamlet.Night-time lullabies come at no extra charge as we fell asleep to the distant sounds of barking sea lions and low mournful foghorns.Where to PlayIt's all about the outdoors in Morro Bay, and there are plenty of choices for nature lovers.Morro Rock is the most distinctive and recognizable landmark here. The iconic 576-foot towering edifice that separates the sands of Morro Strand State Beach from the azure waters of the harbor is often referred to as the "Gibraltar of the Pacific." It's also a habitat for once-endangered peregrine falcons.Like the otters that frolic in the Pacific bay waters, kayakers have some great opportunities to play in the bay too. And there's nothing like learning about this majestic water world than by taking a half-day kayak adventure tour with expert nature guides from <a href="https://www.centralcoastoutdoors.com/" target="_blank">Central Coast Outdoors.</a>Paddling through pristine waters, protected from the open ocean, the area is amazingly rich with marine and aviary life, so much so that binoculars are a must. More than 200 diverse species of birds are located here, along with a heron rookery, harbor seals, sea lions and otters.Secluded sand dunes and hidden beaches with stunning ocean views are just some of the splendor seen along this adventurous journey. Guaranteed, no one comes off this tour without smiles on their faces.Hiking is one of the best ways to get spectacular panoramas of Morro Bay from on high. We accessed Black Hill Trail from the campground of <a href="http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=594" target="_blank">Morro Bay State Park</a> for a moderate hike through low-lying clouds. Upon reaching the summit of Black Hill, we were rewarded with a captivating vista of the bay, sand spits and famous Morro Rock.The Morro Bay <a href="http://www.mbspmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Museum of Natural History</a> is the only of its kind in the California State Park system. Fascinating interactive exhibits make this an educational but fun place for kids and adults alike. Knowledgeable museum docents regale visitors with history and stories of the bay.Browsing through the Embarcadero's locally owned art galleries and boutique stores is also a treat. From a salt-water taffy store with 109 flavors to a skateboard museum, eclectic vintage stores, shell and surf shops, Morro Bay is like a throwback to simpler beach-town days.Locals and visitors all prefer it that way.Their "Naked Fish" policy is unique. The Galley believes premium seafood should be served naked, grilled, then served with the choice of light sauces on the side.After tasting the Ahi Tuna (Seared Rare) and Pan-Seared Scallops, we are in total agreement. The Galley's seafood is as good as it gets.Food presentation was impressive, portions were perfect and gourmet food restaurants should take note. It's no wonder this first-rate, quaint and classy seaside eatery has been packed to the gills since it opened in 1966.With spectacular views, splendid natural surroundings, a walkable Embarcadero, friendly locals in a fishing village setting, one can't help but wonder how much longer Morro Bay can stay a secret.It definitely goes down as one of our favorite California <a href="/news/destinations/a-perfect-rustic-weekend-in-carmel-by-the-sea.html" target="_self">weekend</a> escapes. But it's a secret too good not to share.