The 20 Best Things to Do in Half Moon Bay, CA
Half Moon Bay is a coastal city in California, located about 25 miles south of San Francisco and about 35 miles north of San Jose. The city has a population of about 11,000 people. According to Visit Half Moon Bay, Half Moon Bay was founded in the 1840s and incorporated in 1959. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and coastal hiking trails. The main industries in the city are tourism and agriculture. Half Moon Bay is home to several large pumpkin farms and hosts the annual Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival, which attracts over 150,000 visitors each year and is one of the largest pumpkin festivals in the world.
Half Moon Bay is the place for you if you’re looking for a laid-back California coastal town to explore. With its charming downtown area, beautiful beaches, and an array of delicious restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this small seaside town. Here are 20 of the best things to do in Half Moon Bay.
20. Surf at Pillar Point Bluff
Pillar Point is a small community in San Mateo County, California. The area is renowned for its dramatic views and rugged coastline, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, whales, and sea lions. Pillar Point is also home to the world-famous Half Moon Bay Surf Club, which attracts surfers worldwide. Visitors to Pillar Point can enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking or relax and enjoy the incredible views.
19. Visit Spanish Town
Spanish Town is a small town located in the heart of California. Founded in 1842, the town is home to a diverse population of residents. The town is known for its beautiful weather, friendly residents, and lively community events. Spanish Town is also home to several businesses, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and a hotel. There are several parks in the town and a public pool and tennis courts.
18. Go Hiking at Montara Mountain
Montara Mountain is a beautiful spot in California that is perfect for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors. The mountain has a rich history, and there are many interesting things to see and do in the area. Montara Mountain is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace. There are plenty of trails to explore, and the views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking.
17. View Ducks at Mac Dutra Park
Mac Dutra Park is a small city park located in the heart of downtown. The park is home to various trees, shrubs, flowers, a playground, and a small pond. The pond is a popular spot for ducks and other waterfowl, and the trees provide shade and shelter for picnickers and pedestrians. The park is also a popular spot for dog-walking, and the grassy areas are perfect for games of fetch. In addition to its natural beauty, Mac Dutra Park is also a great place to people-watch. On any given day, you can see joggers, strolling couples, and children playing in the playground.
16. Explore Rancho Corral de Tierra
Those looking for a beautiful and secluded place to call home will find Rancho Corral de Tierra the perfect location. According to NPS, this unincorporated community is located in San Mateo County, just south of Half Moon Bay. Though it is only a short drive from the city, Rancho Corral de Tierra feels like a world away. The area is known for its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. However, Rancho Corral de Tierra is more than just a pretty place; it is also a welcoming and friendly community. Residents here enjoy a tight-knit neighborhood feel, and there are plenty of chances to get involved in local events and activities.
15. Enjoy Wine Tasting at Barterra Winery
Barterra Winery is a hidden gem in the heart of California’s wine country. According to the San Francisco Peninsula, the family-owned and operated winery produces quality wines that have earned numerous awards and accolades. In addition to its impressive wines, Barterra is also known for its stunning views of the surrounding hillsides and valleys. Visitors to the winery can enjoy a tour of the facility, followed by a tasting of the latest wines. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to answer questions and make recommendations.
14. Hike at Gray Whale Cove Trail
The Gray Whale Cove Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hike in San Mateo County, CA. The trailhead is located at the north end of the parking lot for Gray Whale Cove State Beach. The trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as it winds along the coastline. There are also some small tide pools to explore, and the beach is perfect for a picnic or a swim. According to the Outbound, the Gray Whale Cove Trail is a moderate hike, and it is recommended that hikers wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.
13. Enjoy a Picnic at Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park
Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park is located in Los Gatos, California, and is known for its beautiful hiking trails. The park offers stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Francisco Bay Area. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, horseback riding, and camping at the park. In addition, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and birds of prey. For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park got you covered.
12. Visit Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Moss Beach
The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a beautiful piece of coastline south of San Francisco. The reserve stretches for over three miles and is home to various plant and animal life. Visitors can explore tide pools, hike through redwood forests, and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The reserve is also a popular spot for whale watching, as Gray whales often migrate along the coast. In addition, the reserve is home to various rare and endangered species, making it a valuable site for conservation.
11. Visit Ano Nuevo States Park
According to That’s My Park, Ano Nuevo State Park is located in San Mateo County. The park is home to various animals, including elephant seals, sea lions, and bird species. Visitors can participate in guided walks and talks led by park staff or explore the area independently. The park also offers ranger-led programs, including tide pool walks and night hikes. Ano Nuevo State Park is a great place to enjoy the California coast.
10. Explore the Pescadero’s Farms and Coastal Delights
Pescadero town is home to several farms and a popular destination for tourists visiting the coast. The farms in Pescadero grow various crops, including strawberries, pumpkins, and corn. The town is also home to several dairy farms producing milk and cheese. In addition to the farms, Pescadero is also home to several coastal delights. The town has a sandy beach and a pier where visitors can fish or enjoy the view. The area also has several hiking trails, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
9. Swim at Ocean Lawn
Ocean Lawn is a small town located on the coast of California. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed laid-back atmosphere. Visitors to Ocean Lawn can enjoy sunbathing on the beach, swimming in the ocean, or hiking in the nearby hills. The town also has several shops and restaurants and a lively nightlife scene. Ocean Lawn is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a place to relax or party.
8. Attend the Half Moon Bay Golf Courses
Located just south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay Golf Links is a world-renowned golf destination featuring two championship courses – Ocean Course and Old Course. According to Half Moon Bay Golf, The Ocean Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is a challenging 18-hole course that hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The Old Course, meanwhile, is a more traditional layout that winds its way through the rolling hills of Half Moon Bay. Both courses are impeccably maintained and offer a unique and memorable golf experience. In addition to the two championship courses, Half Moon Bay Golf Links also features a 9-hole executive course, perfect for those looking to get in a quick round.
7. Have a Picnic at Lemos Farm
In the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, Lemos Farm is a family-run farm that has operated for over 100 years. The farm produces a variety of crops, including strawberries, pumpkins, and Christmas trees. In addition to being a working farm, Lemos Farm is also a popular destination for hayrides, tractor rides, and picnicking. Visitors can also purchase fresh produce, honey, and other items from the on-site farm store.
6. Visit Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
Pigeon Point Light Station is a state historic park located in California. The light station is a working lighthouse built in 1872 and is still in operation today. The light station sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers stunning coast views. Visitors can tour the light station and learn about its history or enjoy the views from the overlook. The light station also offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and beachcombing. For those looking for a unique experience, the light station also offers overnight stays in the Lighthouse Keepers’ Quarters.
5. Have a Picnic Lunch at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is a beautiful and serene location perfect for a nature hike or picnic lunch. The preserve is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains and features old-growth redwoods, Douglas firs, and madrones. The preserve also has miles of wonderful hiking trails with oak groves, creeks, and wildflowers. A visit to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve will surely be a memorable experience for the whole family.
4. You can’t miss Surfing at Mavericks
According to SurferToday, Mavericks is a world-famous surf break located just outside of Half Moon Bay. The wave is created by a deep underwater canyon that funnels swells towards the shore, resulting in waves reaching up to 25 feet in height. Mavericks attract top surfers from all over the world, and its big waves have been the site of numerous surfing competitions. In addition to being a mecca for surfers, Mavericks is also known for its scenic beauty, with rocky cliffs and crashing waves providing a dramatic backdrop for visitors.
3. Explore the California Coastal Trail
The California Coastal Trail is a proposed 3000-mile trail that would stretch along the entire length of the California coast, from the Oregon border to the Mexican border. The trail would provide visitors with unparalleled access to the state’s coastline and offer various activities for hikers, bicyclists, and nature lovers alike. In addition to its recreational value, the trail would also act as an important link between coastal communities, providing an alternative to driving on congested highways. The trail is still in the early stages of development, but when completed, it will be one of the most impressive and ambitious trails in the world.
2. Visit the Pillar Point Harbor
Pillar Point Harbor is a protected harbor used for recreation, commercial fishing, and as a port of call for ships. The harbor is also home to several businesses, including a fish market, restaurants, and charter boats. Pillar Point Harbor is also the site of the annual Mavericks surf competition. The contest is held in the winter when huge waves form offshore. The waves at Pillar Point are some of the biggest in the world, and the contest attracts surfers from all over the globe. Every year, the Mavericks competition raises the profile of Pillar Point Harbor and brings new visitors to Half Moon Bay.
1. Explore the Half Moon Bay State Beach
Half Moon Bay State Beach is one of the most beautiful places in California. It is located on the coast, just south of San Francisco. The beach is two miles long and has a wide variety of activities to keep visitors entertained. Tide pools are to explore, cliffs to climb, and waves to body surf. The sand is soft and white, and the water is clean and clear. Half Moon Bay State Beach is the perfect place to spend a day in the sun with friends or family.
Final Thoughts
Half Moon Bay is a beautiful place to visit, and there are plenty of things to do. Whether looking for a fun day out with the family or a romantic weekend getaway, this destination has something for everyone.
