Located on the central coast of California, Morro Bay was named in 1542 by Portuguese navigator Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. The town’s most notable feature is Morro Rock. The rock is a 576 foot high volcanic plug and a preserve to the endangered peregrine falcon. The bay itself is only passable to relatively small boats due to a large, natural sandspit. The US Coast Guard believes the harbor to be one of the most dangerous in the nation. A historic fishing village and home to a large commercial fishing fleet, the seafood is always fresh in area restaurants. The natural beauty and sunny, mild climate makes this town a popular vacation destination.