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As you continue, the iconic Morro Rock grows larger on the horizon, a volcanic plug that stands 576 feet tall and marks the entrance to Morro Bay Harbor. The walk is relatively flat and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect outing for families and casual hikers. Along the way, you might spot local wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, and a variety of seabirds.

Once you arrive at Morro Rock, you have the choice to enjoy all the pleasures of Morro Rock Beach that stretches to the north, or continue exploring the base of the rock to the south. On this adventure we chose to continue along the walking path, and discovered a whole new way to experience Morro Bay. Here the path changes to hard sand, but is still easy for the entire family to walk. You’ll get to see the mouth of the harbor as you continue along the path, and watch the boats come in and out. Towards the end of the trail you’ll find Morro Rock Ecological Preserve, where you can learn more about Morro Rock and the birds and animals and inhabit the area. There is also a smaller, quiet beach where you can play in the sun and sand, and even fish!

📍TRAILHEAD 📍
Beach Street & Embarcadero, Morro Bay

🥾LENGTH 🥾
2 Miles

〽️ ELEVATION 〽️
Mostly Flat

↩️TYPE ↪️
Out & Back

💡PRO TIPS 💡
🦮 Dogs on Leash OK
🚵‍♂️ Biking Allowed
☀️ No shade
🚗 For a shorter walk, park at Morro Rock

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Known for its farm-to-table approach, Lunada emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the flavors of California’s Central Coast. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a family lunch, or a romantic dinner, the bistro’s garden setting provides a perfect backdrop. With an emphasis on seasonal dishes and an inviting, cozy outdoor space, Lunada Garden Bistro is a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a unique dining experience that reflects the coastal charm of Cayucos.

Lunada Garden Bistro was established to bring fresh, California-inspired cuisine to the heart of Cayucos. The restaurant, housed in a quaint building with a large garden patio, has become a community favorite since its inception. The vision behind Lunada was to create a space where guests could enjoy high-quality, homemade dishes in a relaxing and natural setting. Over the years, Lunada has earned a reputation for its commitment to using local produce, offering a menu that highlights the best ingredients from nearby farms and coastal waters.

Lunada Garden Bistro offers a well-curated menu that showcases the best of California’s Central Coast. Their weekend brunch features a wide variety of options including a Crunchy French Toast covered in corn flakes, a Seafood Omelette with shrimp and scallops, and Chilaquiles that can be topped with carne asada.

The Lunch menu expands to include a range of burgers, sandwiches and salads that are just as unique and delicious as their brunch offerings. The Apple Pie Burger is one of those options that should not be missed, which features an Angus beef burger topped with cheddar cheese and an onion-apple relish with onion rings.

For dinner, guests can enjoy a variety of entrées that focus on seasonal flavors. Favorites include the French Style Duck, Rack of Lamb, or Surf & Turf that can be paired with Shrimp Scampi or Lobster Tail. Their wine list is also carefully selected, featuring local and regional wines that pair well with their dishes.

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Rasmussen prides itself on crafting wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Paso Robles region. With a focus on sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention, Rasmussen Winery produces a range of red and white varietals, emphasizing quality over quantity. The tasting room provides a personal, laid-back setting where visitors can enjoy the fruits of the Rasmussen family’s labor while learning about the winemaking process directly from the owners. With its friendly atmosphere and carefully crafted wines, Rasmussen Winery is a delightful stop for wine lovers looking for a more intimate Paso Robles experience.

Rasmussen Winery is known for producing a variety of high-quality wines that reflect the diversity of the Paso Robles AVA. Their portfolio includes both red and white wines, with a particular focus on bold, expressive reds. Their Zinfandel, for example, stands out for its deep, rich flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of pepper, which are characteristic of the region. Rasmussen also produces a well-balanced Syrah, featuring a harmonious blend of fruit, tannin, and acidity. The winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon is another standout, offering layers of blackberry, cassis, and oak, with a long, elegant finish. For white wine lovers, their Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity and notes of green apple and citrus. Each wine is crafted with care, reflecting the Rasmussen family’s dedication to the art of winemaking.

The Paso Robles AVA (American Viticultural Area), where Rasmussen Winery is located, is renowned for its ideal growing conditions, especially for red varietals. Spanning over 600,000 acres, this region is known for its warm, sunny days and cool nights, thanks to the nearby Pacific Ocean. These temperature fluctuations allow for a longer growing season, which helps grapes develop complex flavors while maintaining balanced acidity. The area’s diverse soils, ranging from clay to limestone, provide unique mineral characteristics that are evident in the wines produced here. Paso Robles is home to over 40 different grape varieties, making it one of the most versatile wine regions in California. This diversity, coupled with the region’s dedication to sustainable farming and innovation in winemaking, has put Paso Robles on the map as a premier wine destination.

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One of the most anticipated events at Castoro Cellars is the annual Whale Rock Music Festival. Held every September, this two-day festival has become a staple in the Central Coast’s cultural calendar. What began as a small gathering has grown into a major event that attracts music lovers from all over California and beyond.

The Whale Rock Music Festival features a diverse lineup of artists and bands, showcasing a range of genres from rock and reggae to folk and blues. The festival is named after the iconic whale-shaped rock located on the Castoro estate, adding a unique touch to the event’s identity.

In addition to the stellar music performances, the festival offers a variety of activities and attractions. Food trucks serve up a delicious array of dishes, from gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizzas, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Craft beer and wine from Castoro Cellars are available, allowing attendees to enjoy their favorite beverages while soaking in the music.

The festival also emphasizes family-friendly fun, with a dedicated kids’ area featuring activities like face painting, arts and crafts, and games. This inclusive approach makes the Whale Rock Music Festival a truly community-oriented event, where people of all ages can come together to celebrate music, art, and the joys of life.

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Cambria Scarecrow Festival
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Morro Bay Witches Paddle
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Cambria Christmas Market
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