Morro Dunes Natural Preserve
Morro Bay, CA
Morro Dunes Natural Preserve protects a stretch of dune habitat as part of the larger Montaña de Oro State Park system, a genuinely undeveloped corner across the bay from the more visited Morro Rock area. It's a quiet stop for anyone interested in the dune ecosystem specifically.
A genuinely intact dune ecosystem for anyone specifically interested in that, though it doesn't offer much for a typical beach visit.
How we score beachesThis is a niche stop for dune habitat specifically, most visitors are better served by Montaña de Oro's beaches further south for a typical beach day.
No fee, though the CCC records no formal parking area; check current signage.
Trails cross the dune habitat.
Dogs are not allowed at Morro Dunes Natural Preserve, which protects nesting shorebirds and fragile dune habitat.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of the Morro Bay coast.
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