Morro Bay Bird Festival

Set against the stunning backdrop of California’s Central Coast, the Morro Bay Bird Festival is an annual celebration of birds, nature, and the unique ecosystems that make this region so special. Recognized as a Globally Important Bird Area and designated a State and National Estuary, Morro Bay lies along the Pacific Flyway and is home to one of the top five Audubon Christmas Bird Counts in the nation.

Each winter, more than 200 bird species typically migrate to the Central Coast. The 2026 festival will offer over 230 events designed to connect people of all experience levels with nature and deepen their understanding of the critical conservation and environmental issues impacting this unique coastal region. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a stunning variety of habitats—from open ocean and tidal estuary to coastal dunes, oak woodlands, riparian corridors, freshwater wetlands, and the sweeping grasslands of the Carrizo Plain.

Highlights of the 2026 festival include:

• Keynote speakers: Scott Weidensaul and Dorian Anderson
• Expert-led field trips to diverse habitats
• In-depth master classes and workshops with leading ornithologists
• Pelagic and bay cruises
• Birding by kayak, bicycle birding, lazy birding
• Special programming for photographers and videographers
• Special sessions for beginners, youth, and those requiring ADA-accessible options
• Festival Marketplace featuring optics vendors and bird-themed merchandise
• Movie night screening: The Big Year

Morro Bay is more than just a birder’s paradise—it’s a warm and welcoming coastal community where friendly locals, charming shops, scenic trails, and acclaimed restaurants and wineries create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re new to birding or a seasoned expert, you’ll feel right at home at the Morro Bay Bird Festival.

Registration opens at 8:00 AM PST on Saturday, November 1, 2025.

Events fill quickly, so mark your calendar and plan to register early.

Visit www.morrobaybirdfestival.org for full details.

We look forward to welcoming you to Morro Bay—where world-class birding meets small-town hospitality.