Visiting the Coast after King's Canyon

Question

Hi all, We are visiting King's Canyon the first week of June. We've never been to the coast and would like to add a couple days for that before we fly home out of Fresno. We were thinking of somewhere between Monterey and Morro Bay, maybe Cambria? I guess the primary goal is relaxation, scenery, wildlife, some shops, good food. Thanks for any help!

Answer

Visiting the California coast after exploring King’s Canyon is a fantastic way to unwind and enjoy scenic views, wildlife, and charming towns. Since you’re considering the area between Monterey and Morro Bay, Cambria is a great choice for a couple of days of relaxation.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and options to consider:

Cambria: A quaint coastal town known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and relaxed atmosphere. The Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is perfect for easy strolls along the coast, and you might spot sea otters, harbor seals, and various seabirds.
Morro Bay: A small harbor town famous for Morro Rock. Offers kayaking, boating, and waterfront restaurants. Ideal for wildlife viewing, especially harbor seals and birdwatching.
Cayucos: Smaller and quieter than Cambria or Morro Bay, with a laid-back vibe and a classic pier. Great for a peaceful beach walk or casual dining.
Monterey/Carmel: If you prefer a bit more activity, Monterey offers Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and scenic 17-Mile Drive. Carmel is charming for boutique shopping, galleries, and fine dining.

Travel and logistics:

From King’s Canyon, driving to the coast will take around 4–5 hours depending on your exact starting point and traffic. Plan to break up the drive if desired, perhaps with a stop in Paso Robles for wine tasting or a meal.
Cambria is centrally located between Monterey and Morro Bay, making it an excellent base for exploring nearby coastal spots without changing accommodations each day.
For wildlife viewing, consider visiting nearby state parks like Hearst San Simeon State Park or Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, especially if you choose Cambria as your base.

Dining and relaxation:

Cambria has several highly-rated restaurants with ocean views, such as local seafood spots or charming bistros downtown.
Morro Bay offers casual waterfront dining, often with fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.
Both areas provide easy access to small art galleries, local shops, and scenic overlooks, perfect for a low-key coastal experience.

Overall, for a balance of relaxation, scenery, wildlife, and good food, Cambria or Morro Bay are excellent choices for a 2-day coastal extension before returning to Fresno for your flight.

Visiting the Coast after King's Canyon

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