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.
Things to Do in Los Osos & Baywood
Come experience Los Osos & Baywood like the locals.
Where to Stay in Los Osos & Baywood
Plan your stay at one of the many hotels or vacation rentals in Los Osos & Baywood.
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Charming Baywood CottageCharming Baywood CottageLos Osos
You can make a Charming Baywood Cottage vacation rental yours during your vacation to the Morro Bay area of California.
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The Bees Knees Fruit FarmThe Bees Knees Fruit FarmSan Luis Obispo
The Bees Knees Fruit Farm in San Luis Obispo is unlike any other lodging you will find in California, a country house with all the charm.
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Largest Ocean View HomeLargest Ocean View HomeLos Osos
Looking for the Largest Ocean View Home on the Morro Bay and Los Osos stretch of Highway 1? Then look no further!
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Rock Bottom RanchRock Bottom RanchSan Luis Obispo
Rock Bottom Ranch, a nature lovers’ retreat, is the perfect stopping place on Highway 1 between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Los Osos & Baywood Travel Videos
Events in Los Osos & Baywood
Plan your next roadtrip to Los Osos & Baywood around events and happenings.
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Adventures with Nature
The Central Coast State Parks Associations presents the Adventures with Nature series.
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Festival Mozaic: Fall Series
In May of 1970, a trio of music professors at the California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) came together to brainstorm the possibility of starting a summer music festival in beautiful…
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Mind Walks with the Central Coast State Parks Association
Our Mind Walks series offers lectures on topics of interest to residents of the Central Coast, including cultural history, natural history, and current issues. Stewardship travelers are invited to join…
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SLO Holiday Parade
The Annual Downtown SLO Holiday Parade has drawn thousands to downtown San Luis Obispo since 1976. Held on the first Friday in December, the parade has become a much-loved holiday tradition…
Travel Articles About Los Osos & Baywood
Read about why Los Osos & Baywood is the perfect California Highway 1 road trip for those seeking a special California beach town experience.
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Biking Los Osos and BaywoodBiking Los Osos and BaywoodLos Osos
Montana de Oro has some of the best mountain biking on the central coast, with multiple trails ranging from beginner to expert.
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Sea Pines Golf CourseSea Pines Golf CourseLos Osos
Sea Pines Golf Course is home to the Central Coast Golf Trail.
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Horseback RidingHorseback RidingOceano
Riding a horse amidst the beauty of coastal San Luis Obispo County can be a transforming experience. Get saddled up and discover a whole new perspective on our special stretch of Highway 1, from equestrian trails to vineyards.
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Baywood Park-Los Osos Farmers MarketBaywood Park-Los Osos Farmers MarketLos Osos
Although it takes up just one block, the Baywood/Los Osos Market is small but mighty.
Where to Eat in Los Osos & Baywood
Check out all the restaurants and good eats in Los Osos & Baywood.
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SubwaySubwayLos Osos
All your sandwich favorites plus salads and more are at Subway in Los Osos.
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Domino’sDomino’sLos Osos
Meat-lovers and vegetarians alike can find something delicious on the Domino's menu.
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Valley LiquorValley LiquorLos Osos
Tucked inside Valley Liquor is a deli offering delicious sandwiches, amazing burgers, breakfast burritos and more.
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Hong Kong Chinese RestaurantHong Kong Chinese RestaurantLos Osos
A long time favorite in Los Osos, Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant is always a great choice for lunch or dinner.
Travel Stories About Los Osos
Connect With Los Osos & Baywood
Official travel map and social media for Los Osos & Baywood.
More to Explore on Highway 1
Check out these other amazing places on the Highway 1 Road Trip in San Luis Obispo County.
Explore the Highway 1 Road Trip
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