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Morro Bay is a beautiful town, but like all seaside port cities, you must get on the water to fully appreciate it. And one of the best things about hitting the water in Morro Bay is getting the chance to see some of the area's most famous residents--our friendly sea otters, sea lions, seals, and whales.
There are plenty of boat tours in town, but here are four marine life tours in Morro Bay CA that are worth checking out.
4 Best Marine Life Tours in Morro Bay CA
The protected waters of Morro Bay are teaming with life. The estuary here is formed where Los Osos and Chorro creeks meet the Pacific. The brackish water is a nursery for many species of fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals. Head out the inlet into the open Pacific and the area is one of the premier whale watching spots in America. Both Gray and Humpback Whales are often spotted in the area.
The bay is home to lots of friendly animals. You will surely see sea otters playing and tons of birds. You're guaranteed to see the sea lions sunning themselves on the rocks and docks around the harbor. The area is also home to the harbor seal, which are smaller than the sea lions and have smaller front flippers.
Sub Sea Tours
Sub Sea Tours has several wildlife viewing cruises. Cruise the harbor on their yellow glass-bottom boat and come face to face with fish, friendly sea otters, and sea lions. They also have Dos Osos, a 24-seat catamaran that can take you on a whale-watching expedition.
Lost Isle Adventures Harbor Tours & Whale Watching
Lost Isle Adventures has a fleet of boats ready to take you on a Morro Bay adventure. For a unique twist, check out their tiki cruise on an island-themed pontoon boat. Cruise the bay in a relaxed way, learning about the area's history and meeting the local sea otters and sea lions. You can also book the tiki boat for sunset cruises or private charters!
Lost Isle also has a go-fast tour boat ready to take you whale watching. You will have the best chance of seeing these magnificent creatures in their element on this 90-minute tour.
Captain Stew's Bay Cruise
Captain Stew's at Morro Bay Landing operates the Little Miss Magic, a 25-passenger catamaran perfect for cruising the bay. Captain Clive is a master of these waters and will point out all the birds, fish, seals, and sea lions. Some trips also stop at the sand spit where you can hunt for sea shells, have a picnic, or do a little fishing. He also offers sunset cruises and private charters.
You can book Little Miss Magic right on their website. Captain Stew also operates several fishing boats that are offered on whale watching tours during various times of the year.
Toast the Coast
Toast the Coast offers harbor cruises on a luxury motor yacht. You can book a trip for anything, from private charters to weddings or parties. But it's a great way to book a whale-watching trip or sea excursion. The 40-foot boat is spacious and comfortable. All tours include a captain, steward, your choice of cocktails, and two free tastings at DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles.
This type of trip has a completely different feel. All trips are private charters where you book the entire boat, not purchase a seat. Only up to six passengers are allowed so you won't sit next to strangers. Instead, you'll have a private cruising experience and lots of time to spend looking for your favorite sea critters.
Have a Whale of a Time in Morro Bay
Morro Bay is such a beautiful area. So after you've done some land adventures, don’t miss the other top sights in Morro Bay.
