Cambria and Morro Bay Named 'Overlooked' California Travel Destinations

Two Central Coast towns in San Luis Obispo County make list of underappreciated Pacific West Coast spots worth visiting.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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According to a new listing from WorldAtlas, the California coastal towns of Cambria and Morro Bay have been named as 'overlooked' travel destinations along the Pacific West Coast, despite being home to well-known landmarks like Hearst Castle and Morro Rock. The listing highlights the towns' natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and charming small-town vibes as reasons they deserve more attention from travelers.

Why it matters

This recognition from WorldAtlas could help drive more tourism and economic activity to these Central Coast communities, which have historically been overshadowed by larger, more famous destinations in California. As the state continues to recover from the impacts of the pandemic, promoting lesser-known but equally appealing towns like Cambria and Morro Bay could provide a boost to their local businesses and residents.

The details

The WorldAtlas listing praises Cambria for its 'fun and adventure,' including Moonstone Beach, the downtown area, and nearby Hearst Castle. For Morro Bay, the article highlights the iconic Morro Rock, as well as the town's wildlife, pier, and historic businesses like the 71-year-old Shell Shop. Both towns are described as offering visitors a chance to experience the 'wild America' of the Pacific Coast, with rugged beaches, sea stacks, and coastal forests.

  • The WorldAtlas list of 'overlooked' Pacific West Coast travel destinations was published on February 15, 2026.

The players

WorldAtlas

An online reference and travel guide that recently published a list of nine 'overlooked towns worth visiting' along the Pacific West Coast, including Cambria and Morro Bay in California.

Cambria

A small coastal town of about 6,000 residents in San Luis Obispo County, California, known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Hearst Castle.

Morro Bay

A coastal city in San Luis Obispo County, California, famous for the iconic Morro Rock, as well as its wildlife, pier, and historic businesses like the 71-year-old Shell Shop.

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The takeaway

This recognition of Cambria and Morro Bay as 'overlooked' but worthy travel destinations along the Pacific Coast could help drive more tourism and economic activity to these charming Central Coast communities, which have long been overshadowed by larger, more famous California destinations. As the state recovers from the pandemic, promoting these lesser-known but equally appealing towns could provide a much-needed boost to their local businesses and residents.