Half Moon Bay, CA Travel Guide

Situated on the Pacific Coast, approximately 30 miles south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a California coastal gem well known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, quaint downtown, and scenic coastal views–making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing getaway.  A walk through the center of town is like going back to yesteryear, but don’t let the vintage facade fool you, it’s home to many delightful restaurants and unique shops that can cater to just about any interest.

Known for its picturesque beauty and natural resources, such as the Half Moon Bay State Beach, it offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, surfing, fishing, and camping. The area is also home to several nature preserves, including the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, which offers visitors an opportunity to explore the unique marine life and ecosystems of the California coastline.

Half Moon Bay has a rich agricultural history, with numerous family-owned farms and pumpkin patches. The town also hosts an annual Art & Pumpkin Festival, which draws visitors from around the world to see the giant pumpkins on display, sample pumpkin-themed foods, and enjoy live entertainment.

In addition to its natural beauty and agricultural heritage, Half Moon Bay has a thriving downtown area with numerous restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. The town also has a strong sense of community, with several local events and festivals throughout the year that bring residents together to celebrate their unique culture and traditions.

For a quick overview of Half Moon Bay's top activities and attractions, go to our Top 10+ Activities in Half Moon Bay page.

  • Top 10 Things To Do
  • Top Attractions
  • Top Events
  • Advisories

Extreme Fire Danger

Please be safe… August 2020 saw some of the biggest wildfires in California’s history. Massive losses of forest acreage, homes and businesses. And, unfortunately, we are just now entering the peak fire season. Please be...

Family Favorite Activities

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Coastside History Museum

The Half Moon Bay Coastside History Museum is a small museum located in Half Moon Bay, California, dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Half Moon Bay Coastside region. The museum’s exhibits showcase the...

Places to Eat

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Moss Beach Distillery

Located just a few miles north of Half Moon Bay, the Moss Beach Distillery is a historic restaurant and bar located on the coast of Moss Beach, CA. Originally constructed in 1927 as a speakeasy during the prohibition era, it was...

Places to Stay

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Mill Rose Inn

Downtown Half Moon Bay — The Victorian-style boutique Inn Is flanked by gardens featuring...

Wedding Venues

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Half Moon Bay Wedding Venues

A Half Moon Bay wedding location should reflect the unique beauty and love of your relationship. Whether you’re looking for an elegant wedding with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop or a traditional church ceremony, Half...