Itinerary - Morro Bay State Park and Hearst Castle Tour

Join us in 2012 for the Savor the Central Coast Event


Day 1

The excursion begins at 2pm at our secluded base camp overlooking the National Estuary in Morro Bay State Park. That afternoon, we will take a tour of the Morro Bay Nature History Museum to learn more about the area's natural resources. After the tour we will enjoy ocean view dining at one of Morro Bay's most popular restaurants. We'll return to our base camp to meet with park staff for an overview of our schedule of activities at Morro Bay and Hearst Castle. Afterwards, we will hike along the estuary to observe its abundant wildlife as the sun sets into the glowing pacific. After our hike, we'll gather around the evening campfire to savor warm drinks and delectable desserts.

Day 2

After waking up and preparing for our day in the field, we will head to the Inn at Morro Bay for hearty breakfast buffet. Once we arrive at the project site, park biologists will provide further information and direct us on this important conservation effort to restore Morro Bay's unique ecosystems. The project will wrap up by early afternoon at which time we will take a bike ride down the Morro Bay Embarcadero. There will be many wonderful artisan shops to visit along the way. That evening we will head to Downtown San Luis Obispo to experience its vibrant Farmer's Market. You will have the opportunity to purchase from a number of savory food and art vendors.

Day 3

Today we will be volunteering at the historic Hearst Castle. After our volunteer work, we'll tour this remarkable architectural jewel, filled with rare paintings and artifacts. For lunch we will go to the cozy and historic seaside town of San Simeon just down from Hearst Castle to dine within yards of the old school house and views of the ocean. From there we will head north on world famous Highway One. After a beautiful drive up the coast we will visit one of the largest colonies of Elephant Seals in America. You will be amazed at their size and number. After dinner at the quaint but popular Taco Temple we will enjoy musical entertainment at one of Morro Bay's casual gathering spots.

Day 4

This morning we will have a choice of kayaking across the bay to explore the isolated Morro Bay Strand or gaze into the bay's undersea life by taking a trip in a glass-sided boat. We will gather at the Embarcadero for lunch and visit a number of the local shops. From there you can either go on a commercially operated wine country tour or golf on the beautiful course at Morro Bay. The course has 6360 yards of tree lined fairways and ocean views, all inside Morro Bay State Park and overlooking the bay. You also have the option of creating your own itinerary for the afternoon. Our guides will direct you to all of the facsinating points of interest in Morro Bay.

Day 5

After breakfast we will break camp and head out to photograph the spectacular cliffs and coastlines in nearby Montana de Oro State Park. There are amazing sink holes and beautiful beaches where we can relax and take in the sites.

After enjoying our last hike together we'll gather for a Farewell Ceremony and and reflect upon our shared experiences on this extraordinary volunteer vacation.

Check Morro Bay and Hearst Castle dates and rates.

Thank you for helping to preserve Morro Bay and the historic Hearst Castle.