Recently named one of the Best Small Towns in CA by Country Living Magazine, Morro Bay is an Instagramers dream, especially in October and November, aka Morro Bay’s Secret Season. With miles of beaches and an unavoidably beautiful 576-foot tall volcanic rock sitting at the front of a bustling harbor of sailboats, kayakers, otters, pelicans and sea lions, Morro Bay is the place to stay this time of year. Morro Bay’s Secret Season also coincides with Central Coast wine harvest found in nearby award-winning wine country. Fall harvest day tours are easily accessible from Morro Bay and many wine touring companies will pick up customers in front of their hotels. In celebration of the fall harvest Morro Bay hotels are adding a bottle of wine to your two-night stay during the month of October.
What is Morro Bay’s Secret Season?
“Secret season in Morro Bay is like an extended summer,”explains Jennifer Little, Morro Bay Tourism Manager. “We call it secret season because once October and November hit, our Mediterranean-like weather takes over with amazing sunrises and sunsets all to yourself, beautiful clear days and warm sun perfect for all things outdoors, beach picnics, harvest wine tours, weddings and let’s not forget, marriage proposals.”
Enjoy Local Wines Right on the Waterfront in Morro Bay
On the waterfront in Morro Bay you’ll find the Morro Bay Wine Seller, which offers a selection of local and regional wines for taste or purchase, along with specialty cheeses, olive oils and craft beers to pick up and take with you for that romantic picnic planned for your loved one. Don’t miss wine tasting at Chateau Margene, a boutique, micro-winery that produces luxury Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeaux blends. Yum! The tasting room at MCV Wines focuses on unique and interesting blends that revolve around Petite Syrah. This wonderfully dark and rich grape is smooth, elegant and delicious yet, bold, powerful and age-able. Stop by Stax Wine Bar & Bistro for a flight and a bite on the bay while relaxing by a romantic fire on a plush leather couch. Enjoy lunch or dinner from their Tapas Menu featuring charcuterie, Panini sandwiches, local oysters and more.
Secret Season Weddings and Proposals!
If you’re planning an engagement or nuptials, or want to plant the seed…wink-wink…Morro Rock is an unforgettable location to do just that, among other beaches, bluffs, inlets and marinas!
Morro Rock
Romance reaches new heights at the iconic Morro Rock, especially if you or your future someone is expecting a “big rock” for their engagement ring and want the perfect Insta location.The iconic Morro Rock is a classic landmark and is the final link in the Seven Sisters chain of volcanic mountains that stretch from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay.
Blufftop Wedding at Black Hill
The blufftop of Black Hill is the perfect location to say “I Do” with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Morro Rock! Black Hill is the second to last of nine volcanic plugs that lie between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay. You and your guests can hike to the top through Fleming’s Forest–a hillside of Monterey Pine trees. Once you reach the top at an elevation gain of 600 feet, you’ll be rewarded with a picture-perfect backdrop.
Here are two companies that can help create the perfect setting for your proposal or wedding on the beach, next to Morro Rock or any beach or bluff location in Morro Bay:
Toes-In-the-Sand Weddings
This company offers personal touches to create the perfect wedding ceremony, from elegant beach ceremonies to lavish Morro Bay State Park weddings. Toes-In-The-Sand provides destination-wedding packages for any size gathering to help the bride and groom celebrate today, tomorrow and forever.
Beach Butlerz
Let the professionals at Beach Butlerz plan and organize your proposal or wedding on your favorite Morro Bay beach! With several packages to choose from, Beach Butlerz will take care of everything for a truly romantic destination wedding-to-remember. They make it simple: just order a service online, arrive at your favorite beach and everything you need will be set up to perfection!
Additional Morro Bay Wedding Venues
Restaurants, hotels, boats, and chapels…there’s a place for every taste.
Private Reception at Windows on the Water
Situated in the heart of the Embarcadero, your guests will fall in love with the breathtaking view at Windows on the Water. The restaurant was designed to fully capture the view of the harbor with 18 large windows that provide a panoramic view of the bay from Morro Rock to the north, to Montaña de Oro in the south. Its picturesque location coupled with exquisitely prepared dishes make for a unique and elegant private reception for your big day. There are several fine restaurants with reception capabilities depending on the size.
Chablis Cruises
This 50-foot, two-story riverboat is the perfect setting to exchange vows as it graces the gentle waters of beautiful Morro Bay Harbor. Featuring spectacular panoramic windows and a rooftop deck, why not declare your love on the water?
The Papagallo II
As Morro Bay’s premier cruise yacht, this 72 Foot luxury motor yacht an ultimate event destination for any type of celebration, especially weddings. Experience superior service, impeccable cuisine and the serene ambiance of Morro Bay onboard the Papegallo II.
Coalesce Bookstore & Garden Wedding Chapel
A Morro Bay landmark since 1973, Coalesce Bookstore is the local store to find rare books and a great spot to proclaim your love, as this bookstore doubles as a charming wedding chapel. They will take care of everything from marriage licensing to catering a memorable reception. Licensed officiants are available to conduct your ceremony in the beautiful Garden Wedding Chapel or at any location in Morro Bay.
Inn at Morro Bay
The Inn at Morro Bay offers a beautiful waterfront setting for your wedding, especially if you pledge your undying love at the newly renovated Bay View Deck. Featuring a natural shale stone tile, the Bay View Deck is an unforgettable and romantic setting, offering a breathtaking backdrop of the Ocean and the Morro Rock.
