Summary
Exploring Half Moon Bay, California
You can guess the shape of Half Moon Bay from its name—a crescent-shaped piece of California coast with a nice little town in the middle. It’s more laid back than its southern counterpart, Santa Cruz, with a quiet ambiance and a rural feel. Moreover, Half Moon Bay is popular among families, outdoor enthusiasts, and locals enjoying a pleasant day’s drive. Additionally, it provides excellent opportunities for wine and food lovers.
Half Moon Bay weather is optimal in spring and fall. However, summer often brings fog, while winter can result in storms and high surf.
7 Great Things to Do
- Don’t miss this: If you’ve only got a day, downtown Half Moon Bay is ideal for a leisurely stroll. The five-block-long shopping area on Main Street is lined with shops, galleries, bookstores, a winery tasting room, and various restaurants. Don’t forget to admire the murals painted along the side streets.
- Beaches: The best spots for tide pooling are the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve (north) and Pescadero Beach (south).
- Active Outdoors: Enjoy a long hike on the Coastside Trail, which follows the ocean bluffs between Pillar Point Harbor and Poplar Avenue. If you prefer water activities, California Canoe and Kayak and Half Moon Bay Kayak Company offer kayak rentals, lessons, and tours. Sea Horse Ranch provides trail rides on the beach every day, except during storms—reservations aren’t required. Just visit wearing long pants and closed-toed shoes. Riders aged 5 and up are welcome, and you’ll find a horse suitable for every experience level.
- A Wild Time: From December through March, thousands of northern elephant seals haul out of the ocean onto the beach at Año Nuevo, just a few miles south of Half Moon Bay. Witness mothers giving birth, males battling for dominance, and pups learning to swim.
- Side Trip to Pescadero: Located just a few miles south off California Highway 1, this quaint downtown features a bakery known for its exceptional artichoke bread. The few shops offer delightful browsing opportunities.
- Family Fun: Kids enjoy the beach, tide pooling, and pony and train rides at Lemos Farm. Moreover, the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is one of the most family-friendly hotels, serving hot chocolate and S’Mores by their outdoor fireplaces while offering a variety of children’s activities.
- Cork and Bottle Days: Several times a year, La Nebbia Winery hosts its Barrel to Bottle Days. Bring clean bottles or purchase some at the winery, and they’ll fill them with premium wine at an affordable price. Located on CA Hwy 92 east of Half Moon Bay, their tasting room is open daily.
Annual Events
- Mavericks Surf Contest: Anytime during competition season (November through March), if the waves are large enough, the event commences with world-class surfers racing to the location.
- Pacific Coast Dream Machines, April: Witness vintage warbirds, unicycle drag racing, monster trucks, and various “dream machines” at this weekend festival.
- Farm+Fish+Flowers, July: This special day offers behind-the-scenes tours of local nurseries, wineries, and farms, many of which are typically closed to the public.
- Pumpkin Festival, October: Half Moon Bay hosts one of the area’s largest Halloween festivals, featuring a pumpkin championship and numerous activities.
Tips for Visiting
During popular events and pleasant weekend drives, you may encounter congested roads leading to Half Moon Bay. With limited routes available, it’s essential to maintain patience, keep your fuel tank filled, and prepare for bathroom breaks.
Where to Stay
Half Moon Bay boasts many nice hotels across various price ranges. If you prefer a homier feel, consider a vacation rental available via sites like VRBO.
For campers, Pelican Point RV Park at 1001 Miramontes Point Road is a great choice, as is Half Moon Bay State Beach.
Where Is Half Moon Bay?
The journey to Half Moon Bay can be just as enjoyable as the destination, with scenic drives from various locations. Specifically, Half Moon Bay is located 30 miles from San Francisco, 40 miles from San Jose, and 115 miles from Sacramento. For weekend trips from San Francisco or San Jose, take I-280 and CA Hwy 92 West, then enjoy a leisurely return drive via CA Hwy 1.
