Estero Bay (California) facts for kids

Estero Bay is a beautiful bay found on the Pacific Coast of central California. It's located in San Luis Obispo County. This bay stretches for about 15 miles (24 km) from its southern tip at Point Buchon and Montana de Oro State Park. To the north, it reaches Point Estero, which is about 5 miles (8 km) northwest of Cayucos. The bay curves inward about 5 miles (8 km) from the California coastline.

A wide view of Estero Bay in California. You can see the town of Cayucos on the left, Morro Bay and Morro Rock in the middle, and Point Buchon/Montana de Oro State Park on the right.

A view from Hazard Peak looking down at Estero Bay. You can see Morro Rock, the Morro Bay Estuary, and the towns of Morro Bay and Cayucos. This photo was taken in 2011.

This picture shows the northern part of Estero Bay, including Morro Rock and the entrance to Morro Bay. It's looking west from Black Hill.

Wildlife and Nature in Estero Bay

Estero Bay is home to some special animals and plants. It's a great place to learn about nature.

The Morro Bay Kangaroo Rat

One unique animal here is the Morro Bay kangaroo rat (Dipodomys heermanni morroensis). This small rodent lives only in the sandy areas around Morro Bay. It is a very rare animal. In fact, it is listed as an endangered species. This means it is at a high risk of disappearing forever. Scientists are working hard to protect its home.

Morro Bay: A Central Hub

Morro Bay is a town located right in the middle of Estero Bay. It's a key spot for both people and wildlife.

Fun Places to Visit in Estero Bay

There are many cool towns and parks along the shores of Estero Bay. They offer great places for recreation and exploring nature.

Towns Along the Bay

Some of the towns you can visit on the bay include:

• Morro Bay
• Baywood Park-Los Osos
• Cayucos

Beaches and Parks to Explore

You can find several beautiful beaches and parks along the bay's shore. They are perfect for outdoor activities.

• Morro Strand State Beach: This is a lovely beach where you can walk, play, and enjoy the ocean views.
• Morro Bay State Park: This park offers many activities. You can go hiking, birdwatching, or even visit the museum.
• El Moro Elfin Forest Preserve: This special preserve is 90 acres (36 hectares) big. It's home to 'pygmy oaks,' which are actually Coast live oak trees (Quercus agrifolia). These trees are much smaller here than usual. You can walk on an oval wooden path that goes around the forest. There are also viewing platforms to help you see everything. This preserve is located on the southeastern side of Estero Bay in Los Osos.

A wide view from Black Hill. You can see Estero Bay (across the sandspit), Morro Bay (closer to the sandspit), Los Osos, Baywood Park, Chorro Valley, and Hollister Peak.