MORRO BAY

• USMJK
• Latitude: 35.3616
• Longitude: -120.852
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Morro Bay is a charming coastal city located in San Luis Obispo County, California, United States. It is known for its picturesque setting and the notable marine landmark, Morro Rock—a volcanic plug rising 576 feet above the harbor.

Port Description:

• Location:

  • Latitude: 35.367° N
  • Longitude: 120.850° W

• Type:

  • Harbor primarily used for fishing, recreational boating, and small-scale commercial activities.

• Harbor Features:

  • Morro Rock: A significant navigational marker at the harbor's entrance.
  • Embarcadero: The waterfront street lined with shops, restaurants, and marine activities.
  • Morro Bay State Park Marina: Provides slip rentals and is a hub for leisure boating activities.

Port Specifications:

1. Navigational Depth:

   • Entrance Channel: Depth varies but is generally around 20 feet (6 meters) mean low water.
   • Inside Harbor: Depths within the harbor generally range between 10-16 feet (3-5 meters).

2. Berthing:

   • Can accommodate vessels including fishing boats, yachts, and smaller commercial vessels.
   • Morro Bay State Park Marina: Features several berths and amenities for watercraft.
   • Harbor Facilities: Provide mooring options and transient docks for visiting vessels.

3. Pilotage:

   • Not compulsory but recommended for unfamiliar large or deep-draft vessels due to the harbor’s shifting sands and tides.

4. Tidal Range:

   • Tidal variations can be significant, ranging from 2 to 6 feet.

5. Weather Conditions:

   • Predominantly mild coastal weather.
   • Fog is common in summers; winter months can bring sporadic storms and higher waves.

6. Amenities:

   • Access to fuel docks.
   • Marine repair services.
   • Freshwater and sanitary pump-out stations.
   • Waste disposal and recycling facilities.

Usage:

• Commercial Fishing: The harbor supports a thriving commercial fishing industry focusing on species like salmon, crab, and rockfish.
• Recreational Boating: Popular for kayaking, sailing, and small boating activities.
• Tourism: Provides harbor tours, whale watching, and is a key attraction of the city known for its scenic beauty and marine life.

Environmental Considerations:

• Efforts in place to protect local wildlife, including marine sanctuaries and preservation of coastal habitats.
• Morro Bay is part of both the Morro Bay State Marine Recreational Management Area and the Morro Bay State Marine Reserve, emphasizing conservation practices.

Access:

• By Road: Easily accessible via California State Route 1.
• By Air: Closest major airport is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, approximately 20 miles away.

Morro Bay offers a unique blend of commercial activity, recreational use, and environmental stewardship, making it a vital and picturesque marine port in California.