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CA Highway 1 – Hidden Gems for Outdoor Adventurers and Nature Lovers

Surrounded by the south shore of Morro Bay and filled with forests, preserves and outdoor adventure, nature lovers are drawn to the quaint seaside towns of Los Osos and Baywood Park.

Very much off the beaten tourist path, Los Osos sits on the southern tidal estuary of Morro Bay, with a glassy bay, and an Eden of feathered wildlife.

With its mild climate and friendly population of about 15,000, Los Osos lives up to its positive reputation offering a great climate perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, golfing, and endless hiking, biking and tide pooling.

 

The bayside neighborhood of Baywood Park has its own identity as a picturesque park right on what locals refer to as the “back bay” that is surrounded by wooded stands of eucalyptus trees.

Just a stone’s throw from Montana de Oro State Park, Morro Bay State Park, and the Morro Bay Bird Sanctuary, Los Osos and Baywood Park is an ideal sanctuary for humans, too, offering an ideal base camp for excursions along the Central Coast.

Once you visit, you soon understand why the gentle creator of Gumby and Poky, the much-revered Arthur Clokey, spent his final years here. Check out this video.

Los Osos and Baywood Park Must-See Getaway

Enter win the Must-See Getaway Contest. Just fill out this form and you could be selected to win two night lodging at one of the town’s quaint hotels, craft beer tasting and dining at the Baywood Ale House, and a spectacular kayak tour for two.

Lodging Options

Stay local and explore miles of secluded coastline, go hiking, paddling, biking, or venture out and about SLO County for world class wine tasting, visiting Hearst Castle, music events, and more.

 

Los Osos /Baywood always offers a peaceful, quiet place to end your day. Check out The Sea Pine Lodge, The Baywood Inn and the Back Bay Inn.

There are also twelve amazing vacation rentals to enjoy featuring breathtaking vistas from dog-friendly beachfront cottages, large ocean view homes, and some truly unique settings to make your stay unforgettable.

Must-See Rural Road Trip Map: Los Osos and Baywood Park

There are must-see spots along the way to become immersed in Los Osos and Baywood Park, as well as the 9 other quaint towns that make up the H1DR.
Discovering the hidden gems and local favorites along the route has become so popular by visitors that 10 rural road trip loops are featured on the website, making it easy to navigate by car.

Paul Pinkerton

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