Seaside village just 3 hours from LA is California’s ‘coolest’ small town — perfect for a fall weekend escape

Who says fall in California can’t be cozy?

The Golden State may have more palm trees than pumpkins, but this small town escape makes for the perfect fall destination.

Just a three hour drive north from Los Angeles, picturesque Morro Bay along California’s Central Coast is full of stunning vistas and a small town feel. The unique destination was previously named California’s coolest small town by BudgetTravel, who called it “unlike any other California seaside town.”

“For travelers who seek local wine, fresh seafood and adventures filled with wildlife watching and iconic coastal experiences, look no further than Morro Bay,” BudgetTravel wrote.

The seaside city’s most iconic attraction is Morro Rock, a 576-foot-tall volcanic rock at in the town’s harbor. While the area around the rock is open to visitors, climbing its steep surface is strictly prohibited. The ancient rock was made a historical landmark in 1968.

Surrounding the rock is Morro Bay State Park. The park’s lagoon is perfect for birdwatching, sailing, and fishing.

The Embarcadero, the town’s waterfront harbor, is dotted with restaurants like seafood spot Kicker’s, and other small businesses like kite shop Beachfront Kites, Surreys & More.

Along the coast, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, whale watching, kite-flying, and surfing.

The village even has its own mascot. Morro Bay is known for its small but mighty population of around 70 southern sea otters, which can be seen during the summer.

But if you miss the otters, there’s still plenty of unique wildlife at the Morro Dunes Ecological Reserve, including  the endangered Morro shoulderband snail, the tiny Morro Bay kangaroo rat, and a range of reptiles, birds, amphibians and butterflies.

A stay in the San Luis Obispo County town won’t break the bank. With view of Morro Rock, a night at The Landing Hotel ranges from $99 to $250 a night.

The town is also conveniently located near other tourist destinations, from the iconic Hearst Castle to vineyards in Edna Valley. Annually, Morro Bay hosts the Avocado & Margarita Street Festival in September and the Morro Bay Bird Festival in January.

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