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A working fishing village, Morro Bay, California is the ideal weekend destination. Located almost half-way between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this beautiful town is famous for its impressive landmark, Morro Rock. Morro Bay is also one of the few remaining estuaries on the Pacific flyway. Here you will find a perfect stopping point for fun, relaxation, sightseeing, and shopping. In Morro Bay you can swing a club at a championship 18-hole golf course, paddle through the calm bay in a kayak, glide along in a sailboat, or take a nature walk on miles of unspoiled beaches while enjoying bird-watching. Over 220 species of birds are tracked here every January by the Audubon Society, making Morro Bay a bird- watchers paradise. Other local activities include biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, surfing, shopping, and dining in fabulous restaurants. If you love seafood then you will be spoiled in Morro Bay, known for its superb seafood cuisine and dining ambiance. Many of the restaurants on the Embarcadero overlook the serene Bay. Watch kayaks, sailboats, otters, and seals right out your window as you take in a breath- taking sunset behind the backdrop of the majestic Morro Rock. If you are traveling with children be sure to plan a visit to the Museum of Natural History which sits perched on the cliff overlooking the Bay. The interactive exhibits, na- ture walks, lectures, puppet shows, and more will delight young and old alike. Just outside of Morro Bay and only a short 20 minute drive away, you will discover one of Cali- fornia's most popular attractions, Hearst Castle. Sitting upon "La Cuesta Encantada" (the enchanted castle), this nearly 30 year project by William Randolph Hearst and architect, Julia Morgan, includes a 115-room main house, pools, guesthouses, and eight acres of gardens. A short 5-mile drive north on Highway 1 will take you to the home of one of California's largest populations of Elephant Seals. In and around Morro Bay there is something to please everyone. Be sure to stop by the Morro Bay Visitor Center, located on the Em- barcadero and overlooking the beautiful Bay. Here you find all the information you'll need to make the most of your visit. FEATURED CITY MORRO BAY 27 www.californiatravelcenter.com