Los Osos & Baywood

Los Osos is home to the majestic Montaña de Oro State Park. A geologist and/or naturalist’s playground, Montaña de Oro is defined by its rugged cliffs, tucked-away sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, with spectacular scenery produced through millions of years of volcanic activity, plate tectonics and erosion. Montaña de Oro is perfect for backpackers seeking solitude along quiet trails. Other trails include those for mountain biking and horseback riding. Spooner’s Cove, a beloved Montaña de Oro beach, is ideal for get-togethers, families, or sunbathing, with a seasonal stream flowing to the ocean, as well as restrooms, picnic facilities and parking.

The peaceful area of the Morro Bay Estuary that fronts Los Osos-Baywood Park offers ideal kayaking conditions. Home to 250 species of birds and a favorite destination for avid birders, the back bay offers quiet waters and a new perspective on the Central Coast, especially at sunset. Many local companies offer equipment rental, including the Kayak Shack. For tours, Central Coast Outdoors leads kayakers for half-day and full-day itineraries around the back bay, and can even add picnics or California beach-style grilled dinners upon request.

Looking for a unique hike? Walk among itty-bitty beauties at the Elfin Forest.  This pygmy oak forest features trees stunted by natural causes to heights between just four and twenty feet. A one-mile boardwalk leads visitors between the oaks and includes multiple trailheads, and provides clearance for panoramic views of the Morro Bay Estuary and nearby mountains, as well as lookout points with prime vistas for viewing wildlife. Interpretive signs share information about notable plant life within the forest, including coastal brackish marsh, riparian woodland fringe,maritime chaparral, coastal dune scrub, oak and manzanita complex, and of course the pygmy oaks themselves. Don’t miss docent-led nature walks in the forest focusing on different topics every second Sunday and third Saturday of the month.