Morro Rock, California

Morroc Rock is one of 13 volcanic plugs lie between Morro Bay and Islay Hill in California. The Morrow Rock in Morrow Bay is one of biggest attractions in that area. The 581ft rock is protected as the Morro Rock State Preserve. The rock is composed of dacite, volcanic and petrified bird feces. Morro Rock considered a mysterious place to Salinan and Chumash tribes. In Spanish, Morro means “Crown Shaped Hill”.

It is believed that explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo find the Morro Rock in 1542 and named it “El Morro”. The time goes on, and it becomes a favorite place for birds, made a nest on them, including gull species, cormorant, peregrine falcons. Sea otters and sea lions are commonly seen at Morro Rock. Also, one can see hermit crabs, coral, starfish, small fishes, sea cucumbers, bivalve mollusks, mussels, and much more.

On the surrounding of the bay, kelp plant forest, sea grass, tide pool plants, mosses, weeds, and lichens are surviving. So, it is an affordable place to spend some time there and observe the close-by nature. In winter, it is a popular place for bird watching, kayakers, kite flying, hiking, ocean-side golf, fishing, and surfers.

One of the most popular hikes in Sequoia National Park composed of classic 350 steps hike. You cannot climb to this granite dome as it is protected to falcons who made nest over there.  One of nine sisters of rocks extended from Morrow Bay to San Luis Obispo hills came into existence from volcanic activity. A causeway was built in 1933 with material blasted from rock slope to make all of them accessible.

Morro Rock Beach, or Morro Rock formed somewhere 23 million years ago from long volcanic plug extinct. The gorgeous natural setting offers picturesque scenes for photography. Almost 3.5 Southside round trip is a great opportunity to satisfying your day with a scenic view.

Many benches are available along the way to sit and relax for a while. The sunset view is so amazing, hard to miss if you are anywhere in the area. Moreover, one entertaining aspect of this area to find numerous squirrels approaching you without any problem.