Climbable Sculptures on the Morro Bay Embarcadero
Quick Summary: Strolling along the Embarcadero in Morro Bay? Be sure to stop by Harbor Walk Plaza to experience The Octopus’s Zen Garden. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, this outdoor art installation features colorful mosaics, climbable sculptures for kids, and gorgeous harbor views.
When taking a walk along the Embarcadero in Morro Bay, discovering unique coastal public art is always a highlight.
On my recent visit, I spent time exploring The Octopus’s Zen Garden, a captivating outdoor installation located right outside the Under the Sea Gallery.
Designed and maintained by the gallery, this installation is an engaging stop that brings extra magic to the waterfront.
🐙 Sculptures by Peter Hazel: Taki & Molly
The standout stars of the installation are two large-scale, concrete-and-steel sculptures created by world-renowned sculptor Peter Hazel:
- Taki the Giant Octopus: An incredible, vibrant octopus sculpture covered in detailed mosaic work.
- Molly the Sea Otter: A whimsical companion piece honoring one of Morro Bay’s most famous local marine animals.
What makes these pieces so wonderful for families is that they are crafted specifically as climbable art pieces for children.
Kids can play directly on the sculptures, making art an interactive and tactile experience rather than something just to view from afar!
✨ Mosaics, Changing Lights & Harbor Views
The installation is beautiful for visitors of all ages.
Intricate mosaic tilework catches the coastal sunlight during the day, and as evening approaches, built-in lights change colors to illuminate the sculptures against the harbor backdrop.
Because it sits right along the waterfront, you get stunning views of the boats and bay while relaxing around the art space.
It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it an easy, free addition to your Embarcadero itinerary.
📍 Visiting Details:
- Location: HarborWalk Plaza (near Under the Sea Gallery), Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA.
- Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.
- Cost: Free to view, climb, and take photos!
- Pro Tip: Swing by near dusk to see the mosaic tiles glow as the color-changing lights turn on!
🧳 More from Valerie Was Here
San Luis Obispo Travel 🚙
- Avila Beach in the Fall
- Avila Park (Pirate Park)
- Courtyard by Marriott
- Dinosaur Caves Park – Pismo Beach
- El Morro Elfin Forest – Los Osos
- Morro Rock Sunset
- Octopus’s Zen Garden Morro Bay
🍽️ More from Mama Likes to Cook
San Luis Obispo Farm Stands 🍎
San Luis Obispo Food and Drinks 🌞
- Claiborne and Churchill Winery – SLO
- Hula Hut – Avila Beach
- Jack Ranch Cafe – Cholame
- Margie’s Diner – Paso Robles
- Marriott Courtyard – SLO
- Sun N Buns Bakery Morro Bay
Where will you go for your next adventure?
