Page 53 - SLO Visitors Guide Fall 2025

slovisitorsguide.com FALL 2025 53
Morro Bay
Across the road from State Park campground entrance on State Park Rd
(805) 772-1465
BaysideCafe.com
Scan this QR code to
see our menu online
Open for lunch daily,
Dinner Thu - Sun
A central coast favorite in Morro Bay
BAYSIDE CAFE at the marina
Cruise for up to four people, with
a prix fixe three-course meal.
Guests can book custom add-on
services such as flowers, char-
cuterie, and even a message in a
bottle. A pre-arranged message is
written on parchment and placed
in a clear, corked wine bottle that
mysteriously appears in the water
for guests to find.
Although the cruises can
be very romantic, especially at
sunset, children and pets are
also welcome aboard. Stefano
has witnessed proposals, hosted
weddings, anniversaries, gradu-
ations, birthdays, and rowed for
ash scatterings. Gondola cruises
are perfect for special occasions
or just a great way to get out and
enjoy the ocean air to create a
lasting memory.
Guests may also bring picnics
and alcohol on board. Stefano
recommends neighboring busi-
nesses for those who want to pur-
chase items just before boarding.
Wine from Absolution Cellars
and a Champagne/chocolate
pairing from Kickers are popular
items to bring along.
Anytime is the best time for a
gondola cruise
Stefano indicates the fall is an
ideal time for a cruise, “During
the fall season, there tends to be
less wind and fog, not to mention
the sun sets earlier. Book a cruise,
come out, and have some fun with
us! If you have any special needs or
want to arrange surprises, just let us
know, and we will make all the ar-
rangements. We can even arrange a
romantic serenade by the gondolier.”
Stefano is already thinking ahead
to winter when he will offer cookies
and hot chocolate for the season and
plans to have a gondola decorated
with lights for the annual Christmas
boat parade.
People are fascinated by the
beauty and history of Venetian
gondolas. The boats can be deco-
rated and rented as props for parties
or other events that don’t involve
launching. Each boat has a unique
story that generates good conversa-
tions.
Central Coast Gondola is located
at 833 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. For
more information, visit centralcoast-
gondola.com or call (805) 363-4363.
—Lisa Pretty